Establishing Your Business in Singapore, Done Properly

From initial consultation to ACRA registration confirmation, the process typically spans ten to fourteen business days. This accounts for document preparation, name reservation, and the statutory filing period with the Accounting and Corporate Regulatory Authority. Where all required information and documents are provided promptly, the timeline may be shorter.

Physical presence in Singapore is not a requirement for company registration. However, foreign founders who do not hold Singapore residency must appoint a locally resident director. Our team advises on nominee director arrangements and the corresponding responsibilities, ensuring the structure meets both legal requirements and the founders' operational preferences.

A private limited company in Singapore requires at least one shareholder (which may be an individual or corporate entity), at least one locally resident director, a registered Singapore office address, a qualified company secretary appointed within six months of incorporation, and a minimum paid-up capital of SGD 1. Meranti Legal assists with each of these requirements as part of the incorporation engagement.

Yes, appointing a company secretary is a statutory requirement under the Singapore Companies Act. The company secretary is responsible for ensuring the company meets its ongoing regulatory obligations — including annual return filings, maintaining statutory registers, and organising board and shareholder meetings. The appointment must be made within six months of incorporation. We can advise on suitable arrangements based on your company's size and needs.

After registration, companies must file annual returns with ACRA, hold an Annual General Meeting (with certain exemptions for small companies), maintain proper accounting records, and ensure directors and officers meet their ongoing disclosure obligations. Companies with revenue above the applicable threshold must also engage an auditor. Our Governance & Compliance Review service can help you map these requirements against your current practices.

Our fees are fixed and disclosed at the outset of each engagement. Company Incorporation Assistance is priced at SGD 480, Business Structure Advisory at SGD 350, and Corporate Governance & Compliance Review at SGD 1,380. Government filing fees charged by ACRA are separate and quoted transparently before work begins. There are no undisclosed charges or additions during the engagement.