How to Register a Company in Singapore? Meet These Requirements and Get It Done Easily!

How to Register a Company in Singapore Understanding These Requirements Will Get You Started Easily!

In recent years, with the shifting global economic landscape, more and more entrepreneurs and investors have turned their attention to Singapore - Asia’s key business hub. As a stable country offering tax incentives and an excellent business environment, Singapore has become a popular choice for international companies setting up regional headquarters. According to data from the Accounting and Corporate Regulatory Authority ACRA, the number of newly registered companies in Singapore continued to rise in 2025, especially in the technology, finance, and green energy sectors, where the number of emerging businesses has significantly increased.

For those planning to start a business or expand operations in Singapore, how can you smoothly register a company? What conditions must be met? This article provides a detailed explanation.

1. Basic Requirements for Company Registration in Singapore

Registering a company in Singapore is not complicated, but certain basic conditions must be met

1. Company Name Approval

Before registration, the proposed company name must be submitted to ACRA for approval to ensure it is unique and not already in use. The name must comply with Singapore’s relevant laws and must not contain inappropriate or offensive language.

2. Shareholders and Directors

A Singapore company must have at least one shareholder and one director. Shareholders can be individuals or corporate entities. At least one director must be a Singapore citizen, permanent resident, or hold a valid Entrepreneur Pass EntrePass or Employment Pass. Foreign investors can meet this requirement by applying for the relevant pass.

3. Registered Address

The company must have a physical address in Singapore - a P.O. Box is not acceptable.

4. Company Secretary and Auditor

All locally registered companies must appoint a company secretary within six months of incorporation. The secretary must be a Singapore resident. If the company is a Private Limited company Pte Ltd, it must also appoint an auditor within three months unless it qualifies for audit exemption - for example, if its annual revenue is below SGD 5 million, it has fewer than 50 employees, and total assets are under SGD 10 million.

5. Authorized Capital

There is no minimum capital requirement in Singapore. Investors can decide the amount based on their needs, although a minimum of SGD 1 is typically recommended.

2. Clear and Efficient Registration Process

Once the above requirements are met, the registration process can begin. The entire process usually takes 1-3 days

1. Prepare Company Documents

This includes the company name, identity information of shareholders and directors, registered address, and the company’s constitution.

2. Submit Registration Application

Applications can be submitted through ACRA’s online system, BizFile+. Upon approval, ACRA will issue a Certificate of Incorporation.

3. Open a Corporate Bank Account

After registration, the company can open a bank account in Singapore. It is advisable to choose major banks such as DBS Bank, OCBC Bank, or UOB.

4. Apply for Industry Licenses

If the company operates in a regulated sector such as food services, finance, or healthcare, it must apply for the relevant industry license from the appropriate authority.

3. Tax Advantages and Policy Support

Singapore is known for its low tax rates and simple tax system, attracting many international businesses. For example, the maximum corporate income tax rate is 17%, significantly lower than in many developed countries. Singapore has signed Double Taxation Avoidance Agreements DTAs with numerous countries, helping businesses optimize their tax structures.

In 2025, the Monetary Authority of Singapore MAS introduced several financial technology support policies to encourage startups to enter fields such as blockchain, artificial intelligence, and green finance. Tech companies registered in Singapore are also eligible for RD tax credits, innovation grants, and other support measures.

4. Suitable Company Structures

Common types of companies in Singapore include

Private Limited Company Pte Ltd The most common and popular structure, offering limited liability and separate legal entity status.

Branch Office Suitable for overseas companies establishing a presence in Singapore.

Representative Office Ideal for market research, but not permitted to generate profit.

Sole Proprietorship and Partnership Suitable for small individual businesses but do not offer limited liability protection.

For most international investors, the Private Limited Company is the ideal choice, as it offers strong legal protection and ease of raising capital.

5. Compliance Requirements After Registration

Registering the company is just the beginning. Maintaining compliance is equally important. Singapore has strict compliance requirements, including

Filing an Annual Return every year

Holding regular shareholder meetings

Keeping complete financial records

Paying taxes on time

Company directors must also ensure compliance with anti-money laundering AML and know-your-customer KYC regulations to avoid operational disruptions due to compliance issues.

6. Conclusion

Amid increasing global economic uncertainty, Singapore stands out as an ideal destination for entrepreneurs and investors due to its stable environment, efficient services, and superior business climate. Understanding the basic requirements and procedures for company registration in Singapore not only helps businesses establish themselves smoothly but also lays a solid foundation for long-term, sustainable growth. Whether you are a startup or a multinational corporation, careful planning and legal compliance will enable you to maximize your business value in this vibrant market.