How To Register A Company In Singapore?

We manage company registration in Singapore, taking care of legal compliance, documentation, and post-registration tax filings.

Our experts assist with business name approval and document submission for UEN registration, based on your entity type.

Registering A Company In Singapore For Foreigners - An Overview

Singapore is among the leading destinations to initiate a business, particularly if you aim to globalize. Thanks to its strong but business-friendly investment and trade regulations, it ranks among the world's top places for doing business. Business owners are required to register companies to operate lawfully. On the bright side, registering a new company in Singapore is relatively easy and cost-effective.

Singapore was ranked second in the 2020 Ease of Doing Business Report, making it a popular choice for both locals and foreigners to set up a company. Nevertheless, Singaporean law stipulates that foreign individuals or businesses cannot register a company by themselves. They must engage the services of a local expert or firm to finalize the registration.

Types Of Business Entities In Singapore

Here’s a simple overview of the different types of business entities for company formation in Singapore:

1. Private Limited Company

2. Limited Liability Company

3. Subsidiary Company

4. Branch Office

5. Representative Office

Private Limited Companies Incorporation In Singapore

A private limited company is a separate legal entity from its directors and owners, and they have limited liability for the debts and losses of the company. The owner may also hold property under this form of entity.

It implies that the company can hold assets, and its owners are liable for its debts only up to their shares. It is a common business form because of limited liability protection.

To establish a Private Limited Company, you require a minimum of one shareholder (individual or corporation), one resident director, one company secretary, and a local registered address. The minimum capital required is only one Singapore dollar.

The Minimum Setup Requirements:

a) At least one individual or corporate shareholder.

b) One resident director.

c) One company secretary.

d) A registered local address in Singapore.

e) Minimum paid-up capital of 1 Singapore dollar.

Setting Up A Subsidiary Company In Singapore

A subsidiary company is a private limited company owned by an external business entity, which can hold up to 10% of the company. Subsidiaries in Singapore enjoy the same benefits as local private limited companies.

To register a subsidiary in Singapore, you can either apply for a work permit and relocate, or appoint a nominee director and manage the business remotely.

Minimum Setup Requirements:

• One individual or corporate shareholder

• One resident director

• One company secretary

• Paid-up capital of 1 Singapore dollar

• Registered local address

Branch Office Setup In Singapore

A branch office is a foreign company's extension in Singapore. As it's a non-resident, it doesn't get the same tax benefits that local private limited companies enjoy. If your company intends to shift base or send staff to Singapore for business purposes, you would have to apply for a Singapore company incorporation employment pass.

Minimum Requirements:

• Local agent

• Registered address

• Corporate shareholder

Representative Office Setup In Singapore

A representative office is a short-term arrangement, permitted for a maximum of three years. It allows foreign firms, such as Indian ones, to briefly set up shop in Singapore in order to feel out the market and get in touch with local distributors. For relocating employees, you will need to seek a Singapore incorporation employment pass.

Minimum Requirements:

• For companies registration from India, annual sales turnover must exceed $250,000.

• The company must have been operating for at least three years.

• No more than five employees can be assigned to the representative office.

What Documents Are Needed To Register Your Business In Singapore?

To register your company in Singapore, you'll need to provide the following documents:

• Company name

• Brief description of business activities

• Shareholders' details

• Directors' details

• Registered address

• Company secretary's details

• Memorandum of Association (MOA)

• Articles of Association (AOA)

Note:

• For non-residents (foreigners): Copy of passport, proof of overseas address, and KYC details such as a bank reference letter or business profile.

• For Singapore residents: Copy of Singapore identity card.

Key Factors For Company Registration In Singapore

• Liability/Legal Entity
  When choosing a business structure, understanding liability is crucial. It’s beneficial for both the owner and the company to be separate legal entities, as this limits personal responsibility for the company's debts.

• Growth Potential
  Every business aims to grow over time. Therefore, owners need to consider which structure will help them expand into new markets or offer new products and services.

• Setup Costs
  For startups, it's essential to think about the available capital when planning to register a business in Singapore.

FAQs About Registering A Company In Singapore:

Q1: What types of business structures can I register in Singapore?
You can register various business structures, including Private Limited Company, Sole Proprietorship, Partnership, and Limited Liability Partnership (LLP).

Q2: What are the basic requirements to register a company in Singapore?
To register a company, you typically need a unique company name, at least one director who is a resident in Singapore, a registered address, and a company secretary.

Q3: How long does the company registration process take?

The registration process in Singapore is usually quick and can be completed within a day if all documents are in order. However, it may take longer if additional approvals are needed.

Q4: Are there any capital requirements for registering a company?
Yes, the minimum paid-up capital for a Private Limited Company in Singapore is SGD 1. However, higher capital may be required depending on the type of business.

Q5: Do I need to be a Singapore resident to register a company?
No, you do not need to be a Singapore resident to register a company, but you must appoint at least one local resident director and a local registered address.

Q6: What documents are required for company registration?
Required documents include the company name, a description of business activities, details of shareholders and directors, a registered address, and the Memorandum and Articles of Association.

Q7: Do I need a business license to operate in Singapore?
Depending on your business activities, you may need specific licenses or permits to operate legally in Singapore. It's essential to check with relevant authorities to ensure compliance.