Singapore Company Annual Review Deadline Explained Consequences of Missing It

The Complete Guide to Singapore Company Annual Filing What Happens If You Miss It?

Registering a company in Singapore is a key step for many entrepreneurs looking to expand their international business. As part of maintaining compliance, all Singapore-registered companies are required to complete annual filing obligations. This is not just a legal formality-it is essential for maintaining a company’s credibility and avoiding legal and financial risks.

So, what exactly does annual filing involve? How is the filing timeline calculated? And what are the consequences of missing the deadline? This article will answer these important questions.

1. What is Annual Filing for Singapore Companies?

Annual filing for Singapore companies-known as the Annual Return-is not the same as a financial audit. It refers to the process by which a company submits its annual declaration to the Accounting and Corporate Regulatory Authority ACRA, Singapore’s business regulator.

The main components of annual filing include

1. Submitting audited financial statements, or exempt financial statements for small companies;

2. Updating company information, such as changes in directors, shareholders, company secretary, or registered address;

3. Confirming the company’s operational status;

4. Filing the Annual Return and paying the associated fees.

The core purpose of annual filing is to ensure transparency and compliance, allowing authorities and the public to access accurate and up-to-date company information.

2. How Is the Annual Filing Timeline Calculated?

The annual filing schedule is closely tied to the company’s Financial Year End FYE. Typically, a company must complete its annual filing within 7 months after the end of its financial year.

For example, if a company’s financial year ends on June 30, 2025, the latest it can file its Annual Return is January 31, 2026.

Here’s a breakdown of the key deadlines

Financial Year End FYE June 30, 2025

Annual General Meeting AGM Must be held within 6 months after FYE, i.e., by December 31, 2025

ACRA Annual Return Submission Must be filed within 7 months after FYE, i.e., by January 31, 2026

Note Starting from 2025, ACRA has removed the mandatory requirement for private limited companies to hold an AGM unless specified in the company’s constitution. However, financial statements still need to be submitted within the prescribed time frame.

3. Does Company Size Affect the Annual Filing Process?

The general filing procedures and timelines apply to all company types, but there are differences based on company size

Small Companies

Eligible small companies e.g., with annual revenue not exceeding SGD 10 million, fewer than 50 employees may submit simplified financial statements and are exempt from audit.

Medium and Large Companies

These companies must submit audited full financial statements and undergo professional audit procedures.

Foreign Branches in Singapore

Branches of foreign companies are subject to different requirements and typically need to submit summary financial information of the parent company.

4. What Happens If You Miss the Annual Filing Deadline?

Filing the Annual Return is a legal obligation. Failure to meet the deadline can result in serious consequences

1. Fines and Late Fees

ACRA automatically issues fines for late submissions. The amount depends on the length of the delay and can go up to SGD 50,000, plus daily late fees.

2. Company Status Marked as Non-Compliant

If a company fails to file on time, its status on the ACRA system will be marked as Outstanding Annual Return, which can damage its reputation with banks, partners, and clients.

3. Legal Liability for Directors

Directors are legally responsible for ensuring compliance. If a company consistently fails to file, ACRA may take legal action, including court proceedings, travel restrictions, or visa complications.

4. Forced Strike-Off

If a company fails to file for two consecutive years, ACRA may initiate the strike-off process, removing the company from the register. Once struck off, the company’s assets become state property, and reinstatement is a complex and lengthy process.

5. Recent News Annual Filing Compliance in the Spotlight

With Singapore tightening corporate compliance standards, annual filing has become a growing concern for businesses.

According to a July 2025 ACRA announcement, over 12,000 companies were fined for late submissions in the past year, and nearly 300 were struck off for prolonged non-compliance.

To improve efficiency and reduce filing errors, ACRA continues to enhance its BizFile+ electronic filing platform. In September 2025, ACRA introduced a new feature allowing companies to submit annual filing documents in advance. The system will automatically process the filing once the financial year ends, further reducing the risk of late submissions.

6. How to Ensure Timely Annual Filing

To avoid the risks associated with missed deadlines, business owners and company secretaries should consider the following best practices

1. Set Filing Reminders Use calendar tools or compliance management software to track key deadlines.

2. Outsource to Professionals Many Singapore accounting and corporate secretarial firms offer annual filing services that help ensure compliance.

3. Update Company Information Regularly Keep director, shareholder, and address details current to avoid filing issues.

4. Prepare Financial Statements Early Especially for companies requiring audits, early coordination with accountants ensures all documents are ready on time.

Annual filing is a crucial part of maintaining a company’s legal and operational integrity in Singapore. Whether you’re a startup or a multinational, proper planning, timely preparation, and expert support are essential to ensure your business continues to thrive in Singapore’s competitive business environment.