Curious how a simple name reservation turns into a legally recognised business in Singapore?
The process starts on BizFile+, the official government portal for filings. First you reserve a name, then you lodge the application to register or incorporate. Planning details up front speeds the workflow and cuts back-and-forth.
This short intro explains who this is for: first-time founders, SMEs and foreign entrepreneurs seeking practical steps to set up in Singapore. Expect clear checklists for choosing the right entity, confirming eligibility of position-holders, and preparing documents before you begin.
What you will receive: a Unique Entity Number (UEN) and a BizFile business profile by email; companies also get a Certificate of Incorporation. These deliverables are essential for banking, licences and dealings with government agencies.
Key Takeaways
- Use BizFile+ as the official route for filings and name reservation.
- Start with a name reservation, then proceed to the registration or incorporation step.
- Choose the correct entity and verify position-holder eligibility before you file.
- Prepare documents in advance to avoid delays and extra requests.
- After approval you get a UEN and a business profile for banking and compliance.
Preparing for registration on ACRA BizFile+ in Singapore
Start by deciding who will lodge the online application and which credentials they will use.
Self-filing normally requires Singpass access. That means only Singapore residents or those with Singpass can act as an Individual User.
If founders are overseas or lack Singpass, a registered filing agent or a corporate service provider can submit the forms via the Business User/Corppass route.
Who can file and why it matters
The lodger must be the same person who reserved the name if you self-register. They will usually need to be appointed as a director or company secretary.
Decide: self-register or use services
Using a corporate service provider reduces the risk of errors in entity type, position-holder details and endorsements. Self-registering saves fees but raises the burden of compliance.
Two required transactions
There are two dependent steps: a business name application (reservation) followed by the online registration. Do not skip the name approval — registration cannot proceed without it.
“Confirm who will lodge, confirm they have the correct portal access, and confirm they can take on an official role.”
| Scenario | Login method | Who lodges |
|---|---|---|
| Local founder with Singpass | Singpass (Individual User) | Founder (self) |
| Overseas founder | Corppass / Business User via agent | Registered filing agent or service provider |
| Team filing for multiple entities | Corppass / Business User | Corporate service or authorised lodger |
Choosing the right business structure for your company in Singapore
Pick a legal form that fits your scale, risk tolerance and plans to hire or raise funds.
Sole proprietorship or partnership: when it fits and what is checked
Sole proprietorship or a simple partnership suits single-owner ventures or very small teams. These are quick to set up and often approved within 15 minutes after payment.
ACRA checks owner eligibility: typically Singapore Citizen/PR or eligible pass holders. EP holders need a Letter of Consent (LOC) from MOM, and owners must be up-to-date with MediSave where applicable.
Limited Partnership and LLP: partner counts and local manager rules
Limited Partnership requires at least one General Partner and one Limited Partner. If all General Partners live overseas, a local manager must be appointed to meet filing requirements.
An LLP needs at least two partners and a local manager who resides in Singapore. Partners and the local manager must endorse the filing before payment.
Local private limited incorporation: when it makes sense
Incorporation as a private limited is better when you want to raise capital, limit liability, or contract with larger clients. You must have at least one resident director (Citizen/PR/EntrePass/EP) and at least one shareholder, and adopt a constitution.
“Match the chosen entity type to your name reservation; a mismatch may require a fresh name application.”
Decision prompt: If you are overseas and need a local director or manager, consider professional filing support early to avoid rework and delays.
Information and documents ACRA requires before you submit
Confirm every entry matches your pre-approved name and the supporting records.
Pre-submission checklist:
- Reserved name and reservation reference retrievable in BizFile+.
- Registered office and primary business address, plus postal codes.
- Full particulars for directors and shareholders, including IDs and contact details.
- Constitution choice and share capital figures (currency, class, number, paid‑up amount).
How to keep name details aligned
Match the entity type used when you reserved the name with the type chosen at filing.
Keep the transaction reference handy so BizFile+ pulls the reservation without mismatch errors.
Address requirements explained
Provide a registered office address; a separate business address is optional if different.
An Alternate Address can protect privacy but costs an additional $40 per Alternate Address.
Position‑holder particulars and timing
Enter full details for directors and shareholders. Accuracy matters because these feed into the Business Profile and bank checks.
If you do not appoint a company secretary at filing, you must do so within six months.
Constitution and share capital
You can adopt the Model Constitution or upload a bespoke document for special share rights.
Record capital in SGD (or other currency), state the share class (e.g. Ordinary), number of shares and paid‑up capital.
“Accurate details up front make downstream onboarding with banks and agencies fast and reliable.”
| Item | Required detail | Why it matters |
|---|---|---|
| Reserved name | Name string & reservation reference | Must match registration entry to avoid rejection |
| Addresses | Registered office, business address, optional Alternate Address | Used for service of notices and public listing on Business Profile |
| Position holders | Full particulars for directors and shareholders | Required for statutory records and bank verification |
| Constitution | Model Constitution or customised document | Defines internal rules and share rights |
| Share capital | Currency, class, number of shares, paid‑up capital | Appears on Business Profile and affects capitalisation records |
For terms and procedural details, see the service terms before you file.
acra company registration guide: step-by-step BizFile+ registration process
Begin your filing at www.bizfile.gov.sg and sign in with the same account used to reserve your name.
Why the same login matters: the portal links your name reservation to that exact Singpass or Corppass account. If you use a different login, the transaction cannot be retrieved and the application will be blocked.
Start the correct transaction path
Follow the menu: Register > Register new entity > Register new business entity. Retrieve the business name transaction number shown in your reservation list and click “Start” to load the pre-approved name.
Complete company fields ACRA expects
Certain fields are auto-filled (entity name, entity type and SSIC primary activity). Other fields must be entered carefully.
- FYE and financial period — set the year end and reporting cadence.
- Registered office address, working hours and company email — enter contact details truthfully.
- Ensure working hours meet the minimum practical requirement (for example, three hours per business day).
Add position holders and confirm share allocations
Add directors, shareholders and an optional company secretary. Verify identity particulars and assign roles correctly.
Enter share currency, class, number of shares and paid-up capital. Save each allotment and confirm the shareholder breakdown before proceeding.
Mini quality-control checklist before payment
- Entity type matches the reserved name transaction number.
- Addresses and email are accurate and current.
- At least one locally resident director is recorded where required.
- All share allotments are saved and reviewed.
“Records filed on BizFile+ form the official public baseline; correct these details before you pay to avoid costly amendments.”
Fees and processing times to expect from ACRA
Processing usually moves fast after payment, yet some cases trigger longer reviews.
Typical turnaround: Most simple applications are approved within 15 minutes after the registration fee is paid. This makes it easy to plan next steps for your business.
When timelines stretch: Some filings are routed to a referral or regulatory authority for review. These external checks can extend processing to between 14 and 60 days. Expect this when licences, foreign directors or specialised activities are involved.
Fee overview by entity type
| Entity | Fee |
|---|---|
| Sole proprietorship / Partnership | $100 (1 year) or $160 (3 years) |
| Limited Partnership | $100 (1 year) or $160 (3 years) |
| LLP | $100 one-time |
| Local company | $300 one-time |
Optional add-ons like an Alternate Address cost an extra $40 each. Time-based bundles apply to sole proprietorships and limited partnerships, while LLPs and local entities pay one-time fees.
When to use a corporate service: Engage specialist services if your structure or shareholders are complex, or if you need faster compliance and fewer errors. Build buffer days into plans for banking, licences and hiring so start dates stay on track.
What you receive after successful ACRA registration
Successful approval triggers the release of your entity’s legal identifiers and key proof documents.
Unique Entity Number and its use
The Unique Entity Number is the official identifier for your organisation. This unique entity number appears on all formal records and is required for transactions with government agencies.
Use it for: tax filings, licences, permits and most official correspondences with government bodies.
BizFile Business Profile: what it contains
The BizFile business profile lists core particulars: entity name, registered address, position holders and principal activities.
Banks, vendors and regulators commonly request the business profile to verify identity and operational details. A free copy is emailed to the person who filed the application.
Certificate of Incorporation and next steps
The Certificate of Incorporation evidences that the company is legally formed and is often required for bank account opening, tenders and due diligence.
Immediately verify all details against your originals. If you spot errors, correct them quickly to keep public records accurate and reduce friction with partners, investors and government agencies.
“Store your documents securely and use them promptly for banking, licences and onboarding.”
After incorporation: key setup and compliance steps in Singapore
Once the legal formation is complete, move quickly to the operational tasks that keep your business lawful and ready to trade.
Open a business bank account using your UEN and BizFile Business Profile
Most banks ask for your UEN, the BizFile Business Profile and photo IDs for directors and shareholders. Bring certified copies and minutes for signatory approvals if multiple signatories are required.
Tip: prepare a simple board resolution that names authorised signatories to speed account opening.
Appoint a company secretary within the required timeframe
The law requires a company secretary to be appointed within six months of incorporation. Appointing one early helps keep meeting minutes, statutory registers and filing deadlines on track.
Consider GST registration if turnover may exceed S$1 million per year
If you expect taxable supplies above S$1 million in a 12‑month period, GST registration is mandatory. Voluntary registration can help reclaim input tax but adds reporting obligations.
Stay compliant with filings and keep details updated
Update ACRA promptly for changes to directors, shareholders, or your registered address to avoid penalties. Meet annual filing deadlines and retain accurate records for audits and bank checks.
“Timely updates and proper records reduce friction with banks, regulators and partners.”
When to use a corporate service provider: small or remote teams often outsource ongoing compliance and secretarial services to reduce risk and free founders to focus on growth.
Conclusion
Key takeaway: conclude with a compact checklist to move from name reservation to full operations.
Start by confirming who will lodge and their portal access. Choose the correct legal form, gather accurate particulars for position holders and prepare your registered address and constitution before you file.
Remember the two‑step workflow: name reservation, then the online filing. Missing this link causes needless delays.
Local resident director or manager planning often decides whether approval is smooth. Treat bank account setup, company secretary appointment, GST timing and ongoing filings as part of the same project—not afterthoughts.
Action: use the checklists above as your working document and seek qualified filing support if you are overseas or your structure is complex. For official how‑to details see setting up a local company.
FAQ
Who can file the application on BizFile+ and what access do they need?
Should I self-register or hire a corporate service provider?
What are the two main steps I must follow on BizFile+?
How do I choose the right business structure?
What does ACRA review for sole proprietorships and partnerships?
What are the requirements for Limited Partnerships and LLPs?
When is incorporating a private limited company preferable?
What name details and documents must match during filing?
What registered address information is required?
What position holder details are needed at incorporation?
Do I have to adopt a constitution and what are the options?
How should I declare share capital and shareholding information?
How do I start the registration transaction on BizFile+?
What company details should I complete in the application?
How should I add directors, shareholders and other officers?
When and how should I allocate shares before submission?
What approval times and fees can I expect?
What do I receive after successful incorporation?
How is the UEN used for government transactions?
What are the immediate post‑incorporation compliance steps?
FAQ
Who can file the application on BizFile+ and what access do they need?
Anyone with a Singpass can file for a sole proprietor or partnership if they are a resident. Corporates and authorised representatives use Corppass. Non-resident founders normally appoint a local registered filing agent or a corporate service provider to submit documents on their behalf.
Should I self-register or hire a corporate service provider?
Self-registration suits experienced business owners comfortable with online filing and statutory requirements. Many foreign entrepreneurs and those wanting faster turnaround select a registered filing agent to ensure compliance, prepare documents and liaise with government agencies.
What are the two main steps I must follow on BizFile+?
First apply for and reserve your business name. Once approved, proceed to the registration transaction for the chosen entity. The name on the registration must match the approved reservation exactly.
How do I choose the right business structure?
Consider risk, tax and funding needs. A sole proprietorship or partnership suits small, low-risk operations. Limited partnerships and LLPs offer flexibility for professionals, but require specific partner roles and local managers in some cases. A private limited entity is best for growth, investor interest and limited liability.
What does ACRA review for sole proprietorships and partnerships?
Authorities check identity documents, local residency status, business activities and the proposed name. Certain regulated trades need approvals before registration, and foreign individuals may need a local agent to file.
What are the requirements for Limited Partnerships and LLPs?
These structures require at least one general partner or designated member who satisfies residency rules. Some partners must be locally based or appoint a local authorised representative, and the partnership agreement must meet statutory conditions.
When is incorporating a private limited company preferable?
Incorporation is preferable if you want limited liability, easier capital raising, tax incentives or a clearer ownership structure. It is often chosen by start-ups seeking investment and by foreign entrepreneurs establishing a local presence.
What name details and documents must match during filing?
The business name used for registration must match the approved reservation exactly, including punctuation and capitalisation. You should have the name approval reference, identification documents for directors and shareholders, and any licences needed for regulated activities.
What registered address information is required?
A valid local registered office address is mandatory. You may provide an alternative address for service of documents if needed. PO Boxes are generally not acceptable as the registered office.
What position holder details are needed at incorporation?
Provide full names, identification numbers or passport details, residential addresses, email contacts and consent to act for directors and company secretaries. At least one director must be a resident director for private limited entities.
Do I have to adopt a constitution and what are the options?
You can adopt the regulator’s Model Constitution or submit a bespoke constitution. The chosen document governs internal management, share classes and director powers, so ensure it aligns with your governance needs and shareholders’ agreements.
How should I declare share capital and shareholding information?
State the authorised and issued share capital, currency and share classes. Provide details on allotted shares and paid-up capital at the time of incorporation to reflect ownership accurately for regulatory and bank account purposes.
How do I start the registration transaction on BizFile+?
Log in with the same account used for name reservation. Select the correct transaction path for the chosen entity type, complete the required fields and upload supporting documents. Ensure consistency between the name approval and registration entries.
What company details should I complete in the application?
Include the financial year end, accounting reference date, primary business activity, email address and office hours. These details assist statutory filings and communications with regulatory authorities and banks.
How should I add directors, shareholders and other officers?
Enter accurate personal details and positions for each officer. Confirm consents where required and ensure director residency requirements are met. Any change after incorporation must be filed promptly.
When and how should I allocate shares before submission?
Allocate shares reflecting final ownership before filing. Record share classes, numbers and nominal value. For foreign investors, ensure documentation supports any nominee arrangements and complies with anti‑money laundering checks.
What approval times and fees can I expect?
Standard approvals are often issued within a few working days, but referrals to other government bodies can extend the timeline. Fees vary by entity type and optional add-ons such as an alternate address or expedited services.
What do I receive after successful incorporation?
You will obtain a Unique Entity Number (UEN), a BizFile Business Profile showing key particulars, and a Certificate of Incorporation as proof of legal existence for government transactions and bank account opening.
How is the UEN used for government transactions?
The UEN is the primary identifier for dealings with tax, customs, social insurance and other public agencies. Keep it secure and use it on invoices, permits and official correspondence.
What are the immediate post‑incorporation compliance steps?
Open a business bank account using your UEN and business profile, appoint a company secretary within the statutory timeframe, and consider GST registration if turnover may reach S
FAQ
Who can file the application on BizFile+ and what access do they need?
Anyone with a Singpass can file for a sole proprietor or partnership if they are a resident. Corporates and authorised representatives use Corppass. Non-resident founders normally appoint a local registered filing agent or a corporate service provider to submit documents on their behalf.
Should I self-register or hire a corporate service provider?
Self-registration suits experienced business owners comfortable with online filing and statutory requirements. Many foreign entrepreneurs and those wanting faster turnaround select a registered filing agent to ensure compliance, prepare documents and liaise with government agencies.
What are the two main steps I must follow on BizFile+?
First apply for and reserve your business name. Once approved, proceed to the registration transaction for the chosen entity. The name on the registration must match the approved reservation exactly.
How do I choose the right business structure?
Consider risk, tax and funding needs. A sole proprietorship or partnership suits small, low-risk operations. Limited partnerships and LLPs offer flexibility for professionals, but require specific partner roles and local managers in some cases. A private limited entity is best for growth, investor interest and limited liability.
What does ACRA review for sole proprietorships and partnerships?
Authorities check identity documents, local residency status, business activities and the proposed name. Certain regulated trades need approvals before registration, and foreign individuals may need a local agent to file.
What are the requirements for Limited Partnerships and LLPs?
These structures require at least one general partner or designated member who satisfies residency rules. Some partners must be locally based or appoint a local authorised representative, and the partnership agreement must meet statutory conditions.
When is incorporating a private limited company preferable?
Incorporation is preferable if you want limited liability, easier capital raising, tax incentives or a clearer ownership structure. It is often chosen by start-ups seeking investment and by foreign entrepreneurs establishing a local presence.
What name details and documents must match during filing?
The business name used for registration must match the approved reservation exactly, including punctuation and capitalisation. You should have the name approval reference, identification documents for directors and shareholders, and any licences needed for regulated activities.
What registered address information is required?
A valid local registered office address is mandatory. You may provide an alternative address for service of documents if needed. PO Boxes are generally not acceptable as the registered office.
What position holder details are needed at incorporation?
Provide full names, identification numbers or passport details, residential addresses, email contacts and consent to act for directors and company secretaries. At least one director must be a resident director for private limited entities.
Do I have to adopt a constitution and what are the options?
You can adopt the regulator’s Model Constitution or submit a bespoke constitution. The chosen document governs internal management, share classes and director powers, so ensure it aligns with your governance needs and shareholders’ agreements.
How should I declare share capital and shareholding information?
State the authorised and issued share capital, currency and share classes. Provide details on allotted shares and paid-up capital at the time of incorporation to reflect ownership accurately for regulatory and bank account purposes.
How do I start the registration transaction on BizFile+?
Log in with the same account used for name reservation. Select the correct transaction path for the chosen entity type, complete the required fields and upload supporting documents. Ensure consistency between the name approval and registration entries.
What company details should I complete in the application?
Include the financial year end, accounting reference date, primary business activity, email address and office hours. These details assist statutory filings and communications with regulatory authorities and banks.
How should I add directors, shareholders and other officers?
Enter accurate personal details and positions for each officer. Confirm consents where required and ensure director residency requirements are met. Any change after incorporation must be filed promptly.
When and how should I allocate shares before submission?
Allocate shares reflecting final ownership before filing. Record share classes, numbers and nominal value. For foreign investors, ensure documentation supports any nominee arrangements and complies with anti‑money laundering checks.
What approval times and fees can I expect?
Standard approvals are often issued within a few working days, but referrals to other government bodies can extend the timeline. Fees vary by entity type and optional add-ons such as an alternate address or expedited services.
What do I receive after successful incorporation?
You will obtain a Unique Entity Number (UEN), a BizFile Business Profile showing key particulars, and a Certificate of Incorporation as proof of legal existence for government transactions and bank account opening.
How is the UEN used for government transactions?
The UEN is the primary identifier for dealings with tax, customs, social insurance and other public agencies. Keep it secure and use it on invoices, permits and official correspondence.
What are the immediate post‑incorporation compliance steps?
Open a business bank account using your UEN and business profile, appoint a company secretary within the statutory timeframe, and consider GST registration if turnover may reach S$1 million. Implement accounting systems and prepare for annual filings to remain compliant.
How do I keep statutory records and filings up to date?
Update officer, shareholder and address changes promptly via the online filing system. Maintain minutes, share registers and accounting records. Regular compliance prevents fines and supports smooth interactions with financial institutions and regulators.
million. Implement accounting systems and prepare for annual filings to remain compliant.
How do I keep statutory records and filings up to date?
Update officer, shareholder and address changes promptly via the online filing system. Maintain minutes, share registers and accounting records. Regular compliance prevents fines and supports smooth interactions with financial institutions and regulators.
How do I keep statutory records and filings up to date?
Dean Cheong is a Singapore-based B2B growth strategist and the CEO of VOffice. He helps companies scale revenue through sharper sales execution, CRM implementation, and go-to-market strategy, backed by a strong foundation in business banking and finance from Nanyang Technological University and a track record of driving sustainable, performance-led growth.