Choose the Right Agent to Register Your Singapore Company - 4 Key Points to Make Your Startup More Stable and Stress-Free

How to Choose a Quality Agent to Register a Company in Singapore? Four Key Factors to Ensure Your Startup Success

In recent years, with the acceleration of global economic integration, more and more Chinese companies and entrepreneurs are looking to overseas markets. Singapore, with its stable environment, strategic location, robust financial system, and efficient services, has become one of the top choices for international investors. According to data released by Enterprise Singapore, the number of new business registrations in the first quarter of 2025 increased by more than 12% year-on-year, with a significant rise in investments from Asia, particularly from Chinese startups and SMEs.

However, for entrepreneurs entering the overseas market for the first time, selecting a reliable and professional agent is often the most critical first step in setting up a company in Singapore. Based on recent market trends and real-world cases, this article outlines four key factors to help you make the right choice and start your Singapore business journey on solid ground.

1. Check Credentials and Industry Reputation - Choose a Trustworthy Service Provider

When selecting an agent, the first thing to verify is whether they have official registration credentials and a solid industry reputation. In Singapore, company registration agents should ideally be recognized by the Accounting and Corporate Regulatory Authority ACRA and have experience serving international clients.

Recent media reports have highlighted how some unscrupulous intermediaries exploit entrepreneurs unfamiliar with the Singapore market by providing misleading information or making exaggerated promises, which can lead to financial loss or legal issues.

It is advisable to choose agencies with strong customer reviews, transparent website information, and a track record of successful cases. You can check reviews on platforms like Google, Yelp, or LinkedIn, or seek real feedback from professional forums or entrepreneurial communities.

A reputable agent will clearly outline their service process and pricing, without hidden charges after signing the contract.

2. Focus on Comprehensive and Professional Services - Avoid Low-Price Traps

Some agencies advertise company registration for as low as S$99, which may seem attractive at first glance, but often comes with hidden costs or poor service quality. Common issues include non-compliant registered addresses, lack of essential secretary services, and failure to assist with bank account opening.

A truly high-quality service should cover the entire process company registration, registered address, company secretary, tax registration, business license application, and assistance with bank account setup.

Take the 2025 MAS Monetary Authority of Singapore banking regulations as an example - banks now conduct stricter due diligence, requiring detailed business plans and shareholder background checks. If an agent lacks relevant experience, it could delay or even prevent successful bank account opening.

When choosing an agent, it’s important to ensure they offer end-to-end services and have the capability to handle complex procedures. Although the price may be higher, professional service ultimately reduces risks and saves time in the long run.

3. Evaluate Local Resources and Post-Registration Support

Registering a company is just the beginning. What truly tests an agent’s value is the support they provide afterward. Can they help apply for government grants? Do they offer accounting and tax filing services? Are they capable of providing legal advice?

Take for example Singapore’s recent Startup Tax Exemption UTE scheme, under which eligible new companies can enjoy up to 75% corporate income tax relief for the first three years. However, the application process is complex and requires detailed financial statements and business plans. Agents with accounting and tax expertise can significantly increase your chances of approval.

Top-tier agents often have long-term partnerships with local banks, law firms, and accounting firms, enabling them to offer more comprehensive support throughout your business operations. This kind of resource integration is often the hidden asset that startups need most.

4. Prioritize Smooth Communication and Prompt Response - Service Experience Matters

During your initial communication with an agent, pay close attention to their response time and service attitude. Setting up a Singapore company involves extensive document preparation and information verification. If the agent is slow to respond or lacks clear communication, it could delay the registration process and even cause you to miss your ideal market entry window.

In today’s era of remote work, it’s important to check whether the agent offers bilingual Chinese and English support and has stable communication channels such as WeCom WeChat Work, Zoom, or email.

Some professional agencies assign a dedicated advisor to each client, ensuring accurate and efficient handling of all matters. Before signing a contract, it’s a good idea to test their communication by asking a few questions and observing their responsiveness and professionalism.

If they patiently answer your concerns and offer practical advice, they are likely a trustworthy partner.

Conclusion

Choosing a reliable agent is a crucial step in setting up a company in Singapore. It not only affects the efficiency of the registration process but also impacts your company’s compliance and long-term growth.

By focusing on the four key factors - verifying credentials, ensuring comprehensive service coverage, evaluating local resources, and prioritizing communication - entrepreneurs can confidently take their first step toward international expansion.

In today’s global economic landscape, Singapore remains an attractive investment destination. Instead of trial and error, partnering with a professional team can make your entrepreneurial journey more stable and efficient.