What Do You Need to Register Your Company in Singapore?

Before filing for your new company, get these components ready:

Company Name

As approved by ACRA. The name is reserved for 120 days upon approval.

Resident Director

You must appoint at least one director who is "ordinarily resident" in Singapore (eg: Singapore Citizen, Permanent Resident, or select work pass holder). For foreign entrants, this is a critical requirement often fulfilled by engaging a nominee director service.

Shareholders

A minimum of one shareholder is required. Shareholders can be foreign or local, or simply corporate bodies. For startups, you will need to design a share structure that accommodates future funding rounds (e.g., preference shares).

Company Secretary

A qualified, Singapore-resident Company Secretary must be appointed within six months. This is a legal requirement, and the role is crucial for ongoing compliance.

Data Protection Officer

All Singapore companies must appoint a data protection officer (DPO) to develop privacy policies and oversee data governance. You may utilise Mezzanine Enterprise’s DPO-as-a-Service solution to appoint a DPO.

Registered Address

A physical Singapore address is mandatory for your registered office. P.O. boxes are not permitted. Virtual office services are a common solution.

Initial Capital

A minimum paid-up capital of SGD1 is required. A higher amount may be necessary for operational needs and to enhance corporate credibility.

How Much Does it Cost to Register a Company with ACRA?

Registering your company will cost you SGD 300. The name application is separately billed, costing you SGD 15.

What is the ACRA Filing Process?

In Singapore, an efficient, digital-first approach is used to simplify incorporation. The entire process is handled via the BizFile+ online portal.

Step 1: Company Name Approval

Submit your proposed name for approval. This is typically cleared within an hour unless it requires review by a referring authority.

Step 2: Prepare Incorporation Documents

Compile these key documents:

• Company Constitution: This document governs your company's internal management.

• Director and Secretary Consent Forms: Signed declarations from the appointed officers.

Step 3: Submit the Incorporation Application

File the application on BizFile+ with all director, shareholder, and company details. Upon approval, ACRA will issue a Notice of Incorporation via email. This notice includes your company's Unique Entity Number (UEN), serving as your official certificate of registration.

What Common Mistakes Do Startups and Foreign Companies Make?

It’s easy to make mistakes when incorporating your company, especially if it’s your first time. Here are a few of the most common pitfalls that could potentially ensue:

• Incorrect Share Structure: This occurs when you set up a basic structure that complicates future venture capital funding rounds or employee stock option plans (ESOPs).

• Underestimating the Resident Director Rule: Foreign teams often face delays by not having a plan for the mandatory resident director role.

• DIY Compliance Errors: Small mistakes in filings or missed deadlines can create significant issues that surface during investor due diligence or regulatory checks.