
Must-See for Guangzhou Locals! Step-by-Step Guide to Successfully Registering a Company in Singapore

How to Successfully Register a Company in Singapore from Guangzhou - A Step-by-Step Guide
In recent years, as global economic integration has accelerated, more and more Chinese companies have begun expanding overseas in search of international opportunities. Singapore, as one of Asia’s most important financial and business hubs, has become a top choice for many Guangzhou-based enterprises. Thanks to its stable political and economic environment, robust legal system, low tax policies, and strong trade relations with China, Singapore offers a solid foundation for overseas growth.
According to Q1 2025 data, the number of Chinese companies registering in Singapore increased by more than 20% year-on-year, with a significant portion coming from the Guangdong region. As a national central city, Guangzhou’s strong presence in foreign trade, logistics, and technology makes it a natural source for this expansion.
If you're a Guangzhou-based business owner or entrepreneur, do you know how to successfully register a company in Singapore? This article will walk you through the entire process, helping you avoid unnecessary detours and set up efficiently.
1. Understand Singapore Company Types and Registration Requirements
The most common type of company in Singapore is the Private Limited Company Pte Ltd. This structure has a separate legal identity, offers limited liability protection to shareholders, and is ideal for most small to medium-sized businesses.
Other options include branches, representative offices, and partnerships, but for Guangzhou businesses, the Private Limited Company is usually the best fit.
Basic Requirements for Company Registration
At least one local resident director Singapore citizen, PR, or EP holder
A Singapore resident company secretary
Minimum paid-up capital of S$1 no upper limit
A local Singapore registered address
Shareholders can be individuals or corporate entities no nationality restrictions
A company name approved by ACRA Accounting and Corporate Regulatory Authority
2. Step-by-Step Registration Process
a Company Name Approval
The first step is to submit your preferred company name to ACRA for approval. It’s wise to prepare 2-3 alternative names to avoid duplication. Name approval usually takes about 1 hour and costs S$15.
b Prepare Required Documents
These typically include
Company Constitution Memorandum Articles of Association
Identity documents and passport copies of directors and shareholders
Contact details of the local director
Proof of registered address in Singapore
Appointment letter for the company secretary
Business activities up to 2 main activities can be selected
c Submit Registration Application
Use ACRA’s online platform BizFile+ to complete the registration. The process usually takes 1 business day and costs around S$300.
d Open a Corporate Bank Account
After registration, you’ll need to open a bank account in Singapore. Major banks like DBS, OCBC, and UOB support remote account opening, though a director may need to be present for identity verification.
e Apply for Business License if required
If your business operates in a regulated industry e.g., food services, education, healthcare, you must apply for a Business License from the relevant authority.
f Tax Registration and Compliance
Singapore uses a territorial tax system, meaning only income earned in Singapore is taxed. Companies must file their first tax return within 18 months of incorporation. It’s recommended to work with a local accounting firm to ensure compliance.
3. Common Ways for Guangzhou Businesses to Meet Local Director Requirements
Since Singapore requires at least one local director, Guangzhou-based entrepreneurs often use the following methods
a Hire a Local Nominee Director
This is the most popular approach. Many Singapore-based agencies offer nominee director services to help foreign companies meet legal requirements. Be sure to choose a reputable provider to avoid future complications.
b Partner with a Local Individual or Company
Collaborating with a local partner can help satisfy the local director requirement while also supporting your business’s local operations.
c Send an Employee to Singapore
For long-term plans, you can apply for an Employment Pass EP for a key employee, allowing them to serve as a local director and manage the company locally.
4. Why You Should Consider a Professional Agency
While the registration process is straightforward, Guangzhou businesses may face challenges related to language, legal systems, and cultural differences. Working with a professional Singapore company registration agency can provide a one-stop solution, covering
Company registration
Nominee director services
Bank account setup
Accounting and tax compliance
This approach lowers the barrier to entry and ensures a smoother, more efficient setup.
5. Advantages and Future Prospects for Guangzhou Companies in Singapore
Beyond its streamlined registration process, Singapore offers several key benefits
Low corporate tax rate maximum 17%, with tax exemption on the first S$100,000 of profits
Free flow of capital no foreign exchange controls
Strategic location ideal for expanding into ASEAN markets
Supportive policies various tax incentives and subsidies for foreign businesses
Strong international reputation enhances brand credibility and customer trust
With the RCEP Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership agreement gaining momentum, Southeast Asia is becoming increasingly important for Chinese enterprises. By setting up a company in Singapore, Guangzhou businesses can more easily access ASEAN markets and leverage Singapore’s mature financial system for global capital operations and brand internationalization.
Conclusion
Registering a company in Singapore has become a crucial step for Guangzhou businesses looking to expand globally. With proper planning, a clear understanding of the process, and the help of a reliable agency, the journey can be smooth and efficient.
As Sino-Singaporean economic cooperation deepens, more and more Guangzhou companies are expected to establish a presence in Singapore, opening a new chapter in their international development.
Helpful (0)
No help (0)
Still have questions after reading? More than 98,000 users have contacted us. Please fill in the following information to obtain business information.

Previous Article
What's the FT NRA OSA Account? A Down-to-Earth Guide to Everything You Need to Know
Aug 08, 2025Next Article
How Foreigners Can Easily Open a Fixed Deposit in Singapore to Make Their Money Work for Them?
Aug 08, 2025Service Scope
MoreRecommended for You
- Singapore Bank Account Guide Easily Kickstart Your Global Finance Journey
- Register Business License in Singapore - Kickstart Your Startup with Ease!
- Starting a Company in Singapore? Know These Registration RequirementsDetails First!
- A Complete Guide to Registering a Company in Singapore Unlocking the Door to Global Markets Made Easy
- How to Prepare for a Singapore Company Audit Report Key StepsTips You Need to Know
- Trouble with Singapore Company Annual Filing? Try Pro Agency Service for Hassle-FreeEfficient Solution!
- Setting Up a Company in Singapore Made Easy! A Comprehensive Guide to BenefitsProcess of Agency Services
- Singapore Company Registration Costs Explained SmarterMore Cost-Effective Investing
- Analysis of Annual Audit Costs for Singapore Companies Smart Financial Management for Hassle-Free Compliance
- Setting Up a Company in Singapore Made Easy! From Registration to Taxation, All Explained in One Article
- Singapore Bank Cards Choose Right, Use Smart, Manage Well - Unlock Financial Freedom
- A Complete Guide to Company Registration in Singapore Kickstart Your Business's Global Journey
- Singapore Company Annual Review All You Need to Know in One Read!
- A Complete Guide to Registering a Company in Singapore Step-by-Step Tips for Unlocking Global Business Opportunities
- Secrets to Registering a Company in Singapore Find the Right Agent and Easily Take Your First Step Toward Global Expansion
- How to Start an Import/Export Business in Singapore? Here's a Practical Guide!
- Singapore Sets Up Project Co - How to Boost Global Investment Seamlessly?
- Guide to Managing Bank Accounts in Singapore Steer Steadily in the Global Financial Ocean
- Bank ODI Business Registration Certificate A Handy Guide for Enterprises Going Global, Do You Know It?
- Ultimate Guide to Opening a Company Account in Singapore! Key Steps Explained
Customer Reviews
Small *** Table
December 12, 2024The experience was very good. I was still struggling to compare it with other companies. I went to the site a few days ago and wanted to implement it as soon as possible. I didn't expect that everything exceeded my expectations. The company is very large, with several hundred square meters. The employees are also dedicated and responsible. There is also a wall of certificates. I placed an order on the spot. It turned out that I did not make a wrong choice. The company's service attitude is very good and professional. The person who contacted me explained various things in detail in advance. After placing the order, the follow-up was also very timely, and they took the initiative to report the progress to me. In short, I am very satisfied and recommend this company!
Lin *** e
December 18, 2024When I first consulted customer service, they recommended an agent to me. They were very professional and patient and provided excellent service. They answered my questions as they came in. This 2-to-1 service model is very thoughtful. I had a lot of questions that I didn’t understand, and it’s not easy to register a company in Hong Kong. Fortunately, I have you.
t *** 7
December 19, 2024I originally thought that they only did mainland business, but I didn’t expect that they had been doing Hong Kong business and were doing very well. After the on-site interview, I decided to ask them to arrange the registration of my Hong Kong company. They helped me complete it very quickly and provided all the necessary information. The efficiency was awesome. It turns out that professional things should be done by professionals.👍
b *** 5
December 16, 2024In order to register a company in Hong Kong, I compared many platforms and stores and finally chose this store. The merchant said that they have been operating offline for more than 10 years and are indeed an old team of corporate services. The efficiency is first-class, and the customer service is also very professional.