Singapore Company Registration — Quick Summary (2025)
A practical overview of the requirements, steps, timeline, costs, and ongoing obligations when incorporating a company in Singapore.
1) What you need before you start
Key requirements
- Structure: Choose the right entity (most pick a Private Limited, “Pte. Ltd.”).
- Shareholders: At least one (up to 50 for Pte. Ltd.).
- Director: At least one locally resident director (nominee acceptable if you’re not relocating).
- Paid-up capital: From S$1 (you can increase later).
- Registered address in Singapore.
- Company secretary: Must be appointed and resident in Singapore.
Documents & decisions
- Unique company name and relevant SSIC business activity code.
- Constitution (company governing document).
- Particulars of shareholders, directors, and secretary.
- Registered address, share capital and distribution.
2) Step-by-step incorporation
- Pick your structure (often Pte. Ltd.) and confirm roles (shareholders, resident director, secretary).
- Reserve your name and select the correct SSIC code(s).
- Prepare documents: constitution, officer particulars, address, share capital.
- File online with ACRA via BizFile+ (usually quick if no extra approvals are needed).
- Sign incorporation docs and receive your UEN and business profile.
Note: Some activities require additional approvals or licensing (e.g., finance, education, employment agencies, travel, F&B).
3) After you’re incorporated
- Open a business bank account and separate company finances.
- Issue share certificates and maintain statutory registers (including beneficial ownership, where applicable).
- Apply for licences if your industry requires them.
- Consider GST registration if you meet thresholds or by choice.
- Set up bookkeeping, invoicing, and a calendar for statutory deadlines.
4) Ongoing compliance (annual)
- AGM / resolutions as required by your company type.
- Annual Return filing with ACRA (keep officer/share info current).
- Corporate tax filings with IRAS and maintain proper accounts.
- Keep your registered address, officers, and share changes updated promptly.
5) Foreign founders — your options
- Incorporate then apply for EP (Employment Pass) to work for your company.
- EntrePass for venture-backed/innovative businesses that meet MOM’s criteria.
- Run the company from abroad with a locally resident nominee director and a corporate secretary.
6) Timing & cost
- Timeline: Often within hours to a few days if documents are in order.
- Mandatory government fees (typical Pte. Ltd.): about S$315 (includes name reservation and incorporation).
- Professional services: Extra depending on whether you use a corporate service provider (for secretary, nominee director, compliance support, etc.).
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