Complete Guide to Singapore Pte Ltd Incorporation

Singapore consistently ranks as one of the world's easiest places to do business. With its strategic location, robust legal framework, and business-friendly policies, it serves as the perfect gateway to Asia-Pacific markets.

• 100% foreign ownership allowed
• Flat 17% corporate tax rate (one of the lowest in the world)
• No capital gains tax
• Strong intellectual property protection
• Extensive network of 90+ double taxation agreements
• Political stability and efficient government

Foreign companies can establish operations in Singapore through several structures. The Private Limited Company (Pte Ltd) is the most popular choice for foreign entrepreneurs due to its flexibility and limited liability protection.

• Private Limited Company (Pte Ltd) - Most recommended for foreign businesses
• Branch Office - Extension of foreign parent company
• Representative Office - For market research only, no commercial activities
• Sole Proprietorship - For individuals, unlimited liability

Setting up a Singapore Pte Ltd is straightforward with these minimum requirements:

• At least 1 shareholder (can be individual or corporate, any nationality)
• At least 1 director who is a Singapore resident (citizen, PR, or work pass holder)
• Minimum paid-up capital of SGD 1 (no maximum limit)
• A registered office address in Singapore
• A company secretary (must be appointed within 6 months)
• Unique company name approved by ACRA

Foreign entrepreneurs must engage a registered Corporate Service Provider (CSP) to handle the incorporation as direct registration via BizFile+ requires SingPass authentication.

• Step 1: Choose and reserve your company name (120-day reservation)
• Step 2: Prepare incorporation documents
• Step 3: Submit application through CSP to ACRA
• Step 4: Receive Certificate of Incorporation (2-3 business days)
• Step 5: Open corporate bank account
• Step 6: Apply for necessary licenses and permits

Prepare these documents before starting the incorporation process:

• Passport copies of all directors and shareholders
• Proof of residential address (utility bill, bank statement)
• Company constitution (can use standard template)
• Board resolution for corporate shareholders
• Brief description of business activities

The total cost for basic incorporation starts from approximately SGD 315 (ACRA filing fee) plus CSP service fees. Most applications are processed within 2-3 business days.

• ACRA name application fee: SGD 15
• ACRA incorporation fee: SGD 300
• CSP service fees: SGD 300-1,500 depending on provider
• Registered address: SGD 200-500/year for virtual office
• Company secretary: SGD 200-600/year

Important changes effective from 2025 that all companies should be aware of:

• Corporate Service Providers Act 2024 requires all CSPs to be ACRA-licensed (effective June 2025)
• All companies must maintain a Register of Controllers
• New entities must submit nominee director information at incorporation
• Extended 7-day window for updating controller particulars (up from 2 days)
• Increased penalties up to SGD 25,000 for non-compliance