Company Registration in Singapore

Singapore is globally recognized as one of the easiest places to do business, thanks to its transparent regulatory system, low tax regime, world-class infrastructure, and strategic location in Asia. It consistently ranks among the top countries for business friendliness, innovation, and economic freedom.

The country attracts entrepreneurs, startups, and multinational corporations alike due to its robust legal framework, investor-friendly policies, and seamless company incorporation process. Singapore permits 100% foreign ownership and offers efficient online registration, often completed in just 1–2 working days.

Types of Business Entities for Company Registration in Singapore

Singapore offers a variety of business structures tailored to meet different operational needs and investment goals. Choosing the right type of entity is crucial for legal compliance, taxation, and management.

1. Private Limited Company (Pte Ltd)

• The most popular entity type in Singapore.

• Separate legal entity with limited liability for shareholders.

• Requires at least one shareholder and one director (director must be a resident of Singapore).

• Suitable for startups, SMEs, and foreign investors.

2. Sole Proprietorship

• Owned and managed by one individual.

• No separate legal entity; the owner is personally liable for debts.

• Simple and low-cost to set up but less suitable for larger businesses.

3. Partnership

• A business owned by two or more individuals.

• Partners share profits, losses, and liabilities.

• Does not have a separate legal entity from the owners.

4. Limited Liability Partnership (LLP)

• Combines the flexibility of a partnership with limited liability protection.

• Suitable for professional services and businesses with multiple partners.

5. Branch Office

• A foreign company can establish a branch to conduct business in Singapore.

• Not a separate legal entity; the parent company is liable.

6. Representative Office

• A temporary setup for market research or promoting the parent company.

• Cannot engage in commercial activities or generate income.

Eligibility Criteria for Company Registration in Singapore

Before registering a company in Singapore, the following eligibility requirements must be met to comply with local laws and regulations:

 1. Directors

• Minimum of one director who must be a resident of Singapore (Singapore Citizen, Permanent Resident, or Employment Pass holder).

• Additional directors can be foreign nationals.

• Directors must be at least 18 years old and not bankrupt or disqualified.

 2. Shareholders

• Minimum of one and maximum of 50 shareholders.

• Shareholders can be individuals or corporate entities.

• 100% foreign ownership is permitted.

 3. Company Secretary

• A qualified company secretary must be appointed within 6 months of incorporation.

• The secretary must be a resident of Singapore.

 4. Registered Office Address

• Must have a physical local address in Singapore (P.O. boxes are not allowed).

• This address is used for official correspondence.

 5. Paid-Up Capital

• Minimum paid-up capital of SGD 1.

• Higher capital may be required for certain regulated industries.

Procedure for Company Registration in Singapore

Registering a company in Singapore is a straightforward process, typically completed within 1 to 3 working days. Follow these steps to ensure a smooth incorporation:

Step 1: Choose a Company Name

• The name must be unique and not infringe on trademarks.

• The Accounting and Corporate Regulatory Authority (ACRA) must approve the name.

• Name reservation is valid for 120 days.

Step 2: Prepare Company Details

• Details of directors, shareholders, company secretary, and registered office address.

• Decide on share capital and share distribution.

• Draft the company’s constitution (formerly Articles of Association).

Step 3: Submit Incorporation Application

• File incorporation documents online through BizFile+, the official ACRA portal.

• Required documents include:

  • Name approval notice

  • Signed consent forms from directors and company secretary

  • Constitution of the company

• Pay the registration fee (typically SGD 315).

Step 4: Receive Certificate of Incorporation

• Upon approval, ACRA issues the Certificate of Incorporation confirming the company’s legal status.

Step 5: Post-Incorporation Compliance

• Register for Goods and Services Tax (GST) if turnover exceeds SGD 1 million.

• Apply for necessary licenses and permits depending on the business activity.

• Open a corporate bank account.

• Maintain statutory registers and hold annual general meetings (AGMs).

Various Taxes Applicable to Registered Companies in Singapore

Companies registered in Singapore are subject to a well-structured tax system known for its competitive rates and business-friendly policies. Understanding the key taxes is essential for compliance and effective financial planning.

 1. Corporate Income Tax

• Standard corporate tax rate is 17% on chargeable income.

• Partial tax exemptions and tax incentives may apply for startups and small companies.

• Singapore uses a one-tier tax system, meaning corporate profits are taxed once at the company level.

 2. Goods and Services Tax (GST)

• A consumption tax applied at 8% (as of 2023) on most goods and services.

• Companies must register for GST if their annual turnover exceeds SGD 1 million.

 3. Withholding Tax

• Applicable on payments to non-residents such as interest, royalties, and service fees.

• Rates vary depending on the nature of payment and applicable tax treaties.

 4. Property Tax

• Levied on property owners based on the annual value of the property.

• Rates differ for residential and non-residential properties.

Documents Required for Company Registration in Singapore

To successfully register a company in Singapore, the following documents must be prepared and submitted to the Accounting and Corporate Regulatory Authority (ACRA):

 1. Company Name Approval

• Proof of approved company name from ACRA.

 2. Consent to Act as Director

• Signed consent forms from all appointed directors confirming their acceptance of the role.

 3. Identification Documents

• Passport and proof of residential address (utility bill, bank statement, etc.) for all directors, shareholders, and company secretary.

 4. Company Constitution

• The document outlining the company’s rules and regulations (formerly known as Articles of Association).

 5. Registered Office Address

• Proof of a valid local registered office address in Singapore.

 6. Particulars of Shareholders

• Details including names, identification, nationality, and shareholdings.

 7. Statement of Share Capital

• Information about the number and value of shares issued.

Benefits of Company Registration in Singapore

Registering a company in Singapore offers numerous advantages for entrepreneurs and investors looking to establish a strong foothold in Asia. Here are some of the key benefits:

1. Strategic Location and Business Hub

• Singapore is a major gateway to Asia, offering excellent connectivity and access to regional markets.

 2. Favorable Tax Environment

• Low corporate tax rates and various tax incentives attract startups and multinational companies.

 3. 100% Foreign Ownership

• Foreigners can fully own and control their companies without needing local partners.

 4. Efficient and Fast Incorporation

• Company registration can be completed online within 1 to 3 working days.

 5. Robust Legal System

• Transparent and strong legal framework protecting intellectual property and business interests.

 6. Access to Global Financial Services

• Singapore is a global financial center offering a wide range of banking, funding, and investment options.

Why Choose YKG GLOBAL for Company Registration in Singapore?

At YKG GLOBAL, we provide comprehensive and reliable company registration services tailored to help you establish your business in Singapore smoothly and efficiently.

 1. Expert Local Knowledge

• Our team understands Singapore’s regulatory environment and corporate laws, ensuring full compliance.

 2. Fast and Hassle-Free Process

• We handle all paperwork and filings so your company can be incorporated quickly without delays.

 3. Global Reach, Local Expertise

• With experience in assisting clients worldwide, we combine international business insight with Singapore-specific expertise.

 4. End-to-End Support

• Beyond registration, we offer services like corporate secretarial support, tax advisory, and banking assistance.

 5. Personalized Customer Service

• Dedicated consultants guide you at every step, providing clear communication and prompt updates.

 6. Transparent Pricing

• Competitive and clear pricing packages with no hidden fees.