Company Incorporation in singapore and malaysia
Singapore Company Incorporation For Foreigners
Company incorporation in Singapore is a practical gateway into Asia’s business ecosystem. Because Singapore offers strong intellectual property protection, a pro-business tax environment, and excellent global connectivity, many founders choose it as their regional base.
Moreover, Singapore’s trade links and international positioning make it attractive for entrepreneurs who want to launch new ventures, open subsidiaries, or set up branch operations in Asia. Therefore, choosing the right setup from the beginning can save time and reduce compliance risk later.
However, foreign entrepreneurs typically cannot register a company on their own. Instead, they usually work with a professional service provider to complete the registration and meet regulatory requirements. As a result, the process becomes smoother and less error-prone.
If you’re planning to incorporate, you may also find these guides useful:
Understanding the Singapore Company Registration Process
To operate legally, both local and foreign entrepreneurs must register their business in Singapore. In addition, the registration process requires accurate documents, proper declarations, and a clear description of business activities. Therefore, preparing these details early helps prevent unnecessary delays.
Foreign business owners generally choose one of the following business structures:
- Private Limited Company
- Branch Office
- Representative Office
- Subsidiary Company
In most cases, a Private Limited Company is preferred because liability is limited to the amount invested. However, the right structure still depends on your goals, risk profile, and future hiring plans.
If you want to compare your options first, see Singapore company types and structures .
Two key stages of incorporation
Company incorporation in Singapore typically follows two clear stages. First, you prepare and submit the required information. Then, after approval, you complete ongoing compliance requirements.
Pre-registration: prepare documents, choose the business structure, appoint directors, and reserve a company name.
Because each stage has specific legal requirements, poor preparation can slow the process. Consequently, professional guidance helps you stay compliant while keeping timelines predictable.
If you plan to hire after incorporating, you may also want to review Employment Pass and S Pass.
Starting A Company In Malaysia
Similar to company incorporation in Singapore, businesses in Malaysia must also register officially under the Registration of Company Act 2016. Therefore, once you have a clear business plan and are ready to move forward, registering your company is typically the first essential step.
At JT & CY Advisory, a partner of Terra Advisory Services, we support the setup of Sendirian Berhad (Sdn. Bhd.) companies. In addition, we provide end-to-end guidance so the process remains structured, compliant, and efficient.
How We Can Help Across Singapore and Malaysia
Whether you’re pursuing company incorporation in Malaysia or exploring company incorporation in Singapore, meeting regulatory requirements before and after registration is crucial—especially for international businesses. As Terra Advisory’s affiliate, JT & CY Advisory provides end-to-end support so you can focus on growth.
Pre-Incorporation Guidance
Get clarity and confidence before you file.
- Advice on the most suitable business structure for your goals.
- Assistance with documentation, compliance checks, and timelines.
- Answers to cross-border questions & regulatory expectations.
Company Registration
We run the process so you don’t have to.
- End-to-end incorporation with the Companies Commission of Malaysia (SSM).
- Preparation and submission of all statutory forms and filings.
- Compliance with all legal and regulatory frameworks from day one.
Post-Incorporation Support
Stay compliant and scale with confidence.
- Annual returns, statutory registers, and corporate secretarial duties.
- Ongoing advisory to support operations and expansion in Malaysia.
- Coordination with banking, tax, and payroll partners where needed.
Ready to establish your presence in Malaysia?
Speak with JT & CY Advisory for timelines, fees, and a step-by-step plan tailored to your business.
Essential Guides for Singapore Businesses
Explore these comprehensive resources to strengthen your compliance foundation and business operations.
Singapore Tax Benefits & Incentives for New Companies
SUTE, PTE schemes, and maximizing tax savings with Singapore's 17% corporate rate
Ultimate GST Compliance Guide for Singapore Businesses (2025)
IRAS requirements, filing deadlines, penalty avoidance, and audit protection strategies
Corporate Secretarial Compliance Checklist (2026)
Prepare for April 2026 regulatory changes with our complete compliance action plan
The Ultimate Guide to Company Incorporation in Singapore
Step-by-step process covering entity selection, ACRA filing, and post-incorporation
