Direct answer
To register a company in Singapore, ACRA's guidance runs from choosing a business structure, to choosing and reserving a name, to registering through Bizfile, followed by post-registration requirements. Foreign founders face additional rules, including local-residency requirements and, in certain cases, the use of a corporate service provider.
What the official guidance says
ACRA places business structure before name selection and registration, and notes that the structure affects liability, cost and potential growth.
Choosing a Business Structure in SingaporeA source-first registration file should align identity, name, structure, activity, address and the applicant’s filing authority before the Bizfile submission.
Registration Readiness Checklist in SingaporeACRA’s current Bizfile guide says a business name must be reserved before registering a local company, and the person who reserved the name can register it subject to the published rules.
Local Company Registration via Bizfile in Singapore
Source: Accounting and Corporate Regulatory Authority (ACRA) guidance, via our in-depth guides:
Company Incorporation Overview checklist for Singapore
- Choose the entity type that matches the intended activity.
- Review the current structure-specific registration route.
- Verify local-residency and officer requirements.
- Keep the structure decision documented.
- Identity and filing authority checked.
- Name reserved and transaction number recorded.
- Business activity and SSIC code confirmed.
- Address information ready.
- Reserve the proposed company name first.
- Prepare the registration information requested by Bizfile.
- Confirm the filer is eligible to complete the registration.
- Save the registration transaction records.
Practical focus
Use this page to establish the official starting point, identify the responsible authority, and map the incorporation route before selecting a service provider.
Frequently asked questions
Which authority controls company incorporation overview in Singapore?
Accounting and Corporate Regulatory Authority (ACRA) is the primary authority for the guidance on this page. Other authorities can be involved depending on your activity; re-check the official source before acting.
How long can a company name be reserved in Singapore?
ACRA states that an approved business name can be reserved for up to 120 days, and the registration must match the reserved entity type.
Can foreigners register a company in Singapore?
ACRA sets out additional rules for foreigners, including local-residency requirements and the use of a corporate service provider in certain cases. Check the current eligibility rules before you apply.
What is an SSIC code?
ACRA requires applicants to select the most relevant Singapore Standard Industrial Classification (SSIC) code for the business activity when applying for a business name.