Private Limited Company Registration in Singapore- An Overview

Aspect Details
Timeline The timeline to obtain a Private limited company registration in Singapore takes around 5 to 10 working days.
Benefits

The benefits of obtaining online company registration in Singapore are as discussed below:

  • Limited Liability Protection
  • Exemption from Public Share Trading
  • Profit Sharing Flexibility
  • Perpetual Existence
  • Tax Efficiency
  • Enhanced Global Credibility
  • Ease of Foreign Ownership
  • Access to International Markets
Documents Needed

The documents needed to apply for a private limited company registration in Singapore are provided below:

  • Proposed Company Name
  • MOA and AOA
  • KYC Details of Directors
  • KYC Details of Shareholders
  • Business Activity Description
  • Other Documents
Eligibility Criteria

The eligibility criteria required for a private limited company registration in Singapore are as follows:

  • Must appoint a certified company secretary
  • Must hold a registered office address
  • Have a minimum of 1 director
  • Must have a maximum of 50 members
  • A local agent for foreign companies is required
  • A minimum paid-up capital of 1 Singaporean dollar
Types

The types of business structures in Singapore are as follows:

  • Exempt Private Company (EPC)
  • Private Company Limited by Shares
  • Unlimited Private Company
  • Unlimited Exempt Private Company
Top Businesses Seeking Private Limited Company Registration in Singapore

The top businesses seeking private limited company registration in Singapore are as follows:

  • Private Investment Holding Businesses
  • Import-Export Trading Businesses
  • Digital Marketing Agencies
  • Food & Beverage Outlets (Restaurants, Cafes, Catering)
  • Consultancy Firms (Business, Legal, Tax, HR)
  • Mobile Application & Web Development Firms
  • Financial Advisory & Corporate Services
  • E-commerce Startups (Dropshipping, Online Retailers)
  • Logistics & Courier Businesses
  • Health & Fitness Businesses (Gyms, Wellness Centers, Clinics)
Process

The process to obtain a full private limited company registration in Singapore is as follows:

  • Step 1: Reservation of Company Name
  • Step 2: Appoint a Local Director
  • Step 3: Preparation and Filing with the ACRA
  • Step 4: Receive Approval from ACRA
  • Step 5: Open a Corporate Bank Account
  • Step 6: Secure an Employment Pass
Post-Company Registration Compliance Requirements

The post-company registration compliance requirements are as follows:

  • Appointment of company secretary within 6 months of incorporation
  • Secure a local registered office address in Singapore
  • Hold an Annual General Meeting within 6 months after the end of their financial year
  • File annual return within 7 months of the financial year-end (FYE)
  • Prepare financial statement in compliance with Singapore Financial Reporting Standards (SFRS)
  • File an Estimated Chargeable Income (ECI) within 3 months of FYE
  • Ensure compliance with annual taxable turnover exceeding SGD 1 million
  • Maintenance of statutory registers and records
  • Secure necessary business licenses and permits (if required)
How Enterslice Can Help You?
  • 10+ years of experience in global company incorporation and business advisory
  • Successful incorporation of 1000+ private limited companies in Singapore
  • Team coordination, thereby making it easier to comply with legal obligations
  • Continuous support by a team of 100+ qualified company secretaries for AGM preparation
  • Provides annual bookkeeping services through our network of experts
  • End-to-end assistance throughout the registration process
  • Provides comprehensive due diligence services for making informed decisions
  • Technology-driven compliance management for accuracy and efficiency
  • Assistance with work visa applications, employment passes, and payroll structuring
  • Technology-enabled legal and compliance services
  • Strong local and global regulatory network
  • Provision of a local registered agent and address for one year
  • Offers transparent pricing with no hidden costs
  • Provides regular updates on legal and regulatory changes in Singapore

Your Partner for Pte Ltd Company Registration in Singapore

Let Enterslice assist you with Pte Ltd company registration in Singapore and establishing a strong presence in one of the world’s most dynamic economies.

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Understanding Pte Ltd Company Registration in Singapore

Singapore, one of the world’s top business destinations, offers entrepreneurs an ideal environment to start and scale their ventures. With its low tax rates, pro-business regulations, and strategic locations in Asia, Pte Ltd company registration in Singapore is a smart choice for global investors.

By registering a Pte Ltd company in Singapore, entrepreneurs gain access to a strong financial system, an innovation-driven ecosystem, and government incentives designed to promote business growth. At Enterslice, we make the process simple and seamless, with no long paperwork, no hidden charges, and full compliance with Singapore’s regulations.

Ranked as the world’s easiest place to do business

Corporate tax capped at 17% (with exemptions for startups)

0% capital gains tax

No dividend tax on shareholders

Extensive double taxation treaties with 80+ countries

100% foreign ownership permitted

Strategic gateway to Asian markets

Strong intellectual property (IP) protection

Robust financial and banking infrastructure

Government incentives for startups and innovation

Types of Private Limited Company in Singapore

The different types of private limited companies in Singapore are discussed below:

EPC

Exempt Private Company (EPC)

An exempt private company (EPC) is one of the common types of private companies, which ensures enjoying certain regulatory exemptions, such as reduced filing requirements and easier access to audit exemptions.

Private Company Limited by Shares

Private Company Limited by Shares

A private company limited by shares is one of the most common forms of company, offering limited liability protection, up to the amount unpaid on its shares.

Unlimited Private Company

Unlimited Private Company

An unlimited private company is a form of private limited company, where the shareholders have unlimited liability for all business debts and obligations.

Unlimited Exempt Private Company

Unlimited Exempt Private Company

An unlimited exempt private company is a mixture of an exempt private company and an unlimited private company, having unlimited shareholders’ liability, making it less attractive compared to an EPC.

How to Register Private Limited Company in Singapore?

The procedure to register private limited company in Singapore involves compliance with the following key steps, as discussed below:

Reservation of Company Name

The first step requires the entrepreneurs to check the name availability and secure a name reservation with the Accounting and Corporate Regulatory Authority (ACRA).

Appoint a Local Director

The next step requires the entrepreneurs to appoint a local nominee director if they are a foreign individual unable to meet the resident director requirements.

Preparation and Filing with the ACRA

In the next step, the entrepreneurs must prepare and file the necessary documents and incorporation application online via the ACRA’s BizFile+ portal.

Receive Approval from ACRA

Once all the documents are submitted, ACRA issues an email approval notification, confirming the incorporation of the company, with an official certificate of incorporation in Singapore.

Open a Corporate Bank Account

Upon successful compliance with all the necessary steps, the entrepreneurs must open a corporate bank account crucial for managing business finances and meeting tax obligations.

Secure an Employment Pass

Lastly, the entrepreneurs must secure an employment pass and other necessary licenses crucial for private limited company registration in Singapore.

Timeline to Form a Private Limited Company in Singapore

The timeline to form a private limited company in Singapore usually takes around 5 to 10 working days, varying based on the approvals and additional licensing requirements.

Company Name Reservation: Up to 2 Working Days

It takes up to 2 working days to secure a company name reservation with the ACRA.

Preparation of Incorporation Documents: 1 to 2 Working Days

It takes around 1 to 2 working days for the preparation of incorporation documents such as the application form, MOA, AOA, consent form, etc.

Filing with ACRA: 2 to 3 Working Days

It takes 2 to 3 working days to file the incorporation application with the online ACRA BizFile+ portal.

Post-Incorporation Registration: 1 to 3 Working Days

The time taken to secure post-registration incorporation takes around 1 to 3 working days.

Obtain Business Licenses and Permits: Varies

The time taken to obtain mandatory business licenses and permits varies based on the requirements, delays, and other factors.

Documents for Private Limited Company Registration in Singapore

Have a look at some of the documents needed for a private limited company registration in Singapore:

Details of the proposed company’s names

Memorandum and Articles of Association (M&AOA) of the company

A valid employment pass for all foreign members in the company

KYC particulars of all the directors and company secretaries

Details of the company’s constitution

Copy of the shareholder’s agreement

Description of the business activities

Details of the company’s office setup or any alternate address proof (if any)

Copy of bank reference letter

Advantages of a Private Limited Company Registration in Singapore

Securing the most popular business structure, a private limited company registration in Singapore offers multiple advantages for entrepreneurs and investors, as discussed below:

Ajman Business Incorporation

Limited Liability Protection

A private limited company registration in Singapore offers limited liability protection up to the amount unpaid on its shares.

Exemption from Public Share Trading

Unlike public companies, a private limited company is exempt from listing and trading its shares on the stock exchange, allowing more control over the company’s operations and ownership structure.

Profit Sharing Flexibility

The Singaporean Companies Act allows a private limited company to engage in profit-sharing activities, which helps distribute the return to shareholders, offering financial rewards based on the company’s success.

Perpetual Existence

A private limited company has perpetual succession, meaning it continues even after the winding up or any change in the partnership of the company.

Tax Efficiency

A private limited company registration in Singapore offers one of the lowest corporate tax rates, making it an ideal location with multiple tax exemptions and incentives.

Global Credibility

A private limited company registration in Singapore enhances business reputation and credibility, ensuring a well-recognized and stable business setup.

Ease of Foreign Ownership

Foreign entrepreneurs seeking private limited registration in Singapore can own up to 100% of the shares, provided they have at least one local director.

Access to International Markets

The entrepreneurs seeking private limited company registration in Singapore get access to its strategic location, strong trade agreements, and pro-business environment.

Requirements for Private Limited Company Registration in Singapore

The requirements for private limited company registration in Singapore are as discussed below:

  • Company Secretary: The entrepreneurs must appoint a certified company secretary, who must be a Singaporean citizen, within 6 months after its formation.
  • Registered Office Address: A registered office address used as a mailing address is required for private company registration in Singapore.
  • Minimum No. of Directors: A minimum number of 1 director, who is a permanent Singaporean resident, or a bearer of an Employment Pass, is required for private limited company registration in Singapore.
  • Maximum No. of Members: A private limited company in Singapore must have a maximum of 50 members, having limited liability up to the extent of their contribution in the business.
  • Local Agent: A local agent for foreign companies, who looks forward to setting up a branch office in Singapore, is required for private limited company registration in Singapore.
  • Minimum Paid-Up Capital: A minimum paid-up capital of 1 Singaporean dollar is required for private limited company registration in Singapore.

Industries & Businesses Permitted to Setup Pte Ltd in Singapore

The list of the top 10 industries and businesses permitted to setup Pte Ltd in Singapore is provided below:

Top 10 Industries Permitted to Setup Pte Ltd in Singapore

  • Financial Services & FinTech Industry
  • Information Technology & Software Development Industry
  • E-commerce & Online Retail Industry
  • Healthcare & Biotechnology Industry
  • Education & EdTech Industry
  • Tourism & Hospitality Industry
  • Logistics & Supply Chain Management Industry
  • Real Estate & Property Management Industry
  • Professional Services Industry
  • Manufacturing & Trade Industry

Top 10 Businesses Permitted to Setup Pte Ltd in Singapore

  • Private Investment Holding Businesses
  • Import-Export Trading Businesses
  • Digital Marketing Agencies
  • Food & Beverage Outlets (Restaurants, Cafes, Catering)
  • Consultancy Firms (Business, Legal, Tax, HR)
  • Mobile Application & Web Development Firms
  • Financial Advisory & Corporate Services
  • E-commerce Startups (Dropshipping, Online Retailers)
  • Logistics & Courier Businesses
  • Health & Fitness Businesses (Gyms, Wellness Centers, Clinics)

Post-Compliance Needs for Singapore Pte Ltd Company Registration

The post-compliance services for Singapore Pte Ltd company registration are as discussed:

  • Appointment of company secretary within 6 months of incorporation
  • Secure a local registered office address in Singapore
  • Hold an Annual General Meeting within 6 months after the end of their financial year
  • File annual return within 7 months of the financial year-end (FYE)
  • Prepare financial statement in compliance with Singapore Financial Reporting Standards (SFRS)
  • File an Estimated Chargeable Income (ECI) within 3 months of FYE
  • Ensure compliance with annual taxable turnover exceeding SGD 1 million
  • Maintenance of statutory registers and records
  • Secure necessary business licenses and permits (if required)
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Why Enterslice for Private Limited Company Registration in Singapore?

Choose Enterslice, which offers a seamless, reliable, and fully compliant private limited company registration in Singapore. With our expertise, the entrepreneurs and investors can expand into one of the world’s most business-friendly economies without worrying about legal and other regulatory hurdles.

  • 10+ years of experience in global company incorporation and business advisory
  • Successful incorporation of 1000+ private limited companies in Singapore
  • Team coordination, thereby making it easier to comply with legal obligations
  • End-to-end assistance throughout the registration process
  • Holds a robust panel of 40,000+ experts, lawyers, attorneys, CAs, and CPAs
  • Provides comprehensive due diligence services for making informed decisions
  • Technology-enabled legal and compliance services
  • Strong local and global regulatory network
  • Provision of a local registered agent and address for one year
  • Offers transparent pricing with no hidden costs
  • Provides regular updates on legal and regulatory changes in Singapore

FAQs on Private Limited Company Registration in Singapore

Have a look at the following answers to the most asked questions:

The process to register a private limited company in Singapore ensures compliance with the following steps, as discussed below:

  • Step 1: Reservation of Company Name
  • Step 2: Appoint a Local Director
  • Step 3: Preparation and Filing with the ACRA
  • Step 4: Receive Approval from ACRA
  • Step 5: Open a Corporate Bank Account
  • Step 6: Secure an Employment Pass

The tentative cost to register a private limited company in Singapore is around Singaporean $315, including a Singaporean $300 incorporation fee and Singaporean $15 for the company name reservation fees.

Yes, an Indian individual is eligible to register a company with 100% foreign ownership in Singapore.

The minimum paid-up capital needed for a private limited company registration in Singapore is Singaporean $1.

The time period to register a company in Singapore takes around 5 to 10 working days.

There isn’t a single, official annual filing fee charged by Singapore’s Accounting and Corporate Regulatory Authority. However, fees ranging from Singaporean $400 to Singaporean $500 are charged by service providers for the company’s AGM, unaudited financial statements, and annual return filing.

A Singaporean private limited company must have a minimum of 1 shareholder and a maximum of 50 shareholders, which can either be a foreigner or a corporation.

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