To set up a company and start doing business in Singapore, a company must first be incorporated. To do so, one must submit an application online via BizFile upon the approval of its name.
The application for all types of business is similar and the *person incorporating the local company may choose one of the following ways:
-
Log into
BizFile using his/her identification number and
SingPass to submit an online transaction (For self-incorporation, the proposed directors, secretary and subscribers must all be Singapore NRIC holders). This can be done from home, office or at one of ACRA’s BizFile Kiosks at our premises. Please refer to the
step-by-step guide.
-
Engage the services of a professional firm (e.g. lawyers, accountants, chartered secretaries) or a service bureau (e.g. DP Bureau) to submit the
online application.
(*Any person above the age of 18 years old with effect from 1 March 2009 can incorporate a local company)
Find out here if a private or public company is better suited for the business you are starting.
Registration fees
| Name Approval Fee |
$15 |
| Registration Fee for Company Limited by Shares |
$300 |
| Registration Fee for Company Limited by Guarantee |
$600 |
Processing Time
A company is usually incorporated within 15 minutes after the registration fee is paid.
However, it may take between 14 days to 2 months if the application needs to be referred to other authorities for approval or review. For example, if the intention of the company is to carry out activities involving the setting up of a private school, the application will be referred to the Ministry of Education.
[Refer to the Referral Authorities Table]
How does the Standard Memorandum and Articles of Association look like?
You may view a sample of the Standard Memorandum and Articles of Association for the incorporation of a company. Companies limited by guarantee may have certain restrictions on their memorandum or articles. Please refer to the Companies Act or consult your professional advisers on the details.
Is there any endorsement required for company incorporation?
A company incorporated by the directors themselves will require the proposed directors/secretary and subscribers to endorse their consent online via BizFile within 3 days of submitting their application for incorporation.
How long will an approved company name be reserved?
An approved company name will be reserved for 60 days from the date of name application. If you need more time, you can extend the reservation of the approved company name via BizFile for another 60 days. The fee payable is $10. Please note that you will have to apply for the extension latest by the 59th day from the date of name application; otherwise you will not be able to apply for the extension.