{"id":73965,"date":"2024-02-17T15:30:02","date_gmt":"2024-02-17T07:30:02","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/glutenfreepleasure.com\/__proxy_domain\/www.3ecpa.com.sg\/?p=73965"},"modified":"2026-10-05T10:49:04","modified_gmt":"2026-10-05T02:49:04","slug":"starting-a-business-in-singapore-making-it-seamless","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/glutenfreepleasure.com\/__proxy_domain\/www.3ecpa.com.sg\/blog\/starting-a-business-in-singapore-making-it-seamless\/","title":{"rendered":"Starting a Business in Singapore: Making it Seamless"},"content":{"rendered":"

[vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]Starting a business in Singapore<\/b><\/a> begins with registering your company through ACRA using the Bizfile+ portal, selecting a suitable business structure, and meeting statutory compliance requirements from day one. Singapore’s pro-business tax regime, full foreign ownership allowance, and digital-first regulatory system make incorporation fast, often completed within one working day for straightforward applications.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

This guide explains the exact registration steps, how to choose between a sole proprietorship, partnership, or private limited company, how to <\/span>apply for business licences<\/b><\/a> online, and the compliance obligations every new company must meet.<\/span><\/p>\n

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How Do I Register a New Company in Singapore With ACRA?<\/b><\/h2>\n

Company registration in Singapore<\/b><\/a> is fully digital through<\/span> Bizfile+<\/span><\/a>, ACRA’s online filing portal. The process typically follows five steps:<\/span><\/p>\n

Step 1: Reserve your company name\u00a0<\/b><\/h3>\n

Submit your proposed name for ACRA approval; once approved, it is reserved for 120 days.<\/span><\/p>\n

Step 2: Prepare incorporation details<\/b><\/h3>\n

This includes <\/span>registered office address<\/b><\/a>, particulars of directors, shareholders, and the company constitution (ACRA’s model constitution or a customised version).<\/span><\/p>\n

Step 3: Submit the application via Bizfile+<\/b><\/h3>\n

All position holders must endorse the application before payment, unless filed through a registered corporate service provider.<\/span><\/p>\n

Step 4: Pay the registration fee<\/b><\/h3>\n

Total cost is S$315 (S$15 name application + S$300 incorporation), payable by card, PayNow, or digital wallet.<\/span><\/p>\n

Step 5: Receive your UEN and Certificate of Incorporation<\/b><\/h3>\n

Straightforward applications are approved within hours to one working day; complex structures or foreign notarisation requirements can extend this timeline.<\/span><\/p>\n

Foreigners without Singpass access must engage a registered filing agent, such as a licensed corporate service provider, to submit the application on their behalf.<\/span><\/p>\n

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What Are the Legal Requirements to Start a Business in Singapore?<\/b>\u00a0<\/b><\/h2>\n

When starting a business in Singapore, legal requirements must be met before diving into the world of entrepreneurship. One of the most crucial steps is registering the company with the Accounting and <\/span>Corporate Regulatory Authority (ACRA)<\/a>. Registration is essential for legitimising your business and obtaining a <\/span>Unique Entity Number (UEN)<\/a>, which will be needed for future dealings with government agencies.<\/span><\/h3>\n

Another legal requirement to consider is obtaining the necessary permits and licenses. Depending on the nature of your business, different licenses might be needed to operate legally, such as a food shop license for those in the food and beverage industry<\/a>, or an activated Singapore Customs account for businesses importing or exporting goods. That account uses the company’s Unique Entity Number (UEN), which replaced the Central Registration (CR)<\/a> number in 2009.<\/p>\n

For foreign entrepreneurs looking to start a business in Singapore, certain regulations must be followed. These include appointing at least one local resident director<\/a>, registering the company with a local address, and obtaining an EntrePass<\/a>, which allows foreign business owners to live and work in Singapore.<\/p>\n

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What Are the Statutory Compliance Requirements After Incorporation?<\/b><\/h2>\n

Singapore enforces strict post-incorporation compliance. Key obligations include:<\/span><\/p>\n