All applications to register a new business must be submitted online via BizFile, ACRA's electronic filing and information retrieval system. To register the business, the owner may do any of the following:
(a) Log into www.bizfile.gov.sg to submit an online transaction to
apply for a new business.
(b) Engage the services of a professional firm (lawyers,
accountants or chartered secretaries) or service bureau (DP
Bureau) for assistance in submitting the online application to
register a new business.
(c) Call at ACRA in person to submit the online transaction at the
BizFile Kiosks.
Referral Authorities
A business is usually registered within 15 minutes after the registration fee is paid. However some applications may need to be referred to another authority for approval or comments. For example, if you intend to carry out activities involving the setting up of a private school, your application will be referred to the Ministry of Education. When an application has been referred to another authority, it may take 14 days to 2 months before the outcome is known. Click here for the Referral Authorities Table.
If there is no referral required and the business is a sole-proprietorship, the applicant may proceed to pay the fee of $65 for registering the new business in Singapore (comprising a registration fee of $50 and name approval fee of $15) and the business will then be registered. If the business is a partnership, the business can only be registered after all the partners have endorsed (or consented) to the submission of the online transaction. Once everyone has consented and the registration fee is paid, the business will be successfully registered.
Medisave Contributions
From 1 January 1994, all self-employed persons are required to top up their Medisave account with the CPF Board before they register a new business, become the owner of an existing business or renew the registration of their business. This requirement is only applicable to Singaporean Citizens and Singapore Permanent Residents.