How to Register a Company in Singapore in 2026: Requirements, Procedures, and Expert Tips

Introduction

Singapore’s position as a premier global business hub isn’t accidental. Its transparent regulatory framework, robust legal and financial infrastructure, low corporate taxes, and strategic location in Asia make it one of the most attractive destinations for company incorporation.

According to the Accounting and Corporate Regulatory Authority (ACRA), Singapore’s business ecosystem now includes over 626,000 active entities across various structures, with more than 7,400 new business entities incorporated in January 2026 alone. In this guide, we have explained how to register a company in Singapore in 2026, including entity types, regulatory requirements, and post-incorporation compliance.

What Are the Key Benefits of Registering a Company in Singapore in 2026?

Incorporating in Singapore offers a combination of strategic, operational, and financial advantages:

1. Easy & Fast Incorporation 

Companies can be registered in 1–3 business days through ACRA BizFile+ for quick approval.

2. Favourable Tax Regime

Corporate tax is capped at 17%, with exemptions and allowances for startups and many types of companies and activities, and there is no capital gains, interest, dividend or inheritance tax. (IRAS Corporate Tax).

3. Global Credibility

Singapore incorporation provides international recognition, boosting trust with investors and partners.

4. Strategic Location

Singapore is within a 4-hour flight of most major Asian markets, providing access to regional trade hubs.

5. Full Foreign Ownership

Most company structures in singapore allow 100% foreign ownership, supported by a transparent legal and regulatory framework.

These benefits make Singapore an ideal base for regional and global operations, offering both operational efficiency and long-term stability.

Types of Business Entities Available in Singapore

Choosing the right business entity in singapore affects taxation, liability, and operational flexibility. Common options include:

1. Private Limited Company (Pte Ltd)
2. Limited Liability Partnership (LLP)
3. Sole Proprietorship
4. Branch Office
5. Representative Office

Comparison of Business Entities in Singapore

What Are the Requirements to Register a Company in Singapore?

To successfully register a company in Singapore, your business must meet several legal and operational requirements. These ensure compliance with the Accounting and Corporate Regulatory Authority (ACRA) and Singapore law.

1. Minimum Shareholders

A company must have at least one shareholder, who can be an individual or a corporate entity. There are no restrictions on nationality, allowing for full foreign ownership.

2. Paid-Up Capital

The minimum paid-up capital is S$1, which is sufficient to start most businesses. Companies can increase their share capital later by issuing additional shares.

3. Directors’ Requirements

• Age: Directors must be at least 18 years old; there is no upper age limit.
• Residency: At least one director must be a Singapore resident, which includes citizens, permanent residents, or Employment Pass holders.
• Foreign Directors: Non-residents can also be appointed as directors, allowing flexibility for international investors.

4. Company Secretary

A certified company secretary must be appointed within six months of company incorporation in Singapore. The secretary must be a natural person and a Singapore citizen or permanent resident.

5. Registered Office Address

Every company must maintain a local registered office address for statutory records. PO boxes are not accepted.

6. Company Name Approval

The government must approve the proposed company name before registration. Names must comply with ACRA guidelines and avoid prohibited or sensitive words. You can register a business name via Bizfile for $15.

Step-by-Step Process to Register a Company in Singapore

Registering a company in Singapore is a crucial step for entrepreneurs and foreign investors to make their business legally recognised by the Accounting and Corporate Regulatory Authority (ACRA).  Follow these simple steps to register your company in singapore:

1. Choose and Approve Your Company Name

• Select a unique, compliant company name for your Singapore business.
• The name must not be identical to or similar to that of existing companies.
• Submit the name via ACRA BizFile+ for approval.
• Name approval usually takes 1 business day, enabling quick registration.

2. Prepare Registration Details

Before registering, gather all required information for ACRA:

• Director and shareholder details
• Registered office address in Singapore
• Business activity description aligned with ACRA’s industry codes
• Company secretary appointment, or indicate intent to appoint within six months

3. Submit Your Registration via BizFile+

• Complete the Singapore company registration application online through BizFile+.
• Upload supporting documents, including IDs, address proof, and company constitution if applicable.
• Pay the standard registration fee of S$300.

After approval, ACRA issues a Unique Entity Number (UEN). Your company is now officially registered in Singapore and legally authorised to operate.

How Much Time Does It Take To Register A Singapore Company?

Singapore is renowned for its efficient and streamlined company registration process, making it one of the fastest jurisdictions globally for setting up a business. The duration of company registration depends on the accuracy of the submitted documents, the type of business structure, and any required regulatory approvals.

1. Company Name Approval: Typically completed within 1 business day, provided the proposed name meets ACRA’s compliance criteria.
2. Document Preparation: Gathering required information for directors, shareholders, and the registered office usually takes 1–2 business days.
3. ACRA Registration via BizFile+: Standard processing takes 1–3 business days to approve most Private Limited Companies (Pte Ltd).
4. Corporate Bank Account & Licenses: Opening a corporate bank account or obtaining industry-specific licenses may take 1–3 weeks, depending on the bank and regulatory authorities.

In short, the entire Singapore registration process can be completed in 3–5 business days, assuming all documentation is complete and compliant. 

Conclusion

Singapore’s unique blend of pro-business policies, regulatory transparency, competitive tax incentives, and strategic geographic location makes it a leading hub for global entrepreneurs in 2026.

Partnering with VIVOS and Business Hub Asia simplifies the process of starting and managing a business in Singapore, from registration and compliance to scaling operations. Our expert guidance helps businesses save time, reduce risks, and focus on growth opportunities both locally and across Asia.