10 min read
Singapore Company Setup: Complete Step-by-Step Checklist
Your comprehensive checklist for setting up a company in Singapore - from incorporation to operations.
Table of Contents
1
Pre-Incorporation Planning
Before starting the formal process, complete these preparatory steps:
- Define your business activities and target market
- Research industry-specific licenses required
- Identify at least one Singapore resident director
- Decide on company name (prepare 2-3 alternatives)
- Determine share structure and capital
- Choose a Corporate Service Provider (CSP)
- Gather passport copies and address proofs for all directors/shareholders
2
Week 1: Company Incorporation
The formal incorporation process with ACRA:
- Day 1: Submit name reservation application
- Day 1-2: Name approved and reserved (120 days)
- Day 2: Prepare and sign incorporation documents
- Day 3: Submit incorporation application via CSP
- Day 4-5: ACRA processes and approves (standard)
- Day 5: Receive Certificate of Incorporation
- Day 5: Company UEN (Unique Entity Number) issued
3
Week 2: Post-Incorporation Setup
Essential steps immediately after incorporation:
- Obtain certified ACRA business profile
- Open corporate bank account application
- Apply for CorpPass administrator account
- Register for GST if applicable (revenue > SGD 1M)
- Set up accounting system
- Arrange registered office services
- Order company seal (optional but recommended)
4
Week 3-4: Banking & Compliance
Complete banking setup and initial compliance:
- Attend bank account opening meeting
- Provide additional documents if requested by bank
- Receive bank account details and internet banking access
- Set up payroll system if hiring employees
- Apply for relevant business licenses
- Arrange corporate secretary services
- Set up financial year end date with ACRA
5
Work Pass & Immigration
If relocating to Singapore:
- Apply for EntrePass or Employment Pass
- Prepare business plan (EntrePass requirement)
- Gather supporting documents for visa application
- Wait for MOM processing (4-8 weeks typical)
- Upon approval, enter Singapore within validity
- Complete formalities and receive pass
- Apply for dependant passes if bringing family
6
Grant Applications
Apply for relevant government grants:
- Create Business Grants Portal account
- Research eligible grants for your industry
- Startup SG Tech: For technology commercialization
- Enterprise Development Grant: For business growth
- Productivity Solutions Grant: For IT solutions
- Prepare required documentation
- Submit applications early (competitive process)
7
Ongoing Compliance Reminders
Mark these dates in your calendar:
- Annual Return: Due within 7 months of FYE
- AGM: Hold within 6 months of FYE
- Corporate Tax: File by November 30 annually
- GST Returns: Quarterly (if registered)
- Financial Statements: Prepare before AGM
- Company Secretary: Appoint within 6 months
- Register of Controllers: Maintain and update
8
30-Day Launch Checklist Summary
Quick reference checklist for your first 30 days:
- Week 1: Company name reserved and incorporated
- Week 1: ACRA Certificate of Incorporation received
- Week 2: Bank account application submitted
- Week 2: CorpPass access obtained
- Week 3: Bank account opened and operational
- Week 3: Registered office confirmed
- Week 4: All essential compliance in place
- Week 4: Ready for business operations!
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