Company Incorporation in Singapore and Malaysia
Our Singapore company incorporation services support entrepreneurs, startups, and international businesses in establishing compliant corporate structures. From entity selection and registration to post-incorporation obligations, we provide end-to-end advisory support for long-term operational readiness.
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 this guide useful: Singapore Company Incorporation Guide 2026 : Costs, Requirements and Common Mistakes
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 must meet ongoing statutory obligations such as annual filings, record-keeping, and governance requirements. These obligations form part of Singapore corporate compliance requirements that companies must follow to remain compliant after incorporation.
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.
Essential Guides for Singapore Businesses
Explore these comprehensive resources to strengthen your compliance foundation and business operations.
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. 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.
- Documentation and compliance checks.
- Cross-border regulatory guidance.
Company Registration
We handle the process for you.
- End-to-end incorporation with SSM.
- All statutory filings handled.
- Legal compliance from day one.
Post-Incorporation Support
Stay compliant and scale.
- Annual returns & corporate secretarial.
- Ongoing advisory support.
- Banking, tax, payroll coordination.
Ready to establish your presence in Malaysia?
Speak with JT & CY Advisory for timelines, fees, and a step-by-step plan.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to incorporate a company in Singapore?
In most cases, company incorporation in Singapore can be completed within one business day once all required documents are submitted and approved by ACRA.
Can foreigners incorporate a company in Singapore?
Yes, foreigners can incorporate a company in Singapore. However, at least one locally resident director is required, and professional assistance is commonly used to ensure regulatory compliance.
What is a Private Limited Company in Singapore?
A Private Limited Company is the most common business structure in Singapore. It limits shareholder liability to the amount invested and allows the company to operate as a separate legal entity.
Is a Unique Entity Number (UEN) issued after incorporation?
Yes, once a company is successfully incorporated in Singapore, ACRA automatically issues a Unique Entity Number (UEN) for identification and compliance purposes.