How to Successfully Register a Company in Singapore? Full Process Revealed!

How to Successfully Register a Company in Singapore A Comprehensive Guide to the Entire Process

In recent years, as the global economic landscape continues to evolve, more and more entrepreneurs and business owners are setting their sights on the Southeast Asian market. As a regional economic hub, Singapore has become one of the top destinations for international investors due to its stable environment, efficient legal system, open market policies, and high-quality business ecosystem.

According to the latest data released by Enterprise Singapore, the number of newly registered businesses in Singapore increased by over 12% year-on-year in 2025, demonstrating strong entrepreneurial vitality. For entrepreneurs planning to set up a company in Singapore, understanding the full company registration process is key to a smooth and efficient setup. This article will walk you through the entire process, helping you avoid unnecessary detours and complete your company registration effectively.

1. Determine Your Company Type and Business Direction

Before officially registering, it is essential to decide on the appropriate company structure and business direction. Common types of companies in Singapore include

Private Limited Company Pte Ltd The most common form, suitable for most small to medium-sized enterprises. It has no more than 50 shareholders, and shares cannot be publicly traded.

Public Limited Company Ltd Suitable for large corporations or companies planning to go public.

Branch Office Ideal for foreign companies looking to establish a local branch in Singapore.

Representative Office Useful for initial market research but cannot generate profit. It typically has a validity period of one year.

Most entrepreneurs choose to register a Private Limited Company due to its advantages such as limited liability, strong financing capabilities, and access to various tax incentives.

2. Prepare Required Documents

After selecting the company type, the next step is to prepare the necessary documents

1. Company Name Must be submitted through the Accounting and Corporate Regulatory Authority ACRA website to ensure it is available and complies with regulations.

2. Shareholder and Director Information At least one local director is required a Singapore citizen, permanent resident, or employment pass holder. Shareholders can be foreigners.

3. Registered Address A physical address in Singapore is required not a P.O. Box.

4. Company Constitution Outlines the company’s governance structure and shareholder rights.

5. Shareholding Structure Clearly defines the percentage of shares held by each shareholder.

6. Company Secretary Appointed within six months of incorporation, as required by law.

7. Paid-Up Capital There is no minimum requirement; most companies start with at least 1 SGD.

3. Detailed Company Registration Process

Singapore’s company registration process is known for being efficient and transparent, typically completed within 1-3 business days. Here’s a breakdown of the steps

1. Submit Company Name Application

Apply through ACRA’s BizFile+ system. If approved, the name will be reserved within 24 hours.

2. Prepare and Submit Registration Documents

These include the company constitution, shareholder and director details, and registered address. Documents can be submitted directly or through a professional agent via BizFile+.

3. Pay Registration Fees

The total cost is approximately 300 SGD, covering both name reservation and company incorporation.

4. Receive Certificate of Registration

Upon successful registration, ACRA issues an electronic Business Profile, officially certifying the company’s establishment.

4. Post-Registration Compliance

After registration, several key tasks must be completed to ensure legal compliance

1. Open a Corporate Bank Account

Consider banks like DBS, OCBC, or UOB. Some banks offer remote account opening options, especially beneficial for overseas investors.

2. Apply for Relevant Licenses or Permits

Depending on the industry, you may need to apply for permits from relevant authorities. For example, the Singapore Food Agency SFA regulates the food industry, and the Monetary Authority of Singapore MAS oversees financial services.

3. Complete Tax Registration

All companies must register for Goods and Services Tax GST and corporate income tax with the Inland Revenue Authority of Singapore IRAS within three months of incorporation. The current corporate tax rate is 17%, with tax exemptions for the first 100,000 SGD of annual profits.

4. Hire Employees and Apply for Work Passes

If hiring foreign workers, apply for work passes such as the Employment Pass EP or S Pass through the Ministry of Manpower MOM.

5. Leverage Professional Services for Efficiency

While the registration process is straightforward, unfamiliarity with local laws and tax systems can pose challenges for first-time entrepreneurs or overseas investors. Engaging professional agents or law firms can help ensure a smooth process and avoid delays caused by incomplete documentation or procedural misunderstandings.

Additionally, Singapore offers various startup support programs, such as Startup SG, which provides funding, office space, and mentorship for eligible startups. Entrepreneurs are encouraged to explore and apply for these opportunities.

Conclusion

As one of the world’s most competitive business hubs, Singapore offers an efficient company registration process and a business-friendly environment. By choosing the right company structure, preparing all required documents, understanding the registration steps, and fulfilling post-registration compliance requirements, you can successfully establish your company in Singapore and embark on a new chapter of international growth.