Company registration FAQ
Singapore & Malaysia
Welcome to our Company Registration FAQ, your trusted source for answers to the most common business compliance questions in Singapore and Malaysia. Whether you’re starting a company, managing annual filings, or seeking to understand tax regulations, this section offers up-to-date guidance based on official sources such as the Accounting and Corporate Regulatory Authority (ACRA) and Inland Revenue Authority of Singapore (IRAS) for Singapore, as well as the Companies Commission of Malaysia (SSM) and Inland Revenue Board of Malaysia (LHDN) for Malaysia.
Our company setup FAQ covers essential topics including company incorporation, tax obligations, annual returns, and ongoing compliance requirements for both Singapore and Malaysia. We strive to make business regulations in both countries clear and accessible, so you can focus on building and growing your company.
Browse the questions below or use the search function to find the information you need. If your question isn’t answered here, or if you require personalized advice, please contact us for professional support tailored to your needs in Singapore or Malaysia.
Welcome to our Singapore company registration FAQ, your trusted source for answers to the most common business compliance questions in Singapore. Whether you’re starting a company, managing annual filings, or looking to understand tax regulations, this section provides up-to-date guidance based on official sources like the Accounting and Corporate Regulatory Authority (ACRA) and the Inland Revenue Authority of Singapore (IRAS).
Our company setup Singapore FAQ covers essential topics, including company incorporation, tax obligations, annual returns, and ongoing compliance requirements. We aim to make business regulations in Singapore clear and accessible, so you can focus on growing your company.
Browse the questions below or use the search function to find the information you need. If your question isn’t answered here, or you require personalized advice, please contact us for professional support.
Singapore FAQ
What types of business entities can I register in Singapore?
Singapore offers various business structures, including sole proprietorships, partnerships, limited partnerships, limited liability partnerships, and private limited companies.
How do I register a company in Singapore?
You can register a company online through ACRA’s BizFile+ portal. Key steps include choosing a company name, preparing incorporation documents, and appointing directors and shareholders.
What is a Unique Entity Number (UEN)?
A Unique Entity Number (UEN) is a unique identification number issued to all entities registered in Singapore for transactions with government agencies.
What are my company’s annual compliance requirements?
Companies must hold annual general meetings (AGMs), file annual returns with ACRA, and submit corporate tax returns to IRAS by the stated deadlines.
Where do I find official information and updates on company regulations?
For the most accurate and current regulatory information, always check the official websites:
Do I need a company secretary and a registered office address?
Yes, every company in Singapore must appoint a company secretary within 6 months of incorporation and must have a registered office address in Singapore.
Can foreigners register a company in Singapore?
Yes, foreigners are allowed to register and own companies in Singapore. However, at least one director must be a Singapore resident (citizen, permanent resident, or EntrePass holder).
What is the minimum paid-up capital required to register a company?
The minimum paid-up capital for registering a private limited company in Singapore is S$1. This amount can be increased at any time after incorporation.
What are the tax obligations for new companies in Singapore?
Newly incorporated companies may be eligible for tax exemptions and need to file Estimated Chargeable Income (ECI) and annual tax returns with IRAS.
What is the process for appointing or changing company officers (directors, secretary, auditors)?
Appointments or changes must be lodged with ACRA via BizFile+ within 14 days of the change. Accurate records of all company officers must be maintained.
How do I close (strike off) my company in Singapore?
A company may apply to ACRA to be struck off if it has ceased business and has no outstanding liabilities. The process is managed online through the BizFile+ portal.
What are the requirements for keeping company records and accounting books?
Companies in Singapore are required to keep proper accounting records, financial statements, and supporting documents for at least five years. These records must be available for inspection by ACRA and IRAS when requested.
When do I need to register for Goods and Services Tax (GST)?
You must register for GST if your business’s taxable turnover exceeds S$1 million in the past 12 months or is expected to exceed S$1 million in the next 12 months. Voluntary registration is also available under certain conditions.
What is an Annual General Meeting (AGM) and when must it be held?
An AGM is a mandatory yearly meeting of shareholders to approve financial statements and other key matters. Private companies can choose to dispense with AGMs if they meet certain requirements, but written resolutions must still be passed.
Do I need a local registered address for my company?
Yes, all companies must have a local registered office address in Singapore where official communications and notices can be sent. The registered address must be operational and accessible to the public during normal office hours.
What are the penalties for failing to comply with ACRA or IRAS requirements?
Non-compliance with statutory requirements (such as late filing of annual returns or failure to hold AGMs) can result in fines, penalties, and possible prosecution.