How to Register a Company in Singapore A Step-by-Step Guide to the Required Procedures

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How to Register a Company in Singapore - A Step-by-Step Guide

In recent years, as the global business environment has improved, more and more entrepreneurs and small to medium-sized businesses have been looking to expand overseas. Singapore, as one of Asia’s most competitive business hubs, has become a top destination for international investors. With its stable economy, efficient services, and attractive tax policies, it’s no wonder that Singapore continues to draw global attention.

Especially in 2025, as the global economy begins to recover, business activity in Singapore has remained strong. According to the latest data from the Accounting and Corporate Regulatory Authority ACRA, new business registrations in the first half of 2025 increased by 12% compared to the previous year. Many of these new businesses come from China, India, and other Southeast Asian countries.

If you're thinking about setting up a company in Singapore, do you know what steps you need to take? This article will walk you through the entire process and give you a clear understanding of how to register a company in Singapore.

Step 1 Choose Your Company Type and Structure

Before starting the registration process, the first thing you need to decide is what type of company you want to set up. The most common types in Singapore include

Private Limited Company Pte Ltd This is the most popular option for foreign investors. It has a separate legal identity, offers limited liability protection to shareholders, and is ideal for long-term growth.

Branch Office Suitable for businesses already established overseas that want to open a local branch in Singapore.

Representative Office Best for early-stage market research. It cannot generate profits and is typically allowed to operate for only one year.

Most investors choose to register a Private Limited Company because it benefits from a low corporate tax rate with tax exemption on the first S$300,000 of profits and access to Singapore’s network of double taxation avoidance agreements.

Step 2 Prepare Required Documents

To register a Private Limited Company in Singapore, you’ll need the following

1. Company Name You must check name availability through ACRA’s online system. It’s also wise to do a trademark search to avoid legal issues later.

2. Paid-Up Capital The minimum is just S$1, and there’s no upper limit. Most companies start with around S$100.

3. Director and Shareholder Details

At least one director must be a Singapore resident citizen, permanent resident, or someone holding an Employment Pass.

Shareholders can be foreigners or foreign companies.

4. Company Secretary Must be a professional based in Singapore. This service is often provided by a registered filing agent.

5. Registered Address Must be a valid local address-not a P.O. Box.

You’ll also need to prepare the Company Constitution, which outlines governance rules, shareholder rights, and internal procedures.

Step 3 Decide How to Register

You have two main options

1. Self-registration You can use ACRA’s BizFile+ online portal to submit your application. This is best if you're familiar with the process and have time to handle it yourself.

2. Hire a Professional Service Most foreign investors choose to work with a registered agent-such as an accounting firm, law firm, or business services provider. These agencies offer one-stop services including company registration, bank account setup, and tax registration. Although it costs more, it’s much more convenient and reduces the risk of mistakes.

Many local agencies offer 24-hour fast-track registration, meaning you could complete the process in just one day.

Step 4 The Registration Process Explained

Here’s a breakdown of the typical steps

Step 1 Approve Your Company Name

Submit your preferred name through ACRA’s website. Approval is usually instant.

Step 2 Prepare Registration Documents

Gather all necessary documents, including the Company Constitution, ID proofs for directors and shareholders, and address verification. Foreign applicants may also need to provide passport copies, proof of residence, and authorization letters.

Step 3 Submit the Application

Use the BizFile+ platform to file your registration. This requires a digital signature from a registered filing agent.

Step 4 Wait for Approval

ACRA usually approves applications within one working day, assuming all documents are in order.

Step 5 Post-Registration Tasks

Open a Corporate Bank Account Popular local banks include DBS, OCBC, and UOB.

Apply for Business Licenses Required for certain industries like food, education, or finance.

Register for Taxes Register with IRAS for your Unique Entity Number UEN and GST if applicable.

Get Company Seal and Letterhead Useful for official documents and invoices.

Step 5 Cost and Timeline

Registration fees typically range from S$800 to S$2,000, depending on the service provider and the complexity of your company structure. If all documents are ready, the entire process can be completed in as little as one day.

Note If you don’t have a local resident director, you may need to apply for an Employment Pass or use a Nominee Director Service offered by some agencies. This adds to the cost but is often necessary for compliance.

Step 6 Why Choose Singapore?

Beyond the streamlined registration process, Singapore offers several compelling advantages

Low Tax Rates Corporate tax tops out at 17%, with tax exemptions on the first S$300,000 of profits.

Top-Notch Business Environment Singapore consistently ranks among the best places to do business globally, according to the World Bank.

Strong Financial System With a mature banking and capital market infrastructure, it’s easy to manage international transactions.

Strategic Location Positioned at the heart of Southeast Asia, Singapore serves as a gateway to the ASEAN market.

In 2025, Singapore also simplified visa procedures for foreign entrepreneurs and launched the EntrePass program, encouraging more global startups to set up here.

Final Thoughts

Registering a company in Singapore doesn’t have to be complicated. As long as you understand the process and prepare your documents properly, you can either do it yourself or rely on professional help to get the job done smoothly.

For entrepreneurs looking to expand internationally, Singapore is a smart and strategic choice. As globalization continues to connect markets, more and more businesses are setting their sights on this small but powerful city-state. And who knows-you might be the next success story.

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