How to register a Private Limited company in Singapore?
In the competitive landscape of business, establishing a Private Limited Company in Singapore can significantly enhance your credibility and growth opportunities. This comprehensive guide will walk you through the steps involved, ensuring a seamless registration process for your venture.
What Is a Private Limited Company?
A Private Limited Company in Singapore, as regulated by the Accounting and Corporate Regulatory Authority (ACRA), is a form of limited liability company. In contrast to public limited companies and companies limited by guarantee, a private limited company offers distinct and autonomous shareholding privileges.
Unlike its counterparts, a private limited company is not obligated to trade its shares publicly on the stock market. Instead, ACRA mandates that members of such companies maintain private ownership and control over their shares. This control is exercised based on the regulations stipulated in the company’s constitution. Shareholders are not compelled to engage in public trading, ensuring a level of exclusivity and independence unique to private limited companies in Singapore.
Who is eligible to establish a Private Limited Company in Singapore?
In Singapore, the opportunity to establish a Private Limited Company is open to both individuals and corporate organisations, as specified in the Singapore Companies Act. These entities, whether individuals or corporations are collectively referred to as shareholders. Their ownership in the company is measured through shares, a quantifiable representation of their stakes in the business.
Moreover, identifying a Private Limited Company in Singapore is straightforward. The presence of specific suffixes in the business name, such as “Ltd”, “Pte Ltd”, or “Private Limited”, as registered by the Accounting and Corporate Regulatory Authority (ACRA), indicates the company’s private limited liability status. This clear naming convention simplifies the recognition of these distinctive business entities.
Why Register a Private Limited Company in Singapore?
Singapore’s business-friendly environment, strategic location, and robust legal system make it an ideal choice for entrepreneurs. Registering a Private Limited Company here offers global recognition, tax benefits, and access to a skilled workforce.
Advantages of Establishing a Private Limited Company in Singapore
Limited Liability Protection
One of the key benefits of setting up a Private Limited Company (LTD) in Singapore is the concept of limited liability. This status establishes the company as a distinct legal entity, separate from its shareholders. This separation means that shareholders, as well as company owners and CEOs, are shielded from personal responsibility for the company’s debts and obligations. The law safeguards personal assets from being affected by the company’s financial disputes, allowing the company to declare bankruptcy without impacting shareholders’ personal wealth.
Number and Types of Shareholders
While there is flexibility in terms of shareholder composition, an LTD in Singapore is required to have a minimum of 1 shareholder and can have up to 50 shareholders. Both individuals and corporate entities are eligible to be registered as shareholders in a Singapore company.
Number and Value of Shares
Singapore’s Companies Act does not impose limitations on the volume of shares a company can issue. Shareholders of LTD can possess any number of shares they desire. The ownership percentage in an LTD is determined by the share percentage held. For example, owning 50% of a company with 1,000 shares or 25% of a company with 2,000 shares. These percentages dictate the corresponding portion of profits and capital entitlement.
Minimum Paid-Up Capital
The minimum paid-up capital for a limited liability company in Singapore is S$1. This minimal requirement provides an accessible entry point for entrepreneurs, both local and foreign, to conduct business in the country. Companies are also free to augment their paid-up and share capital after incorporation.
Share Trading Freedom
An LTD in Singapore enjoys unrestricted share trading. Shares can be transferred internally or sold to third-party investors to raise capital. To facilitate this, a private sale agreement in accordance with the company’s constitution is required.
The Role of the Company Constitution
The constitution document submitted during LTD registration governs the company’s operations and the relationships among shareholders. ACRA referred to it as the Memorandum and Articles of Association. This document plays a pivotal role in shaping the internal workings of the company.
Statutory Compliance
However, it is essential to note that an LTD in Singapore comes with extensive compliance responsibilities. The process of company registration in Singapore, although advantageous, can be perceived as complex and costly due to these intricate compliance requirements. Adhering to these regulations is vital for the smooth functioning and legal standing of the company in Singapore’s business landscape.
Advantages of a Singapore Private Limited Company
Setting up a Singapore Private Limited Company offers several notable advantages for entrepreneurs and businesses:
1. Limited Liability Protection: The company is legally separate, safeguarding your personal assets from any business-related disputes or liabilities.
2. Private Share Trading: You are not obligated to trade company shares publicly, ensuring confidentiality and control over ownership.
3. Low Capital Requirement: You can establish an entity with just one member and as little as S$1 in paid-up capital, making it accessible for entrepreneurs.
4. Profitable Activities: Private Limited Companies can engage in profitable ventures and distribute returns among members, fostering business growth.
5. Flexible Ownership Transfer: Ownership can be transferred internally or externally, allowing seamless share trading with members or third parties.
6. Expandable Capital: The share capital and number of shares are not fixed, enabling company expansion and raising capital by selling shares to new investors.
7. Perpetual Existence: Private Limited Companies can exist indefinitely, providing a stable foundation for long-term business operations.
8. Tax Benefits: The Inland Revenue Authority of Singapore offers a range of tax benefits to private limited companies, promoting financial efficiency.
9. Property Ownership: Private Limited Companies have the freedom to purchase and own property, including real estate, facilitating business operations.
10. Banking Facilities: Financial institutions view private limited companies as bankable entities. This recognition allows businesses to establish bank accounts and credit lines, essential for loan applications and financial transactions.
Essential Requirements for Private Limited Company Registration
When registering a Private Limited Company in Singapore, the following key criteria must be met:
Approved Company Name: Select a unique company name that is not like existing businesses and has approval from the relevant authorities.
Minimum Initial Paid-up Capital of S$1: Provide a minimum paid-up capital of S$1 at the time of company formation, demonstrating financial commitment.
1 – 50 Shareholders: Have a minimum of one shareholder and can have up to a maximum of 50 shareholders, who can be individuals or corporate entities.
At Least 1 Local or Resident Director: Appoint at least one director who is a local resident, such as a Singapore citizen, Permanent Resident, or an EntrePass holder.
At Least 1 Company Secretary: Appoint a qualified company secretary within six months from the incorporation date. The company secretary ensures compliance with legal requirements.
Local Registered Physical Address: Provide a local registered physical address as the company’s official location. It cannot be a P.O. Box and is used for official communication and legal purposes.
Adhering to these requirements is crucial for the successful registration and operation of a Private Limited Company in Singapore.
Documents Required for Company Registration in Singapore
Setting up a company in Singapore involves a meticulous process and requires several essential documents. Here is a comprehensive list of the documents you will need:
1. Company Name: Choose a unique name for your company, ensuring it is distinct from existing businesses. ACRA rejects names like existing ones. Register identical or similar names for both the company and its website for effective branding.
2. Business Activities: Clearly describe your business activities in your application, using appropriate Singapore Standard Industrial Classification Code (SSIC).
3. Shareholding: A minimum initial paid-up capital of S$1 is required during company formation. The company can issue one or more shares to its initial shareholders and can raise additional funds later by issuing more shares.
4. Shareholders’ Agreement: A well-defined shareholders’ agreement outlines rights, obligations, and relationships among shareholders, essential for resolving future disputes.
5. Particulars of Shareholders: At least one shareholder, either corporate or individual, is needed. Both locals and foreigners can hold 100% shareholding in the company. A private limited company can have up to 50 shareholders.
6. Particulars of Directors: Appoint at least one local or resident director, a Singapore citizen, Permanent Resident, or an EntrePass holder with a local address. A shareholder can also act as a director.
7. Registered Office Address: Provide a physical office address for official communication; it cannot be a P.O. Box. The Home Office Scheme allows the use of a local residential address with prior permission.
8. Company Secretary Particulars: Appoint a qualified company secretary within 6 months from incorporation, or employ one from a registered filing agent.
9. Memorandum & Articles of Association (M&AA): The memorandum outlines the company’s activities, while the Articles of Association define internal management rules. You can obtain a standard M&AA document from ACRA or create a customised one with a company secretary.
10. Hire an Auditor: Every Singaporean company must hire an auditor within three months of incorporation, unless exempted due to “Small Company” status or belonging to a “Small Group.”
11. Certificate of Incorporation: ACRA issues a Certificate of Incorporation after registration, proving the company’s legal existence and nature. It is essential for business agreements and transactions with governments and agencies.
12. Company’s Business Profile: Pay ACRA fees to obtain the business profile, containing vital details like company name, Unique Entity Number (UEN), incorporation date, business activities, capital, and stakeholders’ particulars.
13. Share Certificates: The company secretary issues share certificates to shareholders, indicating the number of shares owned and serving as proof of ownership.
14. First Board Resolution: The Board of Directors must pass resolutions within a month of registration, appointing key individuals and outlining the company’s functioning.
15. Resolution for Opening of Bank Account: The board passes a resolution to open a bank account in the company’s name, specifying account signatories.
Ensuring these documents are accurate and complete is vital for a smooth company registration process in Singapore.
More information
Company Secretary and Regulatory Compliance
When registering a company in Singapore, it is imperative to appoint a Company Secretary within six months of incorporation, as stipulated by the Singapore Companies Act. The Company Secretary must be an individual who is “ordinarily” a resident of Singapore. This role carries legal responsibilities and involves shared duties with directors, specifically in tasks mandated by the Companies Act.
A Company Secretary plays a vital role in administering the company efficiently. This includes ensuring compliance with statutory and regulatory requirements. They are responsible for implementing decisions made by the board of directors, ensuring smooth governance and adherence to legal obligations.
Company Licenses and Permits
Depending on the nature of the company’s activities, one or more licenses and permits may be necessary. While not all businesses require a license, specific operations such as travel agencies, cleaning services, import/export businesses, restaurants, educational institutes, and financial services must obtain licenses before commencing operations.
GST Registration
Companies with an expected annual turnover exceeding S$1 million are required to register for Goods and Services Tax (GST). GST is an indirect tax levied on goods and services consumption in Singapore. A GST-registered company must charge consumers a GST rate of 8% on its goods and services.
Following company registration, certain administrative aspects must be managed:
Company’s Stamp: A company’s rubber stamp, bearing its name and registration details, enhances the credibility of official documents and projects a professional image.
Company Seal: A registered business in Singapore is required to have a company seal on legal documents and share certificates, signifying authenticity.
Share Certificates: Shareholders receive share certificates from the company secretary, serving as proof of ownership. These certificates detail the distribution of shares among shareholders and are essential for maintaining transparency and ownership records.
About SOAS
SOAS specializes in offering a comprehensive range of services in Singapore, including Company Incorporation, Accounting and Bookkeeping, and Company Secretarial services. Our team provides personalized Finance Management and Business Coaching, tailoring our approach to suit your unique needs and goals, and ensuring your success in every endeavor. Let’s get started with us.