Detailed Guide on Singapore Company Registration Costs - Your First Step to Global Expansion Made Easy!

Why Singapore Has Become a Top Choice for Overseas Expansion

In the context of deepening globalization, more and more companies are setting their sights on overseas markets. Singapore, with its stable economic environment, efficient legal system, and strategic geographical location, has become a preferred launchpad for companies looking to expand internationally. For businesses aiming to grow globally, understanding the costs and procedures involved in company registration in Singapore is a crucial step in laying a solid foundation for international operations.

Why Singapore?

In recent years, with the ongoing U.S.-China trade tensions and accelerating global supply chain restructuring, many Chinese companies have begun seeking diversified overseas footholds. According to a 2025 report by the Economic Daily, Singapore has consistently ranked high in global competitiveness indexes due to its low tax rates, absence of foreign exchange controls, robust financial system, and favorable business environment. It has become a popular choice for companies setting up overseas headquarters.

Singapore maintains an open attitude toward foreign investors, and the process of establishing a foreign company is relatively transparent and efficient. Data from the Accounting and Corporate Regulatory Authority ACRA shows that the number of new company registrations in Singapore increased by more than 12% year-on-year in 2025, with a significant portion coming from China, India, and other Southeast Asian countries.

Basic Steps for Company Registration in Singapore

Registering a company in Singapore typically involves the following steps

1. Company Name Approval Submit a proposed company name via ACRA’s online system to ensure it is available.

2. Prepare Required Documents This includes identity proof for shareholders and directors, a registered address, and the company’s constitution.

3. Submit Registration Application The application can be submitted either directly through the ACRA platform or via a registration agent.

4. Obtain Business License Once registered, the company can begin operations.

The entire process can usually be completed within 1 to 3 business days, significantly faster than in many other countries.

Breakdown of Company Registration Costs in Singapore

The costs involved in registering a company in Singapore include

1. Government Fees

Name Registration Fee SGD 15 approximately RMB 60

Company Registration Fee SGD 300 approximately RMB 1,200

Trademark registration and industry-specific licenses may incur additional costs depending on the nature of the business.

2. Registration Agent Service Fees

Most foreign investors choose to use a registration agent to ensure compliance and efficiency. Fees vary by provider, typically ranging from SGD 500 to SGD 1,500 approximately RMB 2,000 to RMB 6,000. These services usually include

Provision of a registered address

Appointment of a local compliance secretary

Assistance with opening a bank account

Post-registration annual compliance services

3. Annual Maintenance Fees

After registration, companies must also budget for recurring annual expenses

Annual Return Filing SGD 30-60

Local Secretary Service SGD 500-1,000 per year

Registered Address Rental SGD 300-800 per year

Audit Fees Companies with annual revenue exceeding SGD 1 million or total assets over SGD 10 million are required to undergo annual audits. Audit fees vary based on company size, generally starting from SGD 1,500.

4. Bank Account Opening Fees

Singapore’s banking system is highly developed, but opening a corporate account can be relatively strict. Some banks charge an account opening fee of SGD 200-500 and may require an initial deposit. Monthly or transaction fees may also apply for account management and transfers.

Key Considerations Before Registration

Despite Singapore’s streamlined registration process and manageable costs, several key points should be considered before incorporation

Local Director Requirement Under Singapore law, every company must have at least one local resident director, who can be a Singapore citizen, permanent resident, or a professional holding an Employment Pass.

Tax Compliance Singapore follows a territorial tax system, requiring companies to submit financial statements and tax returns on time.

Industry Licenses Additional licenses may be required from relevant regulatory bodies for companies operating in sectors such as finance, education, or healthcare.

Long-term Operating Costs Beyond registration fees, ongoing costs such as employee salaries, office rent, and marketing expenses should also be factored into the budget.

Conclusion

In today’s irreversible trend of globalization, Singapore serves as a crucial hub connecting Eastern and Western markets, offering a strong platform for international business expansion. By understanding the specific costs and procedures involved in company registration, businesses can be well-prepared from the outset, avoiding unnecessary legal and financial risks. For companies seeking to expand overseas, setting up in Singapore is not only the first step-it is also a critical foundation for long-term global success.