Singapore is one of the world’s most attractive business destinations. With a pro-business environment, low corporate tax rates, political stability, and robust legal infrastructure, it’s no wonder entrepreneurs from all over the world are eager to Setup Company Singapore.

Whether you’re a local entrepreneur or a foreign investor, understanding the legal, administrative, and regulatory requirements is key to a smooth setup process. In this guide, we’ll explain everything you need to know about how to set up a company in Singapore—from choosing a structure to incorporation and compliance—with expert assistance from JSE Offices.

Why Setup a Company in Singapore?

1. Business-Friendly Tax System

Singapore’s corporate tax rate is capped at 17%, with attractive exemptions for startups. There is no capital gains tax, and dividends are tax-free.

2. Strategic Location

Located at the heart of Southeast Asia, Singapore offers excellent connectivity and is a gateway to regional markets.

3. World-Class Infrastructure

From advanced IT infrastructure to reliable public services, Singapore supports efficient business operations.

4. Robust Legal Framework

Singapore’s transparent and efficient legal system protects intellectual property and enforces contracts fairly.

5. Support for Startups

Government grants, accelerator programs, and access to venture capital make Singapore ideal for startups and SMEs.

Key Requirements to Setup Company in Singapore

Before you begin the incorporation process, you must meet a few key requirements:

At least one shareholder (individual or corporate entity)
At least one local director (Singapore Citizen, Permanent Resident, or Employment Pass holder)
A qualified company secretary (to be appointed within 6 months of incorporation)
Registered office address in Singapore
Minimum paid-up capital of S$1

Types of Business Entities in Singapore

Choosing the right business structure is crucial when setting up your company. Here are the most common options:

1. Private Limited Company (Pte Ltd)

The most popular structure due to its flexibility and scalability.

Limited liability
Separate legal entity
Eligible for tax benefits and government grants

2. Sole Proprietorship

Simplest structure but does not offer limited liability.

Owned by one person
No distinction between personal and business assets

3. Partnership

Formed by two or more individuals or entities.

Can be a general partnership or a limited liability partnership (LLP)

4. Subsidiary Company

A local company owned by a foreign parent company.

Treated as a separate legal entity in Singapore
Enjoys the same benefits as a local Pte Ltd

At JSE Offices, we assess your needs and recommend the best structure to match your objectives.

Step-by-Step Guide to Setup a Company in Singapore

Step 1: Reserve Your Company Name

Choose a unique name that is not already registered or similar to existing trademarks. We assist with checking and reserving the name through ACRA (Accounting and Corporate Regulatory Authority).

Step 2: Decide on Shareholding Structure

Determine the ownership breakdown and prepare the following:

Identity documents of shareholders and directors
Share allocation plan
Company Constitution

Step 3: Appoint Key Officers

At least one resident director
A company secretary (must be appointed within six months)
Optionally, an auditor, unless exempted

Step 4: Register the Company with ACRA

File the incorporation application with the necessary documents:

Company name
Registered address
Details of shareholders, directors, and secretary
Business activity description (based on SSIC codes)

Upon successful submission, ACRA typically approves the registration within 1–3 working days.

Step 5: Receive Certificate of Incorporation

Once approved, ACRA issues a Certificate of Incorporation and Company Business Profile—official documents recognizing your company.

Step 6: Open a Corporate Bank Account

With your incorporation documents, you can now open a business bank account. We assist in arranging meetings with major banks.

Step 7: Register for GST (if applicable)

If your projected annual revenue exceeds S$1 million, you must register for Goods and Services Tax (GST). We help with this process and advise on compliance.

Additional Services You May Need

At JSE Offices, we provide comprehensive support beyond company setup:

✅ Virtual Office Address

Fulfill the registered address requirement and establish a professional business presence in Singapore.

✅ Nominee Director Service

If you’re a foreign entrepreneur, we provide a qualified local director to meet legal requirements while maintaining your control.

✅ Company Secretary Service

Stay compliant with annual filings, meeting minutes, and regulatory submissions through our certified secretaries.

✅ Accounting and Tax Filing

We help you maintain financial records and submit timely reports to IRAS and ACRA.

How Foreigners Can Setup Company in Singapore

Foreign individuals and companies can fully own a Singapore business. However, they must:

Appoint a local director
Use a registered filing agent
Engage a local address provider

You do not need to relocate to Singapore. JSE Offices can handle the entire process remotely, from incorporation to post-setup support.

For those who wish to relocate and manage the business from Singapore, we assist with applying for an Entre Pass or Employment Pass.

Post-Incorporation Compliance Checklist

After your company is set up, you must adhere to certain compliance requirements:

Annual return filing with ACRA
Corporate tax filing with IRAS
Maintenance of accounting records
AGMs and board meetings
Business license applications (if applicable)

Our team ensures you stay fully compliant and avoid unnecessary penalties.

Why Choose JSE Offices to Setup Your Company in Singapore?

✔ End-to-End Services

We manage the entire setup process—from name reservation and document preparation to post-incorporation compliance.

✔ Fast and Efficient

Most companies are incorporated within 1–3 working days.

✔ Local Expertise

Our consultants are familiar with Singapore’s legal and tax frameworks and provide personalized guidance.

✔ Transparent Pricing

No hidden fees. Clear service packages tailored to your business needs.

✔ Ongoing Support

We go beyond incorporation—offering accounting, tax, secretarial, and business advisory services to support long-term growth.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. How long does it take to setup a company in Singapore?

If all documents are ready, the process typically takes 1–3 working days.

2. Do I need to be in Singapore to incorporate a company?

No. You can incorporate remotely through a registered filing agent like JSE Offices.

3. What is the minimum capital required?

Only S$1 is required as minimum paid-up capital. You can increase this later based on business needs.

4. Can foreigners own 100% of a Singapore company?

Yes. Foreigners can own 100% of the shares in a Singapore Private Limited Company.

5. Do I need a local director?

Yes. At least one director must be a Singapore Citizen, PR, or EP holder. JSE Offices offers nominee director services to fulfill this requirement.

6. What are the ongoing compliance requirements?

You must:

Appoint a company secretary
File annual returns
Maintain financial records
Submit corporate tax filings
Hold AGMs (if required)

7. Do I need a license for my business?

Some business types (e.g., food & beverage, finance, education) require additional licenses. We help identify and apply for necessary permits.

Final Thoughts

To setup a company in Singapore is to tap into one of the most dynamic and entrepreneur-friendly markets in the world. With a streamlined process, supportive infrastructure, and tax advantages, it’s an ideal location for startups, SMEs, and foreign investors alike.

At JSE Offices, we provide everything you need to launch your company with confidence. From incorporation to compliance, we’re your trusted partner at every stage of business development.

Ready to setup your company in Singapore? Let our experts handle the process so you can focus on building your business.