4 minutes How Indian Entrepreneurs Can Legally Register a Company in Singapore
Singapore is one of the most attractive destinations for business expansion, thanks to its low tax rates, ease of company incorporation, and strong legal framework. Many Indian entrepreneurs are setting up companies in Singapore to access global markets and benefit from the country’s business-friendly policies.
This guide provides a step-by-step overview of company registration, covering eligibility criteria, business structures, compliance requirements, foreign directorship rules, visa options, and incorporation costs.
Eligibility to Register a Company in Singapore
To legally set up a company in Singapore, Indian entrepreneurs must meet the following conditions:
- Minimum Age Requirement – The applicant must be at least 18 years old.
- Legal Standing – The person must not have any history of fraud, dishonesty, or financial misconduct.
- Local Director Requirement – At least one director must be a Singapore resident (Citizen, PR, or Employment Pass holder).
- Use of a Corporate Service Provider – Foreigners cannot self-register a company and must engage a corporate service provider (CSP) to complete the incorporation process.
- Compliance with Local Regulations – The company must follow Singapore’s corporate laws, accounting, and tax regulations.
By fulfilling these requirements, Indian entrepreneurs can legally incorporate and operate a business in Singapore.
Types of Companies Indian Entrepreneurs Can Open in Singapore
Indian entrepreneurs can choose from the following business structures:
1. Private Limited Company (Pte. Ltd.) – Best Option for Entrepreneurs
✅ Most popular business structure.
✅ A separate legal entity, ensuring limited liability for owners.
✅ Low corporate tax rates (17%) and eligible for tax incentives.
✅ Requires at least one shareholder (individual or corporate entity).
2. Sole Proprietorship
✅ Suitable for small businesses and freelancers.
❌ Unlimited liability – Business owners are personally liable for debts.
❌ Not ideal for foreign entrepreneurs due to credibility issues.
3. Limited Liability Partnership (LLP)
✅ Suitable for businesses with two or more partners.
✅ Offers limited liability to partners.
❌ Less tax-efficient compared to Private Limited Companies.
4. Branch Office
✅ Allows Indian companies to expand into Singapore.
❌ Not a separate legal entity – The parent company is liable for debts.
❌ Taxed as a foreign entity, leading to possible higher tax obligations.
5. Subsidiary Company
✅ A separate legal entity, protecting the parent company from liabilities.
✅ Eligible for Singapore’s tax benefits.
✅ 100% foreign ownership allowed.
💡 For most Indian entrepreneurs, setting up a Private Limited Company (Pte. Ltd.) is the best option due to its tax benefits, legal protections, and international credibility.
Visa Requirements for Indian Entrepreneurs in Singapore
If an Indian entrepreneur wants to live and operate their company in Singapore, they must apply for a work visa. The main visa options include:
1. Employment Pass (EP) – Best for Company Directors
- Suitable for company directors and high-skilled professionals.
- The company must meet a minimum salary requirement (SGD 5,000 per month, higher for older applicants).
- The Ministry of Manpower (MOM) reviews the application based on qualifications and business activities.
- Once approved, the EP holder can act as the local resident director of the company.
2. EntrePass – Best for Startups & Innovators
- Suitable for Indian entrepreneurs launching innovative startups.
- The business must be in technology, research, or innovative sectors.
- Requires a detailed business plan and proof of funding (SGD 50,000 minimum investment).
3. Dependant Pass (DP) & Letter of Consent (LOC)
- EP or EntrePass holders can bring their family members on a Dependant Pass (DP).
- A DP holder can apply for a Letter of Consent (LOC) to work for the company.
💡 Indian entrepreneurs who do not wish to relocate can operate their company remotely and appoint a Nominee Director to meet the local director requirement.
Compliance Requirements for Indian Entrepreneurs
To legally operate a company in Singapore, Indian entrepreneurs must comply with the following:
Appoint at Least One Local Resident Director – If the entrepreneur is not a Singapore Citizen, PR, or EP holder, they must appoint a Nominee Director.
- Appoint a Company Secretary – A qualified company secretary must be appointed within six months of incorporation.
- Maintain a Registered Office Address – A physical Singapore business address is mandatory.
- Tax and Accounting Compliance –
- File annual returns with ACRA.
- File corporate tax returns with IRAS.
- Register for Goods & Services Tax (GST) if revenue exceeds SGD 1 million.
- Business Licensing (if applicable) – Some industries (finance, healthcare, F&B) require special licenses from regulatory bodies.
Foreign Director Requirements in Singapore
Indian entrepreneurs can act as directors of their Singapore company, but they must:
- Appoint at least one local resident director (if not residing in Singapore).
- Obtain an Employment Pass (EP) or EntrePass if they want to relocate.
- Ensure compliance with corporate laws, including annual tax filings.
If an Indian entrepreneur does not wish to relocate, they can appoint a Nominee Director through a corporate service provider like Premia TNC.
Cost of Registering a Company in Singapore
The cost of setting up a company depends on business needs. Below is an estimated breakdown:
Cost Component | Estimated Cost (SGD) |
Company Name Registration | SGD 15 |
ACRA Company Incorporation Fee | SGD 315 |
Local Nominee Director Service (if required) | SGD 1,500 – 3,000 per year |
Registered Office Address | SGD 300 – 500 per year |
Corporate Secretary (Mandatory) | SGD 300 – 600 per year |
Business License (if applicable) | Varies by industry |
Employment Pass (EP) Application Fee | SGD 105 – 225 |
EntrePass Application Fee | SGD 105 |
Bank Account Opening | Free to SGD 1,000 (varies by bank) |
💡 Total Incorporation Cost:
- Without a nominee director → SGD 600 – 1,500
- With a nominee director → SGD 1,500 – 3,500
Conclusion
Indian entrepreneurs can successfully register a company in Singapore by:
- Choosing the right business structure (Pte. Ltd. recommended).
- Meeting legal requirements and compliance obligations.
- Applying for an Employment Pass (EP) or EntrePass if they want to work in Singapore.
- Engaging a corporate service provider (CSP) for incorporation support.
- Ensuring proper tax and financial compliance.
📞 Looking to set up your business in Singapore? Contact Premia TNC for expert assistance! 🚀
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