Many business owners consider restructuring their companies to reduce their tax bill. Singapore’s tax system permits tax planning to minimise tax liability. However, there is a difference between legitimate tax reduction and tax avoidance. The Law Section 33 of the Income Tax Act 1947 gives the Comptroller of Income Tax the power to disregard arrangements […]
Singapore is one of the most tax-friendly places for expats: no capital gains, no inheritance tax, and foreign income kept offshore is generally tax-free. But how much you pay is not fixed. Your residency, pay structure, and exit timing all factor into how much you pay. Tax Residency Status Firstly, you must determine whether you […]
If you are an expat running a business through a company or partnership registered in another country, Singapore may classify your entity differently from how it is classified at home. This can change how you are taxed. The Inland Revenue Authority of Singapore (IRAS) applies the “Resemblance Approach” to determine the tax treatment of your foreign entity. […]
As an Expat running a business in Singapore, you may be considering the idea of setting up an offshore parent company in an offshore jurisdiction to hold your Singapore entity. The Structure This structure has certain advantages, as Singapore has Double-Taxation Agreements (“DTA”) with over 100 countries which provide benefits such as reduced withholding tax […]
Expatriates in Singapore may receive overseas income that has already been taxed in another country. Without relief, this same income could be taxed again in Singapore, resulting in double taxation. To prevent this, Singapore provides a Foreign Tax Credit (FTC). What is FTC? The Foreign Tax Credit (FTC) is a system which allows Singapore tax […]
Singapore is widely recognised as a global financial hub with a strong banking system, making it an attractive destination for foreigners seeking personal banking services. Many individuals relocating to Singapore, investing in the country, or managing regional financial affairs may wonder whether it is possible to open a personal bank account without holding a Singapore […]
Expat remote working: things to note
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Remote working has transformed the modern workplace, allowing businesses and employees greater flexibility than ever before. For expats, remote work arrangements can be especially attractive, enabling them to live in one country while working for an employer or clients based elsewhere. However, cross border remote working is not without legal, tax, immigration, and employment complications. […]
Employee stock options and share awards are commonly used by companies to reward and retain employees. These schemes can offer significant financial benefits, particularly in startups and multinational corporations where equity compensation forms part of an employee’s remuneration package. However, employees leaving Singapore often face uncertainty regarding the tax treatment of their unexercised or unvested […]
As businesses continue expanding across borders, international assignments have become increasingly common for companies seeking to deploy talent globally. Whether sending employees overseas for short-term projects, regional leadership roles, or long-term expatriate assignments, employers must ensure that proper contractual protections are in place. An International Assignment Agreement is an important document that outlines the rights, […]
Many expats worry that applying for a Permanent Residence (PR) at the wrong time may reduce their chances. However, ICA does not have any data regarding whether a certain month or window has the highest success rate at achieving PR status. Instead, what is most important is how polished and ready your profile is when […]
Being accused of a crime in a foreign country is a terrifying experience. In Singapore, where the legal system is known for its efficiency and strictness, the stakes are incredibly high for expatriates. Your freedom, your job, and your right to remain in the country are all on the line. This article outlines the immediate […]
Every expat faces the same lingering question: What happens to my assets if I were to pass away while working overseas? This is not just a morbid thought—it is a practical legal puzzle involving “Conflict of Laws.” If you hold assets in Singapore (like a bank account or condo) and assets back home, your estate […]