Company Registration In Singapore
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We makes setting up your business in Singapore smooth and efficient. Our expert consultants handle every step, from registration and legal compliance to essential accounting and finance paperwork, so you can focus on launching your business with confidence.
Why Singapore is the Right Choice for Your Business
Singapore is an ideal business hub in Asia, featuring strong intellectual property protection, a favorable tax structure, and an extensive network of trade agreements across more than 100 countries. Its strategic location and excellent connectivity offer a perfect springboard for companies looking to expand in Asia.
Whether starting a new company, opening a subsidiary, or establishing a branch, GlobalBiz Solutions offers the expertise to ensure seamless entry into this dynamic market.
Understanding the Singapore Company Registration Process
It must be noted that ACRA Singapore – the Accounting & Corporate Regulatory Authority of Singapore, mandates that all Singapore companies must be registered under the country’s Companies Act and abide by its rules and regulations.
- Fill Up The Form
- It must be noted that ACRA Singapore – the Accounting & Corporate Regulatory Authority of Singapore,
- Submit The Document
- It must be noted that ACRA Singapore – the Accounting & Corporate Regulatory Authority of Singapore,
- Pay Only Professional Fee
- It must be noted that ACRA Singapore – the Accounting & Corporate Regulatory Authority of Singapore,
- Get Your Company Registered
- It must be noted that ACRA Singapore – the Accounting & Corporate Regulatory Authority
Requirements For Starting a Company In Singapore
Singapore’s Accounting and Corporate Regulatory Authority (ACRA) requires that all businesses abide by the Companies Act. Key incorporation requirements include:
Minimum 1 Shareholder
At least 1 resident director
A company secretary
A registered local address
Minimum paid-up capital of SGD $1
How Our Platform Supports Your Business Setup
Through ACRA’s BizFile+ platform, businesses can complete the registration process online, submitting applications for a company name, incorporation documents, and registration fees. While most registrations take 15 minutes, applications requiring additional approval can take up to 60 days.
GlobalBiz Solutions makes the entire setup process seamless. From ACRA compliance to annual filings with Singapore’s Inland Revenue Authority (IRAS), we cover every requirement. We also manage payroll, accounting, and nominee directorship for non-resident clients.
Whether you’re a foreign entrepreneur needing full support or a local business owner seeking professional guidance, the GlobalBiz Solutions team is here to help.
Selecting the Right Business Structure
Singapore offers multiple business structures to suit various needs:
Private Limited Company (Pte Ltd)
A flexible structure with limited liability, ideal for growth-focused businesses.
Limited Partnership (LP)
Features a combination of general and limited partners, with liability based on partner roles.
Limited Liability Partnership (LLP)
Ideal for professional services, offering partnership flexibility and limited liability.
Sole Proprietorship
Suited for solo entrepreneurs, though it involves unlimited liability.
Company Limited by Guarantee (CLG)
Often used by non-profits with limited liability but no shares.
Variable Capital Company (VCC)
A versatile structure for investment funds with flexible capital arrangements.
Representative Office
Enables foreign companies to conduct market research without full incorporation.
Branch
Office
A local extension of a foreign company, providing a presence without a new legal entity.
Private Limited Company (Pte Ltd)
- One of the most popular and flexible business structures in the city-state is the Singapore Private Limited Company (Pte Ltd). This structure offers the following advantages to people starting a business in Singapore:
- Limited liability and separate legal entity, ensuring that shareholders’ liability is restricted to the capital amount they have contributed. This safeguards the personal assets of the shareholders in the event of financial challenges.
- Considered a dynamic, credible, and scalable structure that meets the requirements of a growing business.
- Provides flexibility in financing, operations, and management.
Limited Partnership (LP)
This particular company setup in Singapore is a business arrangement where there must be at least one general partner with unlimited liability and one or more limited partners whose liability is capped at their investment. This setup allows for separating management and investment roles, with the general partner handling daily operations.
It is a flexible structure, but it does not have a separate legal identity, meaning the partnership itself cannot own assets or sue. Registration with ACRA is required, and a partnership agreement is recommended to define the terms of the partnership.
Limited Liability Partnership (LLP)
For professionals in shared fields, a Limited Liability Partnership (LLP) might be a viable business structure. An LLP is a business structure that merges the flexibility of operating as a partnership with the advantages of limited liability, akin to that of a corporation. To establish an LLP, you will need to request a business name and officially register the LLP with ACRA.It is a flexible structure, but it does not have a separate legal identity, meaning the partnership itself cannot own assets or sue. Registration with ACRA is required, and a partnership agreement is recommended to define the terms of the partnership.
Additionally, a minimum of two partners must be appointed, and at least one manager must be a resident who is at least 18 years old. Let InCorp’s business incorporation services in Singapore help you streamline this process.
Sole ProPrietorship (SP)
Known for its simplicity in establishment and management, this business structure is designed for a single individual who assumes unlimited liability as the business and owner are legally indistinguishable. This is often the first step for individuals wondering how to start a company in Singapore.
Company Limited By Guarantee (CLBG)
This is a company entity commonly used for non-profit activities, such as charitable organisations and associations. Unlike companies limited by shares, where the liability of members is limited to the amount, if any, unpaid on the shares they hold, the liability of the members of a CLG is limited to the amount they have agreed to contribute to the assets of the company in the event of its winding up. This amount is usually specified in the company’s constitution. For non-profits exploring how to register a company in Singapore, this structure is often ideal.
Variable Capital Company (VCC)
A VCC is an innovative corporate structure introduced in Singapore to enhance the attractiveness of Singapore as a hub for fund management and domiciliation. It allows for a flexible capital structure, enabling shares to be issued and redeemed without having to alter the company’s constitution. This feature is particularly beneficial for investment funds, as it allows them to manage subscriptions and redemptions efficiently.
Representative Office
A Representative Office is an ideal setup for foreign companies looking to explore the viability of doing business in Singapore without committing to a full-fledged incorporation. This setup allows companies to conduct market research, understand the business environment, and facilitate meetings with potential clients and partners. Although a Representative Office cannot engage in commercial revenue-generating activities, it benefits from the prestige of a local presence and minimal compliance requirements. It serves as a low-risk entry strategy for companies considering long-term investment and operations in the vibrant Singaporean economy. Foreign company setup in Singapore often begins with establishing a Representative Office.
Branch Office/Foreign Branch
A branch office in Singapore functions as an extension of a foreign parent company, allowing for direct engagement in business activities within the region. The parent company remains liable for the branch’s actions and debts, necessitating careful consideration. To set up a branch office, at least one resident agent must be appointed to handle compliance, and the branch must have a registered Singapore address, ensuring adherence to local corporate regulations. This structure is often recommended by company formation consultants for foreign businesses needing a strong local presence.
Preparing for Incorporation
- Required documents include:
- Approved company name and constitution
- Appointed directors and shareholders
- Registered office address
- Consent forms from directors and shareholders
- Upon company name approval, these documents are submitted to ACRA for registration.
Post-Incorporation Essentials
Following registration, take the following steps:
Open a Corporate Bank Account
Obtain Business Licenses and Permits
Annual Returns Filing
Trademark Registration
Ready To Incorporate
As mandated by regulatory authorities across our operating jurisdictions, all business establishments must comply with local Companies Acts and regulatory frameworks. Global Bizz ensures your complete compliance across Singapore, Hong Kong, Australia, and Dubai.”
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What are the key requirements for setting up a company in Singapore?
To incorporate a business in Singapore, you need the following:
- Minimum of 1 shareholder
- 1 resident director
- 1 company secretary
- A local registered address
- Minimum paid-up capital of SGD $1
2. What documents are required for non-residents to incorporate a company?
Non-residents need:
- Passport
- Proof of residential address
- Bank reference letter
For Singapore residents:
- Singapore ID
- Passport for any foreign directors/shareholders
3. How long does it take to register a company in Singapore?
The online registration process typically takes around 15 minutes if all documents are in order. However, applications referred to other government agencies may take up to 60 days.
4. How much does it cost to incorporate a company in Singapore?
The cost varies based on factors such as business structure and additional services like nominee directors. Contact our team for a detailed pricing breakdown.
5. Do I need a local director to set up a company in Singapore?
Yes, at least one director must be a Singapore citizen, permanent resident, or a holder of a work pass (e.g., Employment Pass, EntrePass). If you’re a foreigner, you can appoint a nominee director to meet this requirement
