How to Register a Company in Singapore? The Most Complete Guide!

In recent years, as Chinese companies accelerate their overseas expansion, Singapore has become the preferred registration destination for many entrepreneurs and investors due to its stable political environment, transparent legal system, favorable tax policies, and Chinese-friendly atmosphere. So, how can foreigners register a company in Singapore? What conditions need to be met? What is the process? This article will provide you with a detailed explanation of the entire process, truly achieving "mastering everything in one article".

Why Choose to Register a Company in Singapore?

The advantages of registering a Singapore company include:

🌏 Excellent international reputation: Singapore is globally recognized as one of the best countries for business environment
💰 Low tax burden: Corporate income tax is only 17% maximum, startups can enjoy tax exemptions
📈 Free flow of funds: No foreign exchange controls
👨‍💼 Immigration convenience: Can combine with self-employed EP application to achieve entrepreneurship + long-term residence
🧾 Clear compliance operations: Registration and annual audit processes are simple and transparent
💼 Chinese-friendly business environment: Chinese and English official languages are compatible, fast cultural adaptation

What Conditions Do Foreigners Need to Meet to Register a Company?

Foreigners can set up a Singapore company with 100% ownership, but need to meet the following basic requirements:

At least 1 local director (can hire a nominee director)
At least 1 shareholder (individual or company)
Local registered address (cannot use residential address)
Appoint a company secretary (must be appointed within 6 months of registration)
Minimum registered capital starting from S$1

Complete Process for Registering a Singapore Company

Company Name Verification and Application
Log in to the ACRA (Accounting and Corporate Regulatory Authority) platform to check for name duplication, avoid conflicts with existing companies, name reservation period is 120 days.
Prepare Company Registration Documents
Including:
- Company name
- Director and shareholder identification (passport, proof of address)
- Registered address
- Business scope (SSIC code)
- Registered capital and share allocation
- Company constitution (can use ACRA template)
Submit Registration Application to ACRA
Submit online, can be completed within 1 working day, may take several days if involving high-risk industries or special approvals.
Collect Registration Documents
After successful company registration, you will receive:
- Certificate of Incorporation
- Company registration information file BizFile
- Company constitution
Open Company Bank Account
You can choose remote account opening without visiting Singapore, but need to cooperate with the bank to complete video KYC or provide notarized documents. We can assist with account opening appointments and document preparation. Common banks include DBS, OCBC, UOB, etc.
Follow-up Compliance Operations
After registration, the company needs to complete the following matters on schedule:
- Appoint company secretary
- Register beneficial owners (RORA registration)
- Submit annual reports and tax filings annually
- If you need to apply for EP, self-employed EP, trademarks, business licenses, etc., you can also proceed subsequently

Registration Fee Reference (Taking Private Limited Company as Example)

Item	Estimated Cost (SGD)
Company name application	S$15
Company registration (government fee)	S$300
Local secretary service (1 year)	S$500
Local registered address (1 year)	S$360
Nominee director service (if needed)	S$2,400
Company bank account opening assistance	Depends on service content

⚠️ Note: If you need to apply for self-employed EP or use the company for immigration purposes, bank account activity, contracts, taxation, etc. must be compliant and genuine. It is recommended to operate under professional team guidance.

Frequently Asked Questions About Registering a Singapore Company

Q1: Can foreigners register a company without coming to Singapore?
A: Yes, the registration process can be completed entirely online. Bank account opening and EP applications can also be done remotely. Banks usually arrange video verification or require notarized documents.

Q2: How long after registration can you officially operate?
A: Generally, registration can be completed within 1-2 working days. After receiving the registration documents, you can issue invoices, conduct business, and apply for account opening.

Q3: Can you open RMB accounts?
A: Yes. Most Singapore banks offer multi-currency accounts, supporting collection and settlement in major currencies including RMB, SGD, USD, etc.