Guide to to Register a Private Limited Company in Singapore

If you’re exploring international markets for your next business venture, Singapore should absolutely be on your radar. It’s one of the world’s most business-friendly destinations, especially for entrepreneurs looking to establish a company with limited liability and high growth potential.

Registering a private limited company in Singapore is one of the most strategic moves you can make. Not only does it enhance your brand credibility, but it also provides legal separation between you and your business — a crucial factor for both risk management and scalability.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through every step of the private limited entity formation process, clarify Singapore Private Limited Company requirements, and share tips to make the registration process smooth and compliant.

Why Choose a Private Limited Company?

Singapore offers several business structures, but a private limited company (Pte Ltd) is the most preferred option — both for locals and foreigners. Why?

• It has a separate legal identity, which means your personal assets are protected.

• It allows full foreign ownership.

• It enjoys attractive tax benefits, including exemptions for new startups.

• It offers long-term scalability for growth, investment, or even public listing.

So whether you’re a solopreneur launching a new venture or an established business expanding into Asia, private limited company formation in Singapore offers flexibility and security.

Step-by-Step Guide to Registering a Private Limited Company in Singapore

Let’s break the process down into clear, actionable steps.

Step 1: Choose Your Company Name

Start with reserving your company name through ACRA’s BizFile+ portal. The name must be:

• Unique and not similar to any existing registered company

• Free from vulgar or prohibited terms

• Not infringing on any trademarks

Approval typically takes less than 24 hours unless the name requires review by another agency.

Step 2: Understand the Legal Requirements

Before moving forward, ensure you meet the following Singapore Private Limited Company requirements:

• At least one shareholder (can be an individual or corporate entity, local or foreign)

• At least one local resident director (Singapore citizen, PR, or Employment/EntrePass holder)

• A qualified company secretary appointed within 6 months of incorporation

• A local registered address (no P.O. boxes allowed)

• Minimum paid-up capital of SGD 1 (can be increased later)

These are mandatory conditions for private limited entity formation in Singapore, so it’s important to check these off early.

Step 3: Prepare Incorporation Documents

You’ll need to submit several documents when registering a private limited company in Singapore. These include:

• Company constitution (you can use the standard version provided by ACRA)

• Details of directors, shareholders, and company secretary

• Registered address

• Business activity code (SSIC) that defines your company’s main operations

• Identification documents (e.g., passport and proof of address for foreigners)

If you’re using a corporate services provider, they’ll usually handle document preparation on your behalf.

Step 4: Submit Application via BizFile+

You can register your Singapore company online using ACRA’s BizFile+ system, or have it handled by a registered filing agent. Once submitted, registration typically takes 1 to 3 working days, assuming all documents are in order.

After approval, ACRA will issue:

• Certificate of Incorporation

• Business Profile (contains your company’s registration details)

This is the official confirmation that your company is legally incorporated.

Step 5: Open a Corporate Bank Account

Once your company is registered, it’s time to open a corporate bank account. Most major banks in Singapore — such as DBS, UOB, OCBC, and international options like HSBC — support business accounts for Pte Ltd companies.

Requirements vary slightly, but generally include:

• Certificate of Incorporation

• Business Profile

• Board Resolution to open the account

• Identification documents for directors and signatories

Some banks may require in-person visits, while others allow remote onboarding through partner agents.

Step 6: Register for Goods and Services Tax (GST) If Applicable

If your company’s taxable turnover exceeds SGD 1 million annually, you must register for GST. This allows you to collect GST on your goods and services and claim input tax credits.

You can also voluntarily register for GST if your clients require a GST-registered supplier or if it benefits your business model.

Step 7: Stay Compliant with Ongoing Requirements

After incorporating your private limited company, it’s important to stay on top of compliance. Here's what to keep in mind:

• Annual returns must be filed with ACRA

• Annual general meetings (AGMs) are required unless exempt

• Corporate tax filings must be submitted to IRAS

• Changes in company structure (e.g., directors or shareholders) must be reported to ACRA

Working with a corporate secretarial service can help you meet these obligations effortlessly.

Benefits of Working with a Local Service Provider

While it’s possible to handle private limited company formation in Singapore yourself, most foreign entrepreneurs choose to partner with a local firm. Here’s why:

• Expert guidance on compliance

• Assistance with nominee director services

• Seamless filing of documents and licenses

• Support for visa applications (e.g., Employment Pass, EntrePass)

A service provider not only helps with registering a private limited company in Singapore but also ensures your business starts on the right legal footing from day one.

Conclusion

Registering a private limited company in Singapore is a powerful step toward building a strong and credible presence in Asia. The process is straightforward, but getting the legal and operational details right from the start can save you time, money, and stress in the long run.

By understanding the key steps and requirements — from name reservation to incorporation, banking, and compliance — you can confidently move forward with your plans. Whether you’re incorporating from abroad or already based in Singapore, the city-state offers one of the smoothest environments for private limited entity formation.

We hope this step-by-step guide helps you get started with clarity. And remember, you don’t have to do it alone — the right partner can make your Singapore business journey seamless and successful.

FAQs

1. How much does it cost to register a private limited company in Singapore?
The official ACRA registration fee is SGD 315. However, if you work with a corporate service provider, the total cost may range between SGD 800 to SGD 2,000, depending on the package and services included.

2. Can a foreigner be the sole shareholder and director of a Singapore private limited company?
Yes, a foreigner can own 100% of the shares. However, there must be at least one local resident director to meet the legal requirements.

3. How long does it take to register a company in Singapore?
If all documents are in order, the process typically takes 1 to 3 business days through ACRA’s BizFile+ portal.