Setting up a company in Singapore has never been more attractive. With its pro-business policies, world-class infrastructure, low tax rates, and strong legal framework, Singapore continues to be a leading destination for entrepreneurs and foreign investors alike.

If you’re considering Company Registration Singapore, this in-depth guide outlines everything you need to know—from business structures and legal requirements to step-by-step procedures and compliance obligations. Whether you’re a local entrepreneur or a foreign investor, this article will help you get started with confidence.

Why Register a Company in Singapore?

Singapore offers one of the most conducive environments in the world for starting and scaling a business. Here are some key advantages:

Fast and easy incorporation process (usually 1–3 days)
Full foreign ownership permitted
Corporate tax capped at 17%
No capital gains tax
Access to ASEAN and global markets
Strong protection of intellectual property
Transparent regulatory environment

For startups, SMEs, and multinational corporations, Singapore serves as a strategic hub for business operations in Asia and beyond.

Business Structures Available in Singapore

Before you register your company, it’s important to choose the most suitable business structure. The most common options are:

1. Private Limited Company (Pte Ltd)

The most preferred and flexible structure, especially for growth-oriented businesses.

Separate legal entity
Shareholders have limited liability
Eligible for tax exemptions and government grants
Can have 100% foreign ownership

2. Sole Proprietorship

A simple and low-cost option for individual entrepreneurs.

Easy to set up and operate
Full control by the owner
Owner is personally liable for debts

3. Partnership

Owned by two or more individuals or entities.

General Partnership
Limited Partnership (LP)
Limited Liability Partnership (LLP)

Each has different liability and compliance obligations.

4. Branch Office

Set up by a foreign company to conduct business in Singapore.

Not a separate legal entity
Liabilities extend to the parent company

5. Representative Office

A temporary entity for market research or liaison work.

Cannot engage in commercial activities
No legal status

Requirements for Company Registration in Singapore

If you’re planning to set up a Private Limited Company, the following criteria must be met:

At least one shareholder (individual or corporate entity)
At least one local director who is a Singapore resident
A local registered office address
A qualified company secretary appointed within 6 months
Minimum paid-up capital of S$1

Foreign entrepreneurs can own 100% of the company but must appoint a local director. If you don’t have one, JSE Offices provides nominee director services that comply with ACRA regulations.

Step-by-Step Process for Company Registration in Singapore

Step 1: Choose a Unique Company Name

Your company name must be:

Unique and not already in use
Not infringing any trademarks
Not vulgar, religious, or inappropriate

Name applications are submitted via ACRA’s BizFile+ portal and typically approved within a day.

Step 2: Prepare the Required Documents

To incorporate your company, prepare the following:

Company Constitution (Memorandum & Articles of Association)
Identification and address details of directors/shareholders
Consent to Act as Director (Form 45)
Appointment of Company Secretary
Proof of registered business address

At JSE Offices, we handle the documentation and ensure everything is compliant.

Step 3: Submit to ACRA

Once your documents are ready, submit the incorporation application through BizFile+. In most cases, the company is registered within 1–3 working days.

Step 4: Receive the Certificate of Incorporation

Upon approval, ACRA will issue a Certificate of Incorporation and a Business Profile, both of which serve as official confirmation of your company’s existence.

Step 5: Open a Corporate Bank Account

You’ll need a corporate account to manage your finances. We help coordinate with major banks in Singapore to set up your account.

Post-Incorporation Responsibilities

Registering a company is just the beginning. You must also comply with several statutory obligations:

1. Appoint a Company Secretary

Every company must appoint a qualified company secretary within 6 months of incorporation.

2. Maintain a Registered Office Address

All companies must have a local registered address. JSE Offices provides compliant virtual office addresses.

3. Annual Filing Obligations

You must file:

Annual Returns with ACRA
Corporate Tax Returns with IRAS
Estimated Chargeable Income (ECI)

4. Accounting & Bookkeeping

Singapore companies are required to maintain proper accounting records and prepare unaudited financial statements unless exempted.

5. GST Registration

You must register for Goods and Services Tax (GST) if your taxable turnover exceeds S$1 million. Voluntary registration is also possible.

Can Foreigners Register a Company in Singapore?

Yes. Singapore fully allows 100% foreign ownership. However, you must:

Appoint at least one local director (we offer nominee director services)
Provide a registered local business address
Comply with Singapore’s laws and tax rules

You do not need to be physically present in Singapore to incorporate. Many foreign businesses use a corporate service provider like JSE Offices to handle the entire process remotely.

Why Choose JSE Offices for Company Registration?

We simplify the entire process of company formation so you can focus on your business goals. Here’s how we support your success:

✅ Fast Incorporation

We can register your company in just 1–3 days, depending on document readiness.

✅ Expert Advisory

Our team provides guidance on choosing the right structure, tax planning, compliance, and more.

✅ All-In-One Services

From incorporation and nominee directors to virtual offices and accounting, we handle every detail for you.

✅ Affordable Packages

Our transparent pricing ensures that you know exactly what you’re paying for—no hidden fees.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. How much does it cost to register a company in Singapore?

ACRA charges:

S$15 for name reservation
S$300 for company registration

Service provider fees vary depending on the level of support provided.

2. How long does it take to register a company?

Typically between 1 and 3 business days, provided that all documents are correctly submitted.

3. Can I register a company if I’m not in Singapore?

Yes. You can incorporate remotely. Our team will prepare the documents and submit them on your behalf.

4. What is the minimum capital requirement?

The minimum paid-up capital for a Private Limited Company is S$1. You can increase it at any time.

5. Is it mandatory to hire a company secretary?

Yes. A company secretary must be appointed within 6 months of incorporation. We provide this service as part of our registration package.

6. What if I don’t have a local director?

We provide compliant Nominee Director Services so you can fulfill this requirement without delay.

7. What documents are needed to register a company?

You’ll need:

Identity documents of directors/shareholders
Proof of local address
Consent forms
Company Constitution

We handle the preparation of all these documents for you.

Final Thoughts

Company registration in Singapore is a streamlined process—but it’s important to do it right. Choosing the correct business structure, complying with legal obligations, and filing on time are all critical to long-term success.

At JSE Offices, we make the process simple, transparent, and stress-free. From registration to full back-office support, we’re your reliable partner in establishing and growing your business in Singapore.

Contact JSE Offices today to register your company in Singapore and start building your future with confidence.