Company Registration in Singapore: A Complete Guide
Singapore has consistently ranked among the best places in the world to start and run a business. With its pro-business policies, strategic location in Asia, attractive tax regime, and transparent regulatory framework, Company Registration in Singapore has become a preferred choice for startups, SMEs, and global corporations alike.
If you are planning to expand internationally or launch a new venture in Asia, this comprehensive guide by Enterworld will walk you through everything you need to know about registering a company in Singapore—benefits, requirements, process, costs, and compliance.
Why Choose Company Registration in Singapore?
Before diving into the process, it’s important to understand why entrepreneurs worldwide prefer Company Registration in Singapore.
1. 100% Foreign Ownership
Singapore allows full foreign ownership in most business sectors. You don’t need a local partner to start your company.
2. Attractive Corporate Tax Structure
- Corporate tax capped at 17%
- Start-up tax exemptions available
- No capital gains tax
- No dividend tax
This makes Singapore one of the most tax-efficient jurisdictions globally.
3. Strategic Location
Located at the heart of Southeast Asia, Singapore provides access to major markets like China, India, Indonesia, Malaysia, and Australia.
4. Ease of Doing Business
Singapore consistently ranks among the top countries for ease of doing business due to:
- Fast incorporation process
- Transparent regulations
- Strong legal framework
- Efficient online registration system
5. Political and Economic Stability
The country offers a stable political climate and a robust financial system, making it highly attractive for international investors.
Types of Business Entities in Singapore
When considering Company Registration in Singapore, you must choose the right business structure. The most common types include:
1. Private Limited Company (Pte Ltd) – Most Popular
- Separate legal entity
- Limited liability for shareholders
- Eligible for tax exemptions
- Highly credible structure
Most foreign investors prefer registering a Private Limited Company.
2. Sole Proprietorship
- Owned by one individual
- No separate legal identity
- Unlimited liability
3. Partnership
- Shared ownership
- Partners share liabilities
4. Limited Liability Partnership (LLP)
- Separate legal entity
- Limited liability for partners
For international expansion and scalability, a Private Limited Company is generally the best option.
Key Requirements for Company Registration in Singapore
To proceed with Company Registration in Singapore, you must meet the following legal requirements:
Minimum Requirements:
- At least 1 shareholder (individual or corporate)
- At least 1 resident director (Singapore citizen, PR, or EntrePass holder)
- Minimum paid-up capital: SGD 1
- Registered local address in Singapore
- Company secretary appointed within 6 months of incorporation
Foreign entrepreneurs who do not have a resident director can appoint a nominee director through professional firms like Enterworld.
Step-by-Step Process for Company Registration in Singapore
Here is a simplified step-by-step overview:
Step 1: Choose Company Name
- The name must be unique
- It should not infringe trademarks
- It must be approved by the ACRA (Accounting and Corporate Regulatory Authority)
Approval usually takes a few hours unless additional review is required.
Step 2: Prepare Required Documents
You will need:
- Passport copy (for foreign directors/shareholders)
- Proof of residential address
- Company constitution (formerly Memorandum & Articles of Association)
- Details of shareholders and directors
Step 3: Appoint a Resident Director
Foreign entrepreneurs must appoint a resident director before incorporation.
Step 4: Register with ACRA
The company registration application is submitted online via BizFile+. Once approved, you will receive:
- Certificate of Incorporation
- Unique Entity Number (UEN)
The entire Company Registration in Singapore process can be completed within 1–2 working days if the documentation is in order.
Step 5: Open a Corporate Bank Account
After incorporation, the next step is opening a corporate bank account. Banks may require:
- Physical presence of directors
- Business plan
- KYC documents
Step 6: Apply for Business Licenses (If Required)
Some industries, such as finance, education, food & beverage, and healthcare, require additional licenses.
Cost of Company Registration in Singapore
The total cost varies depending on the services required. Typical expenses include:
- Government filing fees
- Professional service fees
- Nominee director services (if needed)
- Registered office address services
- Company secretary fees
While the government registration fee is relatively low, engaging a professional service provider like Enterworld ensures compliance, accuracy, and speed.
Tax Benefits After Company Registration in Singapore
Singapore’s tax incentives make it highly attractive:
Start-Up Tax Exemption Scheme
Newly incorporated companies can enjoy:
- 75% exemption on the first SGD 100,000 of chargeable income
- 50% exemption on the next SGD 100,000
Double Taxation Avoidance Agreements (DTAs)
Singapore has over 80 DTAs, reducing tax burdens on international income.
No Withholding Tax on Dividends
Shareholders can receive dividends tax-free.
Compliance Requirements After Registration
After successful Company Registration in Singapore, businesses must comply with ongoing obligations:
- Annual General Meeting (AGM): Must be held annually unless exempted.
- Annual Return Filing: Submit annual return to ACRA.
- Corporate Tax Filing: File Estimated Chargeable Income (ECI) and annual tax returns.
- Maintain Accounting Records: Companies must maintain proper financial records.
Failure to comply can result in penalties or fines.
Challenges in Company Registration in Singapore
While the process is straightforward, foreign entrepreneurs may face certain challenges:
- Resident Director Requirement: Finding a trustworthy resident director can be difficult without professional support.
- Bank Account Opening: Banks have strict compliance procedures, and approval may take time.
- Regulatory Compliance: Understanding Singapore’s corporate laws and filing requirements requires expertise.
This is where professional assistance becomes crucial.
Why Choose Enterworld for Company Registration in Singapore?
Enterworld specialises in international business setup and corporate services. When you partner with Enterworld, you receive:
- End-to-End Incorporation Support: From name approval to final incorporation certificate.
- Nominee Director Services: Reliable resident director solutions.
- Registered Office Address: Compliant local address services.
- Company Secretary Services: Ensuring you meet all statutory requirements.
- Bank Account Assistance: Guidance through the banking process.
- Ongoing Compliance Support: Annual filings, tax assistance, and advisory services.
With Enterworld, you save time, avoid errors, and ensure 100% regulatory compliance.
Timeline for Company Registration in Singapore
If all documents are ready:
- Name approval: Same day
- Incorporation: 1–2 business days
- Bank account opening: 1–4 weeks (depending on the bank)
Overall, you can launch operations within a short time frame.
Who Should Consider Company Registration in Singapore?
Singapore is ideal for:
- Tech startups
- E-commerce businesses
- Fintech companies
- Consulting firms
- Trading companies
- Holding companies
- Investors expanding into Asia
Its transparent regulations and tax-friendly policies make it a strong base for global expansion.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can a foreigner register a company in Singapore?
Yes. Foreigners can own 100% of the company but must appoint a resident director.
2. How long does company registration take?
Typically 1–2 working days if documents are complete.
3. What is the minimum capital requirement?
Only SGD 1 is required as the minimum paid-up capital.
4. Do I need to be physically present in Singapore?
Not necessarily for incorporation, but banks may require physical presence for account opening.
5. Is Singapore good for startups?
Absolutely. With tax incentives, funding opportunities, and a strong ecosystem, it is one of the best startup hubs globally.
Final Thoughts
Company Registration in Singapore is a strategic move for entrepreneurs looking to expand internationally, benefit from a competitive tax system, and operate in a stable, business-friendly environment.
From 100% foreign ownership to fast incorporation and strong legal protection, Singapore offers unmatched advantages for global business growth.
However, navigating legal requirements, compliance rules, and banking procedures can be complex without expert guidance. That’s why partnering with an experienced service provider like Enterworld ensures a smooth, compliant, and hassle-free setup process.
If you are ready to establish your presence in one of the world’s leading business hubs, now is the perfect time to begin your Company Registration in Singapore journey with Enterworld.
Start smart. Start strong. Start with Enterworld.