Singapore ranks among the top global destinations for business, thanks to its investor-friendly regulations and robust trade laws. Foreigners looking to register a company in Singapore must do so through a local expert, as direct self-registration isn’t allowed. The process is simple, cost-effective, and highly efficient, with Singapore ranked 2nd in the Ease of Doing Business Report 2020.

Types of Singapore Business Entities

• Private Limited Company (Pte Ltd) – Most common and ideal for growth-oriented businesses.
• Limited Liability Partnership (LLP) – Suitable for professionals wanting shared ownership with limited liability.
• Subsidiary Company – A locally incorporated entity owned by a foreign parent company.
• Branch Office – An extension of a foreign company, not a separate legal entity.
• Representative Office – For market research or liaison activities; cannot conduct business or earn revenue.

Private Limited Company Formation in Singapore

A Private Limited Company (Pte Ltd) is a separate legal entity from its owners. Directors and shareholders have limited liability, and the company can own property in its name.

Minimum Requirements:

• 1 shareholder (individual or corporate)
• 1 resident director
• 1 company secretary
• Paid-up capital of SGD 1
• 1 registered local address

Limited Liability Partnership (LLP) in Singapore

An LLP combines the flexibility of a partnership with the benefits of limited liability. It operates as a separate legal entity from its partners.

Minimum Requirements:

• At least 2 partners
• 1 resident manager
• A registered business address

Subsidiary Company Setup in Singapore

A subsidiary is a locally registered private limited company owned by a foreign entity. It enjoys the same tax benefits as local firms.

Minimum Requirements:

• 1 shareholder (individual or corporate)
• 1 resident director
• 1 company secretary
• Paid-up capital of SGD 1
• A registered local address

Note: You may relocate with a work permit or appoint a nominee director.

Branch Office Formation in Singapore

A branch office is an extension of a foreign company and not a separate legal entity. It doesn’t qualify for local tax benefits.

Minimum Requirements:

• A foreign parent company (corporate shareholder)
• 1 local agent
• A registered address

To operate physically in Singapore, an employment pass is required.

Representative Office in Singapore

A Representative Office is a temporary setup for foreign companies exploring the Singapore market. It cannot conduct revenue-generating activities and is limited to three years.

Minimum Requirements:

• Annual sales > USD 250,000
• At least 3 years of establishment
• Max. 5 employees
• Employment pass required for relocation

Documents Required for Company Registration in Singapore

To register your company in Singapore, the following documents are needed:

• Proposed company name
• Description of business activities
• Shareholder details
• Director details
• Registered business address
• Company secretary details
• Memorandum of Association (MOA)
• Articles of Association (AOA)

For Foreign Nationals:

• Passport copy
• Proof of overseas residential address
• KYC documents (e.g., bank reference letter, business profile)

For Singapore Residents:

• Copy of Singapore NRIC (identity card)

Key Factors for Company Registration in Singapore

• Liability / Legal Entity
  Choosing a structure with limited liability is crucial. It protects personal assets by legally separating the owner from the business, limiting responsibility for debts.
• Growth Potential
  For long-term success, select a structure that supports expansion into new markets, services, or products.
• Setup Cost
  Startups must consider available capital before registering a company in Singapore, as costs can vary based on the chosen structure.

How Sperso Filings Helps You Register in Singapore

• At Sperso Filings, in partnership with Sperso Filings and the InCorp Group, we make Singapore company registration smooth, fast, and hassle-free. We’ve helped thousands of businesses like yours expand into global markets with ease.
• Our expert-driven approach removes paperwork and bureaucratic delays. From choosing the right business structure to handling documentation and post-registration compliance, we manage everything—so you can focus on growing your business.
• With a client-first, ethical, and efficient service model, Sperso Filings is your trusted partner in global expansion.