Steps for Singapore Business Registration

In this informative guide, we have explained the entire procedure in 6 easy steps on how to complete Singapore business registration and what considerations you must be aware of.

Singapore’s pro-business environment, robust infrastructure, and strategic location make it an attractive destination for entrepreneurs looking to establish a business. From the various kinds of businesses suitable for registration to the step-by-step procedure, important criteria, benefits of online registration from India, and an overview of taxes, this comprehensive guide will provide aspiring entrepreneurs with valuable insights into the process of Singapore company registration.

Kinds of Business for Singapore Company Registration

Singapore offers various types of business structures suitable for entrepreneurs, including

1. Sole Proprietorship: Suitable for individual business owners with minimal regulatory requirements.
2. Partnership: Ideal for businesses with two or more partners who share responsibilities and profits.
3. Limited Liability Partnership (LLP): Combines the benefits of partnerships and limited liability companies, providing partners with limited liability protection.
4. Private Limited Company (Pte Ltd): The most common and widely used business structure, offering limited liability protection for shareholders.

Important Criteria for Singapore Business Registration

To register a business in Singapore, entrepreneurs must meet certain criteria, including

1. Company Name: The proposed name should be unique, not offensive, and comply with naming guidelines set by the Accounting and Corporate Regulatory Authority (ACRA).
2. Resident Director: At least one director must be a Singaporean citizen, permanent resident, or Employment Pass/Dependant’s Pass holder.
3. Registered Address: A physical local address in Singapore is necessary for company registration.

Stepwise Procedure to Register Business in Singapore

The process of Singapore company registration involves the following steps:

1. Company Name Approval: Submit an application to ACRA to get the proposed company name approved.
2. Company Incorporation: Prepare the necessary documents, including the Memorandum and Articles of Association, and register the company with ACRA.
3. Appointing Company Officers: Appoint directors, shareholders, and a company secretary to fulfill legal requirements.
4. Opening a Bank Account: Open a corporate bank account with a local or international bank in Singapore.
5. Licenses and Permits: Obtain any relevant licenses or permits required for your specific business activities.

Benefits of Online Singapore Business Registration from India

Entrepreneurs from India can take advantage of online Singapore company registration, which offers several benefits, including:

1. Convenience: Registering online saves time and effort, eliminating the need for physical visits to government offices.
2. Ease of Communication: Online platforms facilitate smooth communication with registration authorities and provide updates on the registration process.
3. Document Management: Submitting documents online ensures seamless record-keeping and access to registration-related information.
4. Global Accessibility: Entrepreneurs from India can initiate the registration process from anywhere in the world with an internet connection.

Taxes in Singapore

Singapore’s tax regime is known for its simplicity and competitive rates. Key aspects of Singapore’s tax system include:

1. Corporate Income Tax: The current corporate tax rate is 17%, one of the lowest in the world.
2. Goods and Services Tax (GST): The standard GST rate is 7%, levied on the supply of goods and services in Singapore.
3. Personal Income Tax: The progressive personal income tax rates range from 0% to 22%, depending on income levels.

 Singapore Business Registration

There are several steps involved in setting up a business in Singapore. You will need to choose a company structure, fill out necessary documents, and know about the law and penalties.

Let’s cover some points on what’s required to register a company, the penalties for failing to do so, and how to choose the best structure for your business. There are a few additional things you should know as well, so keep reading for helpful tips.

1. Understanding the Requirements of a Singapore Business Registration

If you’re planning to start a business in Singapore, you should understand the requirements. Certain businesses require licenses, and industries such as retail, construction, trading and shipping, spas, and medical clinics require specific licenses. 

To obtain a license, businesses must meet the requirements laid out by the regulators that oversee your business. The application process is straightforward, and companies that meet the requirements should have no trouble getting one. You Can Apply for Singapore Business Registration.

While Singapore’s regulations may seem overwhelming, it’s important to note that they are much lower than those in other countries. The government has simplified the processes for complying with these rules, resulting in a much lower compliance burden for companies. Those who wish to start a business in Singapore should understand the requirements of the city-state, so they can be sure they’ll meet the needs and be ready for any eventuality.

2. How to Select a Company Name in Singapore

The process of selecting a company name in Singapore can be a complicated one. You cannot use certain words, and they are either used by the government authorities or require permission to use them. 

However, choosing a suitable name for your company without using those words won’t be that tough. After that, you can submit it via ACRA’s BizFile system electronically. Once you get the approval, the incorporation of your company will be able to proceed further.

3. Types of Companies You Can Register in Singapore

There are three main types of companies you can register in Singapore: 

• private limited company
• subsidiary
• representative office. 

A subsidiary business entity operates under a parent company. 

On the other hand, a representative office has no legal status but is registered for marketing or research purposes. After a company is registered in Singapore, all shareholders must meet to determine whether they wish to appoint a director or other company officials.

There are many benefits and disadvantages to each of these business entities. It is important to understand which one suits you the best since each type has different advantages and disadvantages. Therefore, choose your business type wisely before you start incorporating your company in Singapore. You Can also Know about the Process of Company Registration in Singapore Online in 2023.

4. Choosing a Company Structure

Whether you’re planning to start your own small business or expand your existing business, choosing a company structure is crucial to the success of your new venture. Our Experts Will help you for Singapore Business Registration in quick steps!

The right structure can make running your business much easier, and it will affect everything from tax rates to scalability to investors’ expectations. The business structure you choose is important because it affects the amount of taxes you must pay and the compliance duties you must fulfill.

In Singapore, one of the leading players in Company Registration is Singapore Company Incorporation, which offers a comprehensive range of services. It includes business licenses and immigration services. You may even decide to set up a representative office in Singapore, where you’ll be personally responsible for all business decisions.

Now you don’t have to worry about creating a company name. Use Vakilsearch Company Name Generator to view the list of available companies.

5. Documents Required for Business Registration in Singapore

You need to file several documents to complete Singapore business registration. The name of your business and the address you will use to keep your company registers must be approved by the relevant government authority. 

You can have a single resident director or more than one. The director must be a Singaporean or have valid employment or dependent pass. All directorships must be at least 18 years old and have no criminal records or bankruptcy. The director does not have to be a shareholder.

In addition to the share certificates, you will also need a share register to keep track of the number of shares. The ACRA will send you an email confirming your incorporation and a Company Registration Number. In Singapore, you will need this document to open a corporate bank account, sign an office lease agreement, and subscribe to essential services. 

You can still request a hard copy if you cannot find your certificate. Your company’s business profile will also contain important details, including your registered address, phone number, and website. Moreover, you can also get an email and a hosting web account from the ACRA.

6. Penalties for Not Registering a Business in Singapore

In Singapore, you must register your company to carry on business. Also, you should have a Singapore-registered office and open it to the public for at least 3 hours during business hours. If you change your registered office address, you must notify the Registrar of changes within 14 days. Penalties for non-compliance are steep and can include imprisonment for the CEO and other board members.

The government imposed new penalties for non-registration, including a fine of up to SGD5,000. Non-registered businesses can also face a daily penalty of up to SGD$100 if they do not file their annual returns and financial statements with the IRAS. In addition to penalties, a business must register with the IRAS’s new CRS and FATCA programs and have a comprehensive compliance strategy and internal policies.

FAQs

How can I register a business in Singapore?

To register a business in Singapore, follow these steps: Choose a business structure. Obtain approval for the company name. Prepare the necessary incorporation documents. Register the company with ACRA. Appoint directors, shareholders, and a company secretary. Open a corporate bank account and obtain necessary licenses and permits.

How to register a business in Singapore for Indian entrepreneurs?

Indian entrepreneurs can follow the same registration process as mentioned above. They may appoint a local resident director or apply for an Employment Pass if they wish to be the director themselves.

What documents are needed to register a company in Singapore?

The necessary documents for company registration typically include the Memorandum and Articles of Association, company constitution, identification documents of directors and shareholders, and proof of registered address.

How can a foreigner register a business in Singapore?

Foreigners can register a business in Singapore by appointing at least one local resident director or obtaining an Employment Pass/Dependant's Pass. They can also engage the services of a professional firm to act as the local director and provide company registration assistance.

Conclusion

Singapore’s conducive business environment, extensive trade networks, and favorable tax policies make it an ideal location for entrepreneurs to register their companies. By understanding the various business structures, meeting important registration criteria, and utilizing online registration from India, aspiring entrepreneurs can navigate the process with ease. Embracing the benefits of Singapore company registration opens doors to a world of opportunities and positions businesses for success in the dynamic and thriving Southeast Asian market.

Also, Read:

• Cost of Registering a Company in Singapore
• Register a Company in Singapore
• Enterpass for Business in Singapore