Do I Need to Go to Singapore in Person to Register a Company? A Comprehensive Guide to the Truth

Do You Really Need to Be Physically Present in Singapore to Register a Company? A Comprehensive Analysis

In recent years, with the acceleration of globalization and the increasing frequency of cross-border business activities, more and more Chinese entrepreneurs and investors have turned their attention to the Southeast Asian market. As a regional financial and business hub, Singapore has become one of the preferred destinations for companies looking to expand overseas, thanks to its stable environment, robust legal system, favorable tax policies, and efficient business ecosystem.

However, for entrepreneurs new to the Singaporean market, a common question arises Is it really necessary to be physically present in Singapore to register a company?

I. Current Trends and Developments in Company Registration in Singapore

According to the latest data released by the Accounting and Corporate Regulatory Authority ACRA, the number of newly registered businesses in Singapore increased by more than 12% year-on-year in 2025. Notably, the proportion of investors from mainland China has been steadily rising. Among these new businesses, many founders have never actually visited Singapore in person.

This trend is largely driven by Singapore’s push toward digital governance. As early as 2017, ACRA launched the BizFile+ online system, enabling the full digitization of company registration, changes, and annual reporting processes. This means that, as long as the applicant has valid identification and the necessary documents, the entire registration process can be completed remotely through authorized agents or professional service providers, without the need to be present in Singapore.

Additionally, the Monetary Authority of Singapore MAS and Enterprise Singapore ESDC have continuously optimized the business environment by streamlining procedures for foreign investors and promoting technologies such as remote banking, electronic signatures, and online notarization. These measures have significantly lowered the barriers for international investors entering the market.

II. Feasibility of Remote Company Registration in Singapore

Currently, there are two main ways to register a company in Singapore in person or through an authorized agent remotely. For most Chinese investors, the latter is clearly a more efficient and cost-effective option.

1. Legal Feasibility

According to the Singapore Companies Act, there is no legal requirement for shareholders or directors to be physically present during the registration process. As long as valid identification documents such as a passport, proof of address, and draft copies of the company’s constitution are provided and submitted through a certified agent to ACRA, the registration can be completed remotely.

Singapore allows non-residents to serve as company directors, but it requires that at least one director be a local resident - either a Singapore citizen, permanent resident, or a foreigner holding an Employment Pass. While this regulation introduces a certain level of complexity for fully remote operations, it does not prevent the registration from being completed remotely. Many professional service providers offer nominee director services, enabling investors to meet this legal requirement without being present in Singapore.

2. Operational Convenience

In practice, most Chinese investors choose to work with professional registration agencies or accounting firms to handle the entire process. These firms typically have extensive local experience and can assist clients in preparing documents, applying for company names, submitting applications, and even opening bank accounts.

For example, a well-known Singapore-based registration service provider clearly states on its official website We offer remote registration services to clients around the world. You don’t need to be present in Singapore - the entire process can be completed within 3-5 business days. Remote registration also supports the use of electronic signature platforms such as DocuSign, enhancing both convenience and compliance.

III. Key Considerations for Remote Registration

Although remote registration is highly feasible, there are several important factors to keep in mind to ensure a smooth process

1. Complete and Accurate Documentation

Although physical presence is not required, all necessary documents must be complete and accurate. These typically include

Identity documents e.g., passport for shareholders and directors

Proof of address e.g., utility bills or bank statements

Draft company constitution

Registered office address can be provided by the agent

Director appointment letter if using a nominee director

2. Choosing a Reliable Agent

Since remote registration relies heavily on third-party agencies, selecting a professional, reputable, and certified service provider is crucial. It is advisable to choose a firm with ACRA accreditation, years of experience, and positive client reviews to avoid issues such as data breaches, procedural errors, or regulatory violations that could lead to registration failure or operational disruptions.

3. Bank Account Opening Limitations

While company registration can be completed remotely, opening a local Singapore bank account still presents some challenges. Some banks require directors to be physically present in Singapore for in-person verification, especially for businesses involved in large transactions or cross-border operations. However, banks like DBS and OCBC have begun piloting remote account opening services, allowing identity verification and account setup via video conferencing. This trend is expected to expand in the future.

IV. Advantages of Remote Registration

For Chinese investors, the benefits of registering a Singapore company remotely are clear

Time-saving Avoids the need for international travel, saving valuable time and effort.

Cost-effective Eliminates expenses related to flights, accommodation, and visas.

Efficiency Professional agents are familiar with the process and can complete registration quickly.

Ease of ongoing management Post-registration tasks such as tax filing, annual reporting, and company changes can be handled online.

V. Conclusion

In conclusion, it is not necessary for investors to travel to Singapore in person to register a company. Thanks to Singapore’s digital reforms and the support of local professional service providers, remote registration has become the norm.

For Chinese businesses and entrepreneurs seeking to expand overseas and enhance their international presence, this is undoubtedly an attractive option. However, it is equally important to understand the legal requirements and operational procedures, and to choose a legitimate and reliable service provider to ensure both compliance and efficiency.

In this way, investors can establish an international company structure without ever leaving home - seamlessly and effectively.