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Many thanks to Setbharatbiz. We had an excellent experience working with its expert. They have a strong sense of professionalism when dealing with clients.

Mudassir CEO, Twinfinty DigiTech Solutions

We would recommend Setbharatbiz incorporation services to any founder without a second doubt. The process was beyond efficient and shows Setbharatbiz founder's vision

Nagasrinivas Director,Prakash Nagasrinivas & Saradhy Associates

I was searching for a company for assistance in the incorporation services. Then one of my friend tell me about Setbharatbiz and definitely the Setbharatbiz is the best.

Prakash Kakani Director, PNS EV Hub

Overview

Singapore Company Registration

Singapore is one of the world’s top business destinations due to its strategic location, stable economy, and business-friendly regulatory environment. Registering a business in Singapore involves choosing an appropriate business structure, with the most popular types being Private Limited Companies (Pte Ltd), Sole Proprietorships, and Limited Liability Partnerships (LLPs). A Private Limited Company is the preferred structure for most businesses as it offers limited liability, tax advantages, and access to government incentives. The Accounting and Corporate Regulatory Authority (ACRA) oversees the business registration process in Singapore, ensuring compliance with the Companies Act.

Why Registration is Important

  1. Legal Recognition : Provides formal legal status to operate and access local business resources and government support.
  2. Limited Liability Protection : Safeguards personal assets by limiting liability to the company’s invested capital (for Private Limited Companies).
  3. Tax Advantages : Access to attractive tax incentives, including tax exemptions for startups and a low corporate tax rate.
  4. Enhanced Credibility : Boosts trust among clients, suppliers, and financial institutions, facilitating smooth business operations.
  5. Access to Funding : Enables businesses to attract investors and apply for government grants and funding schemes.

Types of Business Entities

  1. Private Limited Company (Pte Ltd) : A separate legal entity with shareholders who are protected by limited liability. This structure is ideal for scalability, offering tax advantages, ease of ownership transfer, and eligibility for government grants.
  2. Sole Proprietorship : The simplest business structure, owned by a single individual.While easy to set up, it offers no liability protection, meaning personal assets are at risk..
  3. Limited Liability Partnership (LLP) : A partnership structure where partners have limited liability. LLPs provide flexibility for professional services, allowing partners to manage their own taxation and liability independently.
  4. Public Limited Company : This is typically used by larger businesses intending to go public and list on the stock exchange. It requires a more complex setup and higher

Documents Required

For Local and Foreign Individuals (Directors, Shareholders):

For Corporate Entities (Shareholders)

For Company Registration



Procedures

  • Choose Business Structure
    Select the appropriate structure based on liability, tax benefits, and ownership needs. A Private Limited Company (Pte Ltd) is most common for foreign investors and small-to-medium businesses
  • Check Name Availability
    Ensure the desired business name is unique and complies with ACRA’s guidelines. You can reserve the name online with ACRA if it’s available
  • Appoint Directors and Company Secretary
    A Private Limited Company requires at least one resident director (Singapore citizen, PR, or holder of an Employment Pass). A qualified company secretary must be appointed within six months of incorporation.
  • Register with ACRA
    : File the incorporation application with ACRA via the BizFile+ online portal. Submit all necessary details, including directors, shareholders, and company secretary information
  • Obtain Certificate of Incorporation
    Once ACRA approves the application, you’ll receive the Certificate of Incorporation, which officially establishes your business.
  • Open a Corporate Bank Account
    With the incorporation documents, open a corporate bank account in Singapore to manage business finances
  • Apply for Licenses and Permits
    Depending on the business type, you may need additional licenses (e.g., Food & Beverage, Import/Export). Verify requirements based on your industry.
  • Register for Taxes
    Compliance with Ongoing Requirements
    Register for Goods and Services Tax (GST) if your annual revenue exceeds SGD 1 million, and apply for a Central Provident Fund (CPF) account if you have employees.


Features

Features & Benefits of registering a business in Singapore

100% Foreign Ownership
Foreigners can own 100% of the shares in a Singapore Private Limited Company
Prev Next
Attractive Tax Regime
Singapore has a low corporate tax rate of 17%, with various tax incentives and exemptions available for startups and small businesses.
Prev Next
Ease of Incorporation
The company registration process is efficient, typically completed within a few days.
Prev Next
Strategic Location
Singapore’s strategic location in Southeast Asia makes it an ideal hub for businesses targeting Asian markets.
Prev Next
Stable Political and Economic Environment
Singapore offers a highly stable and transparent business environment with strong legal protections for businesses.
Prev Next

Singapore Company Registration

Double Taxation Avoidance Agreements
Singapore has DTAs with many countries, providing tax relief and minimizing double taxation.
Prev Next
Skilled Workforce
Singapore has a highly skilled and educated workforce, making it an attractive location for businesses needing specialized talent.
Prev Next
Access to Funding
Singapore offers a variety of funding options for businesses, including venture capital, government grants, and startup incubators.
Prev Next
Efficient Legal System
Singapore’s well-established legal framework provides reliable dispute resolution and strong protection of intellectual property rights.
Prev Next
Full Repatriation of Profits
Businesses in Singapore can fully repatriate profits and capital, allowing for greater financial flexibility.
Prev Next


Comparison of Private Limited Company (Pte Ltd), Sole Proprietorship, Partnership (General/LLP), Branch Office And Representative Office

Feature Private Limited Company (Pte Ltd) Sole Proprietorship Partnership (General/LLP) Branch Office Representative Office
Legal Status Separate legal entity Not a separate legal entity Not a separate legal entity Not a separate legal entity Not a separate legal entity
Liability Protection Limited liability No liability protection No liability protection (except LLP) Liability extends to parent company Liability extends to parent company
Ownership Restrictions Up to 50 shareholders Single owner Two or more partners Foreign parent company Foreign parent company
Taxation Corporate tax rate (17%) Taxed at personal income rate Taxed at personal income rate Taxed on Singapore-sourced income Not applicable (no income generated)
Fundraising Ability High Low Moderate Low None
Compliance Requirements High Low Moderate High Low


Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between an LLC and a Corporation?

Yes, foreigners can register a company in Singapore and own 100% of the shares. However, at least one director must be a resident of Singapore.

How long does it take to register a company in Singapore?

The company registration process typically takes 1-3 days if all documents are in order.

Do I need a local address to register a company in Singapore?

Yes, a local registered address is required for company registration in Singapore. PO boxes are not accepted.

What is the minimum capital requirement to start a company in Singapore?

The minimum paid-up capital for a Private Limited Company in Singapore is SGD 1.

Is it mandatory to appoint a company secretary in Singapore?

Yes, every Singapore company must appoint a company secretary within six months of incorporation.

What are the ongoing compliance requirements for a company in Singapore?

Companies must file annual returns, hold Annual General Meetings (AGMs), and maintain proper financial records. They must also comply with tax filing requirements.

Singapore Company Registration

Overview

Singapore Company Registration

Singapore is one of the world’s top business destinations due to its strategic location, stable economy, and business-friendly regulatory environment. Registering a business in Singapore involves choosing an appropriate business structure, with the most popular types being Private Limited Companies (Pte Ltd), Sole Proprietorships, and Limited Liability Partnerships (LLPs). A Private Limited Company is the preferred structure for most businesses as it offers limited liability, tax advantages, and access to government incentives. The Accounting and Corporate Regulatory Authority (ACRA) oversees the business registration process in Singapore, ensuring compliance with the Companies Act.

Why Registration is Important

  1. Legal Recognition : Provides formal legal status to operate and access local business resources and government support.
  2. Limited Liability Protection : Safeguards personal assets by limiting liability to the company’s invested capital (for Private Limited Companies).
  3. Tax Advantages : Access to attractive tax incentives, including tax exemptions for startups and a low corporate tax rate.
  4. Enhanced Credibility : Boosts trust among clients, suppliers, and financial institutions, facilitating smooth business operations.
  5. Access to Funding : Enables businesses to attract investors and apply for government grants and funding schemes.

Types of Business Entities

  1. Private Limited Company (Pte Ltd) : A separate legal entity with shareholders who are protected by limited liability. This structure is ideal for scalability, offering tax advantages, ease of ownership transfer, and eligibility for government grants.
  2. Sole Proprietorship : The simplest business structure, owned by a single individual.While easy to set up, it offers no liability protection, meaning personal assets are at risk..
  3. Limited Liability Partnership (LLP) : A partnership structure where partners have limited liability. LLPs provide flexibility for professional services, allowing partners to manage their own taxation and liability independently.
  4. Public Limited Company : This is typically used by larger businesses intending to go public and list on the stock exchange. It requires a more complex setup and higher

Documents Required

For Local and Foreign Individuals (Directors, Shareholders)

For Corporate Entities (Shareholders)

For Company Registration

Procedures

  • Choose Business Structure
    Select the appropriate structure based on liability, tax benefits, and ownership needs. A Private Limited Company (Pte Ltd) is most common for foreign investors and small-to-medium businesses.
  • Check Name Availability
    Ensure the desired business name is unique and complies with ACRA’s guidelines. You can reserve the name online with ACRA if it’s available.
  • Appoint Directors and Company Secretary
    A Private Limited Company requires at least one resident director (Singapore citizen, PR, or holder of an Employment Pass). A qualified company secretary must be appointed within six months of incorporation
  • Register with ACRA
    File the incorporation application with ACRA via the BizFile+ online portal. Submit all necessary details, including directors, shareholders, and company secretary information
  • Obtain Certificate of Incorporation
    Once ACRA approves the application, you’ll receive the Certificate of Incorporation, which officially establishes your business.
  • Open a Corporate Bank Account
    With the incorporation documents, open a corporate bank account in Singapore to manage business finances.
  • . Apply for Licenses and Permits
    : Depending on the business type, you may need additional licenses (e.g., Food & Beverage, Import/Export). Verify requirements based on your industry
  • Register for Taxes
    Register for Goods and Services Tax (GST) if your annual revenue exceeds SGD 1 million, and apply for a Central Provident Fund (CPF) account if you have employees.

Features

Features & Benefits of registering a business in the Singapore

100% Foreign Ownership

Foreigners can own 100% of the shares in a Singapore Private Limited Company.

Attractive Tax Regime

Singapore has a low corporate tax rate of 17%, with various tax incentives and exemptions available for startups and small businesses.

Ease of Incorporation

The company registration process is efficient, typically completed within a few days.

Strategic Location

Singapore’s strategic location in Southeast Asia makes it an ideal hub for businesses targeting Asian markets.

Stable Political and Economic Environment

Singapore offers a highly stable and transparent business environment with strong legal protections for businesses.

Double Taxation Avoidance Agreements (DTAs)

Singapore has DTAs with many countries, providing tax relief and minimizing double taxation.

Skilled Workforce

Singapore has a highly skilled and educated workforce, making it an attractive location for businesses needing specialized talent.

Access to Funding

Singapore offers a variety of funding options for businesses, including venture capital, government grants, and startup incubators.

Efficient Legal System

Singapore’s well-established legal framework provides reliable dispute resolution and strong protection of intellectual property rights.

Full Repatriation of Profits:

Businesses in Singapore can fully repatriate profits and capital, allowing for greater financial flexibility.

Comparison of Private Limited Company (Pte Ltd), Sole Proprietorship, Partnership (General/LLP), Branch Office And Representative Office

Feature Private Limited Company (Pte Ltd) Sole Proprietorship Partnership (General/LLP) Branch Office Representative Office
Legal Status Separate legal entity Not a separate legal entity Not a separate legal entity Not a separate legal entity Not a separate legal entity
Liability Protection Limited liability No liability protection No liability protection (except LLP) Liability extends to parent company Liability extends to parent company
Ownership Restrictions Up to 50 shareholders Single owner Two or more partners Foreign parent company Foreign parent company
Taxation Corporate tax rate (17%) Taxed at personal income rate Taxed at personal income rate Taxed on Singapore-sourced income Not applicable (no income generated)
Fundraising Ability High Low Moderate Low None
Compliance Requirements High Low Moderate High Low

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between an LLC and a Corporation?

Yes, foreigners can register a company in Singapore and own 100% of the shares. However, at least one director must be a resident of Singapore.

How long does it take to register a company in Singapore?

The company registration process typically takes 1-3 days if all documents are in order.

Do I need a local address to register a company in Singapore?

Yes, a local registered address is required for company registration in Singapore. PO boxes are not accepted.

What is the minimum capital requirement to start a company in Singapore?

The minimum paid-up capital for a Private Limited Company in Singapore is SGD 1.

Is it mandatory to appoint a company secretary in Singapore?

Yes, every Singapore company must appoint a company secretary within six months of incorporation.

What are the ongoing compliance requirements for a company in Singapore?

Companies must file annual returns, hold Annual General Meetings (AGMs), and maintain proper financial records. They must also comply with tax filing requirements.