How to Open a Company in Singapore
The City-state of Singapore is a business hub that offers many tax benefits for foreign entrepreneurs. The registration process is easy and hassle-free. However, it is important to know the requirements for opening a company in Singapore before you start.
If your company’s projected revenue is above S$1 million, it must register for GST. This is an indirect tax similar to VAT in Europe.
Requirements for an open company
Singapore is one of the world’s easiest places to open a business, but it’s important to understand its strict process and specific requirements. It is also critical to choose the right company structure. A private limited company is the most common structure, but there are other options as well, including an LLP. An LLP is similar to a partnership, but it offers legal protection against liability and can be taxed at personal income tax rates for individual partners and at corporate tax rates for joint ventures.
A foreigner who wants to set up an open company in Singapore must hire a professional service provider to file the necessary documents with the local authorities. This is a fully automated process, so it can be completed in less than three days. The service provider will also help you obtain a company secretary and a local address. In addition, the service provider will register your company with ACRA.
Shareholders
In Singapore, you can form a company that is a legal entity that provides limited liability protection to its shareholders. Its directors are also protected from debts beyond the amount of their own capital contributions. If you plan to open a business in Singapore, it is best to register as a private limited company. This type of company is more tax efficient than other forms.
Besides the shareholders, you must also appoint a director who can be an individual or a corporate body. This person must be a citizen, Permanent Resident or EntrePass holder with a local address. If you do not have a resident director, you can appoint a nominee director to fulfil this requirement.
You must also acquire a permit or licence to operate your company. The relevant authorities will provide the necessary information on the required permits and licenses when you apply for company incorporation Singapore. Some businesses, including private schools, video companies, travel agencies and liquor distributors, require special permits before they can start operations.
Company structure
Choosing a company structure is an important step in registering your business. The type of structure you choose determines how your business is governed and the amount of liability your shareholders have. It also reflects your intention for the future of your business. Most new businesses register as a private limited company (Pte Ltd) because it’s flexible and scalable. It can have unlimited shareholders, and foreign directors are allowed.
Once your company is registered, it’s time to open a corporate bank account and get business licenses. Depending on your business activities, you may need to register for GST, which is similar to VAT in other countries.
Singapore is a global hub with a highly skilled workforce and competitive business environment. Its low tax rate and convenient location make it an ideal place to conduct international business. It is also a popular choice for regional headquarters due to its excellent connectivity. Its efficient Changi Airport has more than 400 direct flights, making it a gateway to key markets in the region.
Registered address
A company’s registered address is the official mailing address used for correspondence with regulating bodies and government agencies. It also appears in official documents and on the company’s website. The registered address is not necessarily the same as where the business operates.
Singapore is a global hub for technological innovation and financial services, and it attracts entrepreneurs and investors from around the world. Its low tax rate and extensive support for startups make it an ideal launchpad for new companies. Incorporating a company in Singapore is easy and straightforward. It’s a good idea to hire a corporate services firm like ContactOne to assist with the process. They can help with the entire registration process and provide services such as nominee director and a reputable registered business address.
It is a legal requirement that a Singapore-registered company have at least one resident director. This can be a Singapore-resident individual or a foreign person with an EntrePass. In addition, the company must have at least 1 Singapore dollar in paid-up capital.