Start your business in one of the world’s most business-friendly countries. Here’s everything you need to know.
1. Types of Business Structures
- Private Limited Company (Pte Ltd): Separate legal entity, limited liability, 1–50 shareholders, at least one resident director, annual compliance required.
- Sole Proprietorship: Owned by one individual, unlimited liability, low-cost setup.
- Partnership: 2–20 partners, unlimited liability, taxed at personal rate.
- Limited Liability Partnership (LLP): Separate legal entity, 2+ partners, limited liability.
- Limited Partnership (LP): At least one general and one limited partner, not a separate legal entity.
2. Prerequisites for Registration
- Company Name: Must be unique and approved by ACRA
- Shareholders: 1–50 (individuals or corporations)
- Directors: At least one resident director
- Company Secretary: Appoint within 6 months
- Registered Address: Local physical address
- Paid-Up Capital: Minimum S$1
3. Step-by-Step Registration
- Name Reservation: Via BizFile+ (S$15 fee)
- Document Preparation: Gather shareholder, director, and business info
- Submission: Apply through BizFile+ with S$300 registration fee
- Incorporation: Receive UEN and digital certificate within 1–2 business days
4. Required Documents
- Identification and proof of address for shareholders and directors
- Business activities (SSIC codes)
- Company constitution
- Share capital and ownership details
5. Timeline & Costs
- Timeline: Name approval on the same day; registration in 1–2 business days
- Costs: Name application S$15, registration fee S$300
- Total Government Fees: S$315
- Additional Services: Company secretary, nominee director, address, and bank account setup (optional)
6. Post-Registration Requirements
- Appoint company secretary
- Open corporate bank account
- Apply for business licenses (if applicable)
- Hold AGMs, file annual returns and tax forms
- Register for GST if revenue exceeds S$1M
- Make CPF contributions for employees
7. Foreign Entrepreneurs
- Local Director: Appoint a nominee, relocate, or use director services
- Visa Options: EntrePass, Employment Pass, Global Investor Programme
- Banking: In-person verification may be required; prepare a business plan
8. Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Choosing the wrong business structure
- Failing to secure an appropriate company name
- Incomplete documentation
- Overlooking required licenses
- Ignoring ongoing compliance duties
- Working with unqualified service providers
9. Key Takeaways
- Private Limited Company is the preferred structure
- Fast and affordable registration via ACRA BizFile+
- Only S$315 in government fees
- Foreigners must appoint a local director or relocate
- Post-registration compliance is essential
FAQs
- 1. Can a foreigner register a company in Singapore?
- Yes, foreigners can register a company but must appoint a local director or relocate using a valid pass.
- 2. What is the most common company structure?
- The Private Limited Company (Pte Ltd) is the most popular due to its flexibility and limited liability.
- 3. How long does it take to register a company in Singapore?
- Typically 1–2 business days after name approval and document submission.
- 4. Do I need to be in Singapore to register a company?
- No, you can appoint a corporate service provider like Stars Bridge to handle the process.
- 5. What are the main post-registration requirements?
- Appoint a company secretary, open a bank account, file annual returns, and fulfill tax and CPF obligations.
Need Help with Company Registration in Singapore?
Stars Bridge is your trusted partner for company incorporation and compliance in Singapore. We offer tailored services to help locals and foreigners set up businesses seamlessly.
📧 Email: enquiry@starsbridge.com
📞 Call/WhatsApp: +65 9380 7956
Let us help you register and grow your business in Singapore today.