Business
Starting your business in Singapore
Foreigners are permitted to start a business in Singapore, provided they meet specific requirements related to work permits and business registration.
Incorporating Your Business
Choose Your Business Structure
In Singapore, business entities are regulated by the Accounting and Corporate Regulatory Authority (ACRA). The choice of business structure will affect your company’s legal obligations, taxation, and liability. Key business structures include:
Business Registration
Register your business online through ACRA’s Bizfile portal. This is a straightforward process where you will receive an Incorporation Email upon successful registration, which serves as your official certificate.
Alternatively, foreign companies may consider setting up a representative office for market research or feasibility studies. For this, you need to approach:
Banking, Finance, Insurance: Monetary Authority of Singapore
Legal: Legal Services Regulatory Authority
Other Industries: Enterprise Singapore
Key Considerations for Foreigners
Special Options For Foreign Companies
Visas & Immigration
EntrePass
The EntrePass facilitates the entry and stay of entrepreneurs looking to start and operate a business in Singapore. Successful applicants receive a one-year pass.Global Investor Programme (GIP)
The GIP provides Permanent Residence (PR) to investors with a substantial business track record. Applicants must meet one of the following criteria:- Invest at least S$10 million in a new or existing business.
- Invest S$25 million in a GIP-select fund investing in Singapore-based companies.
- Establish a Singapore-based Single-Family Office with assets under management (AUM) of at least S$200 million, with at least S$50 million in specified investment categories.
Singapore Lawyers
immigration specialists
We can assist you with establishing your company in Singapore
Start Sole Proprietorship
A simple structure where the individual owns and manages the business
Partnership
Involving two or more individuals or entities working together
Private Limited Company
The most common and preferred structure due to its separate legal identity, limited liability, and ability to raise capital
Work Permits and Employment Passes
Foreign entrepreneurs who wish to work in their own business must apply for an Employment Pass (EP) or a EntrePass, depending on the nature and scale of the business. The EntrePass is specifically designed for foreign entrepreneurs setting up a new or existing business in Singapore. It allows the holder to stay and work in Singapore and is subject to specific eligibility criteria related to the business’s innovative potential and investment amount.
Licensing Requirements
Some businesses require industry-specific licenses or permits. For instance, businesses in the food and beverage sector, financial services, or healthcare must obtain relevant regulatory approvals before commencing operations.
Legal Expat Consultation Desk
We provide tailored advice on business registration, permit applications, and compliance with Singapore’s regulatory framework. We offer consultations at a competitive fee of SGD 500 excl GST. This fee includes a comprehensive review of your situation and a meeting either in person or via Zoom.
Starting a business in Singapore is relatively straightforward, supported by a robust regulatory environment and efficient processing times.
Foreigners can take advantage of Singapore’s strategic location and favourable business climate to establish and grow their enterprises effectively.
For any additional assistance beyond the initial consultation, services are billed at an hourly rate.
Send us an email to arrange a meeting at the law firm.Â
Corporate, commercial law, data protection regulations and start a business
Book your consultation
Book your legal consultation online with English-speaking lawyers and immigration specialists! We are located within the law firm KGP Legal on the 10 Anson Road #03-27 International Plaza Singapore 079903. Our consultation can be made on Zoom or in our Office for a competitive fee of SGD 500 excl GST.
