Company registration — Singapore

Company registration in Singapore — practical legal guidance

This page explains common steps, typical documents and practical considerations for registering a private limited company (Pte Ltd) in Singapore. The information is general guidance and not a substitute for tailored legal advice.

Indicative priceSGD 4,000 (indicative; final quote after scoping)
Typical timelineIncorporation possible same day; complete setup may take several weeks
Key regulatorACRA (Accounting & Corporate Regulatory Authority)

Standard incorporation overview

A typical private limited company setup in Singapore involves reserving a company name, preparing and filing incorporation documents with ACRA, appointing a company secretary and registered office, and arranging a CorpPass account for online filings.

What an indicative package often includes

  • Name availability search and ACRA filing for incorporation
  • Preparation of incorporation documents and Constitution
  • Company secretary appointment (statutory requirement)
  • Registered office address (local street address, 1 year)
  • CorpPass account registration guidance
  • Corporate records and basic compliance checklist

Note: the listed items are indicative. A firm engagement and a scope review are required before any firm estimate or binding commitment is provided.

Typical incorporation process (high level)

Below is a concise, practical sequence frequently used when assisting clients. Timings vary depending on document certification, licensing needs and third‑party steps.

1

Engagement & scope

Confirm engagement, agree scope, and identify any licences or special approvals that affect the schedule.
2

Due diligence & documents

Collect certified ID and address proofs for directors/shareholders and any corporate documents for corporate shareholders.
3

Name reservation

Search and reserve the company name with ACRA. Certain names/activities may need pre-approval.
4

Prepare incorporation papers

Draft Constitution, complete incorporation forms and prepare statutory records for signing.
5

Filing with ACRA

File incorporation documents. Incorporation may be completed quickly if no licences are required; other steps may take longer.
6

Post‑incorporation setup

Register CorpPass, arrange company kit, confirm company secretary and registered office, and prepare compliance calendar.

Common documents and requirements

The items below are commonly requested during incorporation. Exact requirements depend on the parties and the company structure.

Company name
Proposed name (provide alternatives). Names must comply with ACRA rules.
Share capital
Amount (minimum often SGD 1) and intended share allocation.
Director documents
Passport/NRIC and recent proof of address for each director. At least one director ordinarily resident in Singapore is required by law.
Shareholder documents
Passport and address proof for individual shareholders; corporate shareholders supply certificate of incorporation, constitution, and official list of officers.
Ultimate owners
Information for any ultimate beneficial owners owning more than 10% (if applicable).
Business details
Description of principal activities and any regulated activities that may require licences.

Frequently asked questions

How long does incorporation usually take?
If the name and activities do not need licences, incorporation may be completed quickly; full delivery of documents and post‑incorporation setup commonly takes several days to a few weeks depending on certification and any required approvals.
What does the indicative fee cover?
An indicative package may include ACRA filing, Constitution drafting, company secretary (first year), registered office (first year), CorpPass assistance and a basic company kit. Final scope and third‑party fees are confirmed on engagement.
Can a non‑resident own a Singapore company?
Yes. Shareholders can be foreign individuals or entities. A company must have at least one director who is ordinarily resident in Singapore; there are commercial solutions to meet this requirement when needed.
Is a company secretary required?
Yes. Singapore law requires appointment of a company secretary within six months of incorporation. The secretary handles statutory registers and filings.
Do I need to be in Singapore to open a bank account?
Bank requirements differ by institution. Some banks require one or more signatories to attend in person; others accept video or alternative verification. We can provide guidance and introduce banking options.

Start the conversation

To discuss a Singapore incorporation or to receive a tailored fee estimate, book a short consultation or email our enquiries address. We will confirm scope and next steps before any engagement.

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Legal-information disclaimer

This page provides general legal information about company registration in Singapore. It does not create a lawyer–client relationship, nor is it a substitute for specific legal advice tailored to your circumstances. For a scope review and binding fee estimate please use the booking link or email info@trw.org.