Incorporating a Company in Singapore as a Foreigner

Singapore welcomes foreigners who want to start a business. You can own 100% of the company without needing a local partner. To incorporate, you must appoint at least one local resident director — a Singapore citizen, permanent resident (PR), or someone with an eligible visa (like an EntrePass holder).

Why Choose Podwerx as your Corporate Secretary

Podwerx is an excellent choice for corporate secretary services, known for its dedication to professionalism and efficiency. We can set your company within 6 working days, subject to certain conditions. We are a certified Corporate Service Provider.

Expertise in Regulatory Requirements

We are well-versed in Singapore's Companies Act and ACRA regulations. Their knowledge ensures compliance and minimizes delays caused by incomplete or incorrect submissions.

Guide to Setting Up a Company in Singapore

Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you understand the essentials of incoporating a company:

A document on different types of business formations being read by a small business owner

Choose a Business Structure

Choose a Company Name

Fulfill Requirements on Shareholders

Fulfill Requirements on Director

Have a Registered Office Address

Decide on Share Capital

Engage a Corporate Secretary

Woman checking her orders before delivery

Know Your Customer (KYC) checks by corporate secretary

Incorporation of Company

Open a Corporate Bank Account

Key Requirements for Foreigners

Appoint a Local Director

Every Singapore-incorporated company must have at least one local director who is a Singapore citizen, Permanent Resident, or holder of an EntrePass, Employment Pass, or Dependent’s Pass. Foreigners can also serve as additional directors.

Corporate Secretary

A corporate secretary must be appointed within six months of incorporation to ensure compliance with Singapore’s Companies Act.

Registered Office Address

You need a local Singapore address as the company’s official registered office. P.O. box addresses are not permitted.

Shareholders

Foreigners can own up to 100% of the company shares. The minimum requirement is one shareholder, who can be an individual or a corporate entity.

Paid-Up Capital

The minimum required is SGD 1, making it highly cost-effective to incorporate.

Work Pass (If Relocation is Needed)

To relocate to Singapore and manage the business, you’ll need an EntrePass or Employment Pass.

Engage a Corporate Service Provider

Foreign individuals who do not reside in Singapore are required to work with a corporate service provider for incorporation and ongoing compliance needs.

Tax Registration (If Applicable):