Paul Hype Page (Singapore) - Company Registration Logo

Singapore Company Formation & Employment Pass

Looking to register a company in Singapore or get an an Employment Pass? We’ve got you covered.

Singapore Company Formation & Employment Pass2022-12-28T15:42:10+08:00

KICKSTART YOUR SINGAPORE COMPANY REGISTRATION AS A FOREIGNER

As a foreigner registering a business in Singapore, here are the basic requirements to set up a company:

Singapore Employment Pass Services

Company name & business activity

At least 1 local resident

At least 1 shareholder

Minimum S$1 capital

Company secretary

Physical Singapore office address

Singapore employment pass

Download the full Singapore company incorporation checklist now.

OPENING THE DOORS TO SINGAPORE’S EMPLOYMENT PASS SPECIALIST

Trusted by many of our clients globally, we specialise in securing your move to Singapore with seamless transition to living in Singapore as an expat. The Singapore work visa that we recommend is the employment pass for multiple reasons.

The basic requirements for Singapore employment pass are:

  1. Minimum salary of S$4,500 – will be raised to S$5,000 in September 2022
  2. Education qualifications from recognized institutions
  3. Strong & relevant employment background
20 years of cumulative experience across Singapore, Malaysia, Indonesia, and Hong Kong.
93% success rate for Singapore Employment Pass application for foreigners setting up a company in Singapore
Over 1,000 companies incorporated

We’re MOM-licensed employment agency with an in-house employment agent, focusing on Singapore employment pass applications.

PROCEDURE FOR SINGAPORE COMPANY REGISTRATION WITH EMPLOYMENT PASS

Now that you know the requirements to register a business in Singapore as a foreigner and for the Singapore employment pass, get the step-by-step guide on the procedure for pre-incorporation to post-incorporation as a foreigner.

Step 1) Reserve your company name

Finding a suitable and memorable company is crucial foundation for business success. Check and register your company name in Singapore through ACRA using our free tool!

Step 2) Check your Singapore business activity code

Search your primary business activity to find your SSIC Code that is required by ACRA to complete your company registration.

Step 3) Submit & sign all incorporation documents online via our digital corporate services platform

Tap on our patented digital platform to fill up the information to generate filled-up company incorporation documents. All processes are done online – from form submission to signing of all documents. We will proceed with your company registration with ACRA once we have the finalised documents. Once registered, all your company detail and documents will be uploaded into the digital platform.

Singapore offshore company incorporation is a viable option – means no need for you to travel down to Singapore if you are based overseas.

Step 4) Open a corporate bank account

A corporate bank account, while not mandatory, is important to ensure proper keepsake of all the company’s finances. Through the years, we’ve built strong relationships with local banks to help our clients to secure their bank accounts. For foreigners setting up a company in Singapore, there is an option for offshore bank account opening so you will not have to travel into the country.

In any case where traditional banks are not willing to open a corporate bank account, we also have alternative solutions with online bank partners.

Step 5) Apply for Singapore employment pass

If you are a foreigner setting up a company in Singapore, you will need to apply for a work visa to run your business operations. We typically recommend our clients to opt for the Singapore Employment Pass (EP) for various reasons – reach out to us to discuss your options! Our Singapore EP success rate for approvals is 85%.

Step 6) Adhering to annual filing, returns & corporate tax regulations

After you’ve successfully incorporated your company, you are bounded by the governmental regulations. These include corporate secretarial activities, accounting, corporate tax filing, and compiling of financial statements. Leave all compliance work to our Chartered Accounts to never miss a deadline – penalties are involved if you miss!

WHO IS ACRA? WHO IS MOM?

WHO IS ACRA? WHO IS MOM?

Accounting & Corporate Regulatory Authority (ACRA)

ACRA is the statutory board that governs the registration of companies in Singapore.

ACRA is the equivalent to:

  • Companies House in the United Kingdom
  • Australian Securities & Investment Commission (ASIC) in Australia
  • Companies Registry (CR) in Hong Kong

Singapore Ministry of Manpower (MOM)

MOM is the government body responsible for the workforce in Singapore.

MOM is the equivalent to:

  • The Office of Manpower Economics in the United Kingdom
  • The Manpower Directorate in Australia
  • The Labour Department in Hong Kong

EXPAT LIFE IN SINGAPORE

Living in Singapore is easy for foreign expats – here are the reasons why the expat life in Singapore is highly favoured.

Here are some reasons why the expat life in Singapore is bustling:

Tight-knit global expat community

Safe & conducive living environment

Cultural diversity with good food

Thriving, established economy with work opportunities

Exceptional quality of life

Strong education system for expats with children

Paul Hype Page & Co. corporate service professionals

SINGAPORE COMPANY REGISTRATION & EMPLOYMENT PASS FAQS

Starting a new company and moving into a new country can be daunting – here are the top 8 questions to clear your doubts.

How can I open a corporate bank account in Singapore as a foreigner?2022-06-30T13:38:41+08:00

All our company registration packages for foreigners include opening a corporate bank account. We will advise and prepare the necessary documents required by the bank. For more information, you can read more on this topic’s guide here.

Can I convert my existing DP to a Singapore employment pass (EP)?2022-06-30T13:38:05+08:00

Converting an existing DP to a Singapore EP is impossible. Speak to our in-house employment visa experts for in-depth advice for conversion – book an appointment here.

Can a Singapore employment pass (EP) or a dependent pass (DP) holder start a business in Singapore?2024-01-24T11:16:02+08:00

Singapore EP and DP holders can start a business in Singapore. Speak to our incorporation experts for the company registration process – book an appointment here.

Do I need a job in Singapore to apply for the Singapore employment pass?2022-06-30T13:36:46+08:00

Yes, you will need to have an existing job offer to apply for the Singapore employment pass. Alternatively, the best route to move to Singapore is to register a new company and apply the employment pass under the new company for yourself.

What is the difference between Singapore employment pass and other work visas?2022-06-30T13:36:19+08:00

There are many work visas in Singapore – each tailored to a unique group of foreign professionals. You can read more in-depth about them in our comparative article here.

How long does it take to apply for the Singapore employment pass?2022-06-30T13:35:38+08:00

The timeline for Singapore employment pass varies on a case-by-case basis from 2-4 weeks to up to 3 months. We’ve detailed out the timeline and steps here.

Can I incorporate a company in Singapore while being overseas?2022-06-30T13:34:41+08:00

There is no need to be physically in Singapore to register your company if you have engaged a registered filing agent.

How long does it take to register a business in Singapore?2024-01-24T11:14:56+08:00

Registering a company in Singapore takes 5 – 7 days upon submission of the documents.

Undecided or got questions

Got other questions?

Reach out to our experts to get your answers directly.

CONTACT US >

BUSINESS & LIFESTYLE GUIDES

Get in-depth knowledge for company registration for foreigners, Singapore employment pass, and expatlife in Singapore in our articles below.

How Can Foreigners Set Up A Company In Singapore

How Can Foreigners Set Up A Company In Singapore?

Singapore Working Visa Guide

Singapore Work Visas Guide 2022

How-Long-Does-it-take-to-get-Employment-Pass-in-Singapore

Singapore Employment Pass Timeline 2022

Foreign-Driving-License-Conversion-in-Singapore

Foreign Driving License Conversion in Singapore

OUR UNIQUE PERANAKAN OFFICE

Step foot into our new Peranakan shophouse when in Singapore. As we have a global clientele, we look to ingrain an experience that’s memorable and edu-cultural with our office space and location.

Paul Hype Page & Co. Singapore Office

THE GOOD WORDS

Hear directly from our clients to learn more about the good work done.

REGIONAL PRESENCE, GLOBAL REACH

Let us bring your business into emerging and key marketing around Asia.

Reach out to Singapore company incorporation experts

CONNECT WITH US TODAY

Get in touch for a consultation on your foreign company registration in Singapore along with employment pass assessment now.

Start your Incorporation

Search your company

Business Compliance

Event

Resources

Company

Copyright © 2024 Business registration in Singapore | PaulHypePage.Com

Press “ESC” key to close

Contact Info

30 Petain Road Singapore 208099

PHP Network Partner

Paul Hype Page is a certified accounting firm (CPA) in Singapore and a full-practicing member of the Institute of Singapore Chartered Accountants (ISCA). We have provided auditing services for businesses from various industries across Singapore, Malaysia, Indonesia and Hong Kong.

We can issue an IRAS-approved audit report that meets both the Singapore government’s requirements and your company’s needs. The audit function of your company is in good hands with our professional Singapore-certified auditors.

Our audit services in Singapore consist of a vast variety to cater to the specific needs of your organization.

  1. Annual Financial Audit
  2. Special Purpose Audit
  3. Certification for Subsidy Claim
  4. Audit
  5. Fixed Assets Certification
  6. Claim Certification
  7. Shares Certification
  8. Personal Income Certification

Why Is Auditing Essential for Companies in Singapore?

Under the Singapore Companies Act, private limited companies must undergo an annual Statutory Audit, necessitating the appointment of at least one auditor within three months of formation.

If you are a foreigner, you will need a nominee director (local director) to incorporate your company in Singapore.

What is a Nominee Director?
Nominee director is an individual who is appointed to act as a director of the company on behalf of another individual or entity. For all foreigners establishing businesses in Singapore, having a nominee director is essential due to regulations from the Accounting & Corporate Regulatory Authority (ACRA).

Here are suitable nominee director services for EP holders in Singapore, allowing the company to transfer ownership to you once your Employment Pass (EP) is approved:

  • Short Term Nominee Director (STND) : 2 months and 6 months

If you are a foreigner, you cannot be the director of the company unless you have an Employment Pass also known as an EP. This renewable work visa permits you to live and work in Singapore, whether you’re an employee, business owner, or anything in between.

It’s the most popular choice for foreigners looking to start a business or relocate to Singapore.

First, You will have to incorporate your company under the name of a local Singapore director (Nominee Director). Then, you will have to apply EPass under your company so that we can transfer the ownership to you under your Employment Pass (EP).

The estimated timeline for the Singapore EP application is between 2-4 months, depending on the case. In some instances, it could drag up to 6 months if multiple rounds of appeals are requested.

Singapore Employment Pass, often referred to as the ‘EP,’ a work visa is issued to foreign professionals, managers, executives, and experts relocating to work in Singapore.

You are eligible to apply for EP if you:-

  • Have Job Offer from Singapore Company in managerial, executive, and specialized job
  • Have at least a fixed minimum salary of S$5,000 per month
  • Have recognized diploma or degree from a reputable university
  • Have professional qualifications, specialist skills, and work-related experience
  • Meet the required minimum of 40 points under the new points-based COMPASS to be eligible for this pass.

Reasons to Apply for a Singapore Employment Pass

  1. Legally reside and work in Singapore.
  2. Enjoy hassle-free travel in and out of the country without needing a Singapore entry visa.
  3. Gain a pathway to potentially obtaining permanent residency in Singapore over time.
  4. Have the flexibility to run and work for your own business in Singapore.
  5. Benefit from Singapore’s low tax rates and favorable income tax system.

Are you a business owner in Singapore looking to expand your operations and reach new markets? Considering entry into a new market or expanding an existing one overseas? The MRA grant offers the financial boost you need to make it happen.

The purpose of the MRA grant is to support Singapore owned businesses for business development, promotion, and set-up costs when you set up a business in oversea.

At least 30% of the company’s equity must be held directly or indirectly by Singapore Permanent Residents (PRs) or citizens, determined by ultimate individual ownership.

The grant covers up to 50% of eligible costs for Local SMEs, with specific caps for different activities and limited to a maximum of S$100,000 per new market and may include:

  • Overseas Market Promotion (capped at S$20,000)
  • Overseas Business Development (capped at S$50,000)
  • Overseas Market Set-up (capped at S$30,000)

Currently, from April 1, 2023 to March 31, 2025, the grant covers up to 50% of eligible costs, capped at S$100,000.

If you are planning to set up business in Singapore, opening a corporate bank account is a mandatory when you first incorporate a company. It also allow you to keep your business transactions separate from your personal transactions and also helps you to track your business cash flows/income and expenses.

We focus is to prove that your company has a tax substance and select an account that best fits your business needs. Most importantly, you DO NOT need to be physically here! We work closely with our trusted bankers to give you a higher success rate in opening a corporate bank account.

If you are a foreigner, you will need a nominee director (local director) to incorporate your company in Singapore.

What is a Nominee Director?
Nominee director is an individual who is appointed to act as a director of the company on behalf of another individual or entity. For all foreigners establishing businesses in Singapore, having a nominee director is essential due to regulations from the Accounting & Corporate Regulatory Authority (ACRA).

There are 2 types of Nominee Director services in Singapore.

They are:

  • Long term Nominee Director (LTND) : 12 months
  • Short Term Nominee Director (STND) : 2 months and 6 months

If you are a foreigner, you cannot be the director of the company unless you have an Employment Pass.

First, You will have to incorporate your company under the name of a local Singapore director (Nominee Director). Then, you will have to apply EPass under your company so that we can transfer the ownership to you under your Employment Pass (EP).

What is Singapore Employment Pass?
Singapore Employment Pass, often referred to as the ‘EP,’ a work visa is issued to foreign professionals, managers, executives, and experts relocating to work in Singapore.

The estimated timeline for the Singapore EP application is between 2-4 months, depending on the case. In some instances, it could drag up to 6 months if multiple rounds of appeals are requested.

Check Your Company Name through ACRA using our free tool!

The requirements for registering a company in Singapore are simple and straightforward. They are:

At least one local resident director

Both Singapore residents and foreigners can serve as directors of a Singapore company, provided there is at least one director who is a Singapore resident.

At least one shareholder

To register a company in Singapore, you need at least one shareholder who can be a person or another company. You can have up to 50 shareholders, and all of them can be foreigners.

Local company secretary

Every Singapore company must have a company secretary who lives in Singapore and is responsible for ensuring the company meets its regulatory requirements and submits necessary filings.

Minimum of $1 Paid up Capital

You can establish your Singapore company with just $1 in paid up capital and share capital. If needed, you can add more funds later and inform the company registrar.

Registered Address in Singapore

Your company needs a registered address in Singapore where all the official documents will be sent to ; a PO box isn’t acceptable.
联系方式

30 Petain Road Singapore 208099

Go to Top