Guide to Registering a Company in Singapore Must-Know Steps Details!

Singapore Company Registration Certificate Essential Details and Steps You Must Know - All in One Guide

In recent years, with the shifting global economic landscape, more entrepreneurs and small-to-medium enterprises SMEs have turned their attention to Southeast Asia. As one of the world’s leading financial hubs, Singapore has become a top destination for businesses looking to expand overseas, thanks to its stable political and economic environment, robust legal system, and efficient services.

According to data from Enterprise Singapore, the number of newly registered companies in Singapore continued to grow in 2025, with a notable increase in the proportion of foreign-owned businesses. If you're planning to set up a company in Singapore, understanding the registration process and required documents-especially the company registration certificate-is essential for your entrepreneurial journey.

1. The Basic Process of Registering a Company in Singapore

Registering a company in Singapore may seem complicated at first, but once you understand the key steps, the process can be smooth and straightforward. Here are the typical steps involved

1.1 Company Name Approval and Registration Application

The first step is to submit your proposed company name for approval to the Accounting and Corporate Regulatory Authority ACRA. Once the name is approved, you can proceed with the company registration. Keep in mind that approved names are only reserved for 60 days-failure to register within this period will require resubmission.

1.2 Preparation of Registration Documents

This includes documents such as the company’s registered address, identity proof of shareholders and directors, the company’s constitution, and details of the company secretary. Singapore requires at least one local resident director, who can be a Singapore citizen, permanent resident, or a professional holding an Employment Pass.

1.3 Submission of Registration Application

The registration is submitted online via ACRA’s BizFile+ system. In most cases, the process takes just a few hours, though more complex cases might require one to two business days.

1.4 Receiving the Company Registration Certificate

Upon successful registration, ACRA issues the Business Profile, also known as the company registration certificate. This document contains key company information such as the Unique Entity Number UEN, date of incorporation, and business activities. It is essential for conducting business, opening a bank account, and applying for various licenses.

2. The Role and Ways to Obtain the Company Registration Certificate

The Business Profile serves as the official identification of a Singapore-based company and is crucial for various business purposes

Opening a corporate bank account

Signing contracts with clients or suppliers

Applying for subsidies or participating in tenders

Completing other business-related procedures

Obtaining the certificate is simple log in to ACRA’s BizFile+ portal using your registration account, download and print the electronic version. A physical copy can also be ordered for a small fee. Starting in 2025, more institutions and banks in Singapore now accept the digital version without the need for additional authentication, significantly improving operational efficiency.

3. Frequently Asked Questions

3.1 Is notarization required for the company registration certificate?

For local use, no additional notarization is needed. However, if the document is to be used overseas-for example, setting up a representative office in China or entering international partnerships-it may require authentication by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs MFA in Singapore and consular legalization by the Chinese embassy in Singapore.

3.2 Can foreign companies own 100% of the shares?

Yes. Singapore welcomes foreign investment and allows 100% foreign ownership without industry restrictions. This is one of the reasons why many Chinese companies choose Singapore as their regional headquarters.

3.3 Is a physical office address required for registration?

Yes. Singapore law requires every company to have a local registered address. This can be a commercial office address or a service address provided by a registered agent.

4. Benefits of Using a Professional Registration Agent

While the registration process is relatively simple, many businesses choose to work with a professional registration agent due to language barriers, legal differences, and ongoing compliance and tax requirements. These agents not only assist with the registration process but also offer a range of services including company secretary support, annual filings, and tax advisory.

According to feedback from several local startup service providers in 2025, an increasing number of Chinese entrepreneurs are opting for agents offering Chinese-language support to ensure smoother communication and better understanding of the process. This trend reflects the deepening business collaboration between China and Singapore.

5. Conclusion

Singapore continues to attract entrepreneurs worldwide with its open business environment, efficient services, and mature financial system. Whether you're expanding overseas or preparing for future IPO opportunities, registering a company in Singapore is a smart move.

While the company registration certificate may seem like a small document, it marks the starting point of legal business operations. Understanding the registration process, preparing the necessary documents, and choosing the right partner can help you take your first step toward international growth more smoothly.

We hope this guide has provided you with a clear and practical roadmap to successfully start your business journey in Singapore.