How to Register a Company in Singapore as a Foreigner? A Comprehensive Guide!

How Foreigners Can Easily Register a Company in Singapore A Comprehensive Guide

In recent years, Singapore has become a top destination for entrepreneurs and businesses looking to establish an overseas presence, thanks to its stable environment, efficient services, strategic location, and open economic policies. Amid increasing global economic uncertainty, more and more foreign investors are turning their attention to this garden city as a foothold in the Southeast Asian market.

According to data released by Enterprise Singapore, the number of new company registrations in the first quarter of 2025 increased by nearly 12% year-on-year, with a significant rise in the proportion of foreign-invested enterprises - a clear sign of international confidence in Singapore’s business environment.

For foreign entrepreneurs, understanding how to successfully register a company in Singapore is a top priority. This article provides a detailed breakdown of the process, including registration procedures, legal requirements, tax policies, and common business structures, to help you take your first step into entrepreneurship.

1. Advantages of Registering a Company in Singapore

Before diving into the registration process, let’s explore why Singapore is one of the most popular destinations for foreign businesses

Low Tax Rates and Incentives

Singapore imposes one of the lowest corporate tax rates globally at 17%, and newly established companies enjoy tax exemptions for their first three years. In addition, Singapore has signed over 80 Double Taxation Avoidance Agreements DTAs, facilitating international tax planning.

Efficient and Transparent Services

The entire company registration process is conducted online and typically takes just one day to complete.

Open Foreign Ownership Policy

Foreign investors can fully own a company 100% equity without needing a local partner or guarantor.

Strong Financial Environment

As a leading financial hub in Asia, Singapore offers a robust banking system and diverse financing options, ideal for international operations.

World-Class Business Infrastructure

Singapore boasts top-tier logistics, communication systems, and a highly skilled talent pool, providing strong support for business operations.

2. Basic Steps to Register a Company in Singapore

Step 1 Choose the Company Structure

The most common and recommended structure for foreign investors is the Private Limited Company Pte Ltd. This structure has separate legal identity, limited liability for shareholders, and is more attractive for fundraising and investment.

Other options include

Branch Office Suitable for companies already operating overseas, but it does not have independent legal status.

Representative Office Ideal for market research, but not allowed to engage in profit-making activities.

Sole Proprietorship or Partnership Suitable for small-scale operations, but with higher personal liability risks.

Step 2 Select a Company Name

The company name must be approved through the online system of the Accounting and Corporate Regulatory Authority ACRA, ensuring it is unique and complies with regulations.

Step 3 Prepare Registration Documents

The following documents are required during registration

Company Constitution

Details of shareholders and directors

At least one local director can be outsourced via a professional secretarial firm

Registered address in Singapore

Business activities up to two can be selected

Step 4 Submit the Application

Using ACRA’s BizFile+ system, the application is submitted online and typically approved within one business day.

Step 5 Open a Corporate Bank Account

After registration, you can open a bank account in Singapore or with an international bank. Some banks allow remote account opening, which is especially convenient for foreign entrepreneurs.

Step 6 Apply for Relevant Licenses if applicable

If your business operates in a regulated industry such as education, healthcare, or finance, you must obtain the necessary license from the relevant authority.

3. Key Considerations for Foreigners Registering a Company

1. Local Director Requirement

Singapore law requires that every private limited company must have at least one director who is a Singapore citizen, permanent resident, or holds a valid work pass e.g., Employment Pass or S Pass. Many foreign investors choose to engage a local secretarial firm to provide a nominee director.

2. Company Secretary and Annual Compliance

Every company must appoint a qualified company secretary and hold its first Annual General Meeting AGM within 18 months of incorporation, followed by annual meetings. The company must also file an Annual Return and financial statements each year.

3. Tax Filing Obligations

While Singapore offers a favorable tax regime, businesses must still comply with tax filing requirements. It is advisable to engage a professional accounting firm to assist with tax and compliance matters to avoid issues due to lack of local knowledge.

4. Frequently Asked Questions

Q Can foreigners register a company without a local partner?

A Yes. Singapore allows 100% foreign ownership, and there is no requirement for a local partner.

Q Is it necessary to visit Singapore to complete the registration?

A No. The entire registration process can be completed online, and many secretarial firms offer remote services, including virtual offices and nominee director arrangements.

Q What is the minimum capital required to register a company?

A There is no minimum capital requirement. A company can be registered with just 1 Singapore dollar. However, operational capital should be determined based on actual business needs.

Q Can I apply for a work pass after registering a company?

A Yes. Eligible foreign shareholders may apply for an EntrePass Entrepreneur Pass or an Employment Pass to legally work and reside in Singapore.

5. Conclusion

As the global economic landscape continues to evolve, Singapore is increasingly becoming a strategic hub connecting East and West. Its efficient and transparent business environment provides foreign entrepreneurs with a strong foundation for growth.

Whether you're launching a tech startup, setting up a trading company, or establishing a regional headquarters, Singapore offers a range of suitable business structures and support systems. For foreign investors aiming to set up in Singapore, understanding local regulations, planning your company structure wisely, and choosing the right professional service providers are key to a successful launch.

With proper preparation and compliance, registering a company in Singapore is not only feasible but also a promising opportunity to kickstart your global business journey.