Singapore is one of the most attractive jurisdictions for business incorporation in Asia, thanks to its stable economy, transparent regulations, and global connectivity. One of the most popular business structures is the Private Limited Company (Pte Ltd), which offers limited liability, scalability, and corporate tax benefits.
If you’re an entrepreneur or investor living overseas, the good news is you can complete Pte Ltd registration in Singapore entirely remotely. Whether you’re expanding internationally, building a digital business, or diversifying your assets, registering a private limited company in Singapore is not only possible from abroad—it’s also efficient.
This article walks you through the step-by-step process of private limited company formation in Singapore without needing to relocate.
Why Choose a Pte Ltd Company in Singapore?
Before diving into the remote setup process, it’s important to understand why so many businesses choose the Pte Ltd structure in Singapore.
Advantages include:
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Limited liability for shareholders
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Separate legal entity status
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Access to tax incentives and exemptions
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Professional corporate image
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100% foreign ownership allowed
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Low corporate tax rate (17%, with exemptions for new startups)
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No capital gains tax or dividend tax
These benefits make Singapore an ideal destination for international entrepreneurs, digital businesses, holding companies, and tech startups.
Can You Really Start a Singapore Company Without Being in Singapore?
Yes, Singapore allows foreign individuals and entities to register and own 100% of a company without needing to physically be present. However, there are a few requirements you must satisfy locally—most of which can be handled through a registered corporate service provider (CSP).
The government mandates that foreigners must work with a licensed filing agent or CSP, since they don’t have access to SingPass (Singapore’s digital ID system).
Key Requirements for Remote Pte Ltd Registration in Singapore
To successfully incorporate a Pte Ltd company from overseas, you’ll need to meet the following criteria:
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Company Name Approval:
Your company name must be approved by the Accounting and Corporate Regulatory Authority (ACRA). The name must be unique and not infringe on trademarks or reserved names. -
Resident Director Requirement:
Every Singapore company must have at least one local director who is either:-
A Singapore citizen or permanent resident
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An EntrePass or Employment Pass holder residing in Singapore
As a foreigner, if you don’t plan to move, you’ll need to appoint a nominee director (a common service provided by CSPs).
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Shareholders:
At least one shareholder is required. You can be the sole shareholder, and both individuals and corporate entities are allowed. -
Company Secretary:
A qualified company secretary must be appointed within six months of incorporation. They ensure regulatory compliance and maintain company records. -
Registered Office Address:
You must provide a local Singapore address to serve as your company’s official address. This is where government correspondence will be sent (cannot be a P.O. box). -
Paid-Up Capital:
Minimum paid-up capital is SGD 1. You can increase this amount later if needed.
Step-by-Step: Registering a Private Limited Company in Singapore from Overseas
Here’s how to start your company in Singapore remotely:
Step 1: Engage a Corporate Service Provider (CSP)
Since you can’t access ACRA’s BizFile+ system directly, your first step is to engage a CSP. They will handle the entire incorporation process, including compliance, documentation, and filing.
Choose a reputable provider that offers:
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Nominee director service
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Company secretary and registered address
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Assistance with bank account opening
Step 2: Submit Required Information and Documents
You’ll be asked to provide:
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Proposed company name
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Business activities (SSIC code)
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Shareholding structure
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Director and shareholder details
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Proof of identity (passport)
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Proof of residential address
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KYC verification documents
The CSP will conduct due diligence as part of anti-money laundering (AML) procedures.
Step 3: Name Reservation and Incorporation Filing
Your CSP will submit the name reservation request to ACRA. Once approved, they will file the incorporation application. This process typically takes 1 to 3 business days, assuming all documents are in order.
You’ll receive the following post-registration:
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Certificate of Incorporation
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Company Business Profile
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Company Constitution (Memorandum & Articles)
These serve as the legal foundation of your business.
Step 4: Open a Corporate Bank Account
Opening a corporate bank account is a necessary step after incorporation. While traditional banks in Singapore may require in-person verification, some international and digital banks offer remote onboarding options, including:
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Wise Business
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Airwallex
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Aspire
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Statrys
Your CSP may also assist by recommending banks that accept non-resident clients or help arrange a virtual meeting for identity verification.
Step 5: Register for Taxes and Licenses (If Applicable)
Depending on your business type, you may need additional licenses or tax registrations:
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GST registration (if turnover exceeds SGD 1 million)
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Import/export licenses
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Industry-specific permits (e.g., finance, food, education)
Singapore’s straightforward regulatory framework makes these registrations manageable, even remotely.
Also Read: Understanding the Procedure for Carrying Out Audits in Singapore
Compliance and Maintenance After Incorporation
Once your Pte Ltd company is set up, you must comply with ongoing regulatory requirements:
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Annual General Meeting (AGM):
Required unless exempt (small companies with fewer than 20 shareholders and no corporate shareholders). -
Annual Return Filing with ACRA:
Must be submitted within 7 months of the financial year-end. -
Corporate Tax Filing with IRAS:
Due annually, even if the company makes no income. -
Maintain Proper Accounting Records:
Financial statements and accounting must be maintained accurately. You may outsource this to accounting firms in Singapore. -
Renew Nominee and Secretary Services Annually:
If you are using a nominee director or secretary, their services are usually renewed yearly.
Your CSP will typically offer a full compliance package to help manage all these responsibilities on your behalf.
Cost to Set Up a Pte Ltd Company Remotely
The cost of private limited company formation in Singapore can vary based on services chosen. A typical breakdown:
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Incorporation package (including name reservation, company secretary, registered address): SGD 500–1,200
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Nominee director service: SGD 1,500–3,000/year
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Bank account opening support: May be included or extra
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Accounting and compliance: Varies depending on business size
While initial costs may seem high, the long-term benefits of operating in a well-regulated, low-tax jurisdiction often outweigh the investment.
Also Read: Understanding Eligibility Criteria for Being a Resident Director in Singapore
Final Thoughts
Registering a private limited company in Singapore from overseas is a straightforward process, thanks to the country’s digital infrastructure and supportive regulatory framework. By partnering with the right corporate service provider, you can incorporate, launch, and manage your business in Singapore without relocating or even visiting the country.
Whether you’re testing a new market, scaling globally, or building a long-term base in Asia, Pte Ltd registration in Singapore offers flexibility, legitimacy, and international credibility.
Take the time to understand the legal requirements, prepare your documents, and choose a reliable partner—and you’ll be well on your way to establishing a successful business presence in Singapore.
FAQs
1. Can I be the sole owner of a Singapore Pte Ltd company as a foreigner?
Yes. A private limited company in Singapore can be 100% foreign-owned. You can be the sole shareholder and appoint a local nominee director to meet statutory requirements.
2. Do I need to visit Singapore to open a corporate bank account?
Not necessarily. Many fintech banks and selected traditional banks offer remote onboarding. Your CSP can advise which banks best fit your needs.
3. Is it mandatory to have a nominee director?
If you’re not relocating to Singapore and don’t have a local resident director, you must appoint a nominee director. This is a standard service offered by most corporate service providers.
