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Company registration in Singapore is done through ACRA’s Bizfile portal.
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A company must have a resident director, shareholder, company secretary, registered address, and at least S$1 capital.
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The company name must be approved by ACRA before incorporation.
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Registration costs S$300 and approval usually takes a few hours to a few days.
ACRA registration turns your business idea into a recognised, compliant company in Singapore. No more freelancing under your own name or explaining to clients why you don’t have a company profile.
You’ve probably opened five tabs by now. One is the Bizfile portal. One is a Reddit thread. Another is explaining what an SSIC code is. Somehow, it’s only gotten more confusing.
If the process already feels like too much, don’t worry. You’re not doing anything wrong. Company incorporation in Singapore gets much easier once you know what to expect.
This guide walks you through:
- What you need before logging into Bizfile
- How to fill out the form without second-guessing
- What to do after your registration is approved
What is ACRA and why it matters
ACRA (Accounting and Corporate Regulatory Authority) is Singapore’s official company registrar. If you want to start a business here, ACRA registration is your first legal step.
Once you register your company through Bizfile, ACRA’s online portal, your business becomes a legal entity with a Unique Entity Number (UEN).
You’ll need a UEN to:
- Open a business bank account
- Send official invoices
- Apply for grants and licenses
- Stay compliant with Singapore regulations
This isn’t a trial run; ACRA registration is what makes your business real. Whether you’re starting a private limited company or a sole proprietorship, this is where it begins.
ACRA vs Bizfile: Explained for new business owners
ACRA is the government agency in charge of regulating companies in Singapore.
Bizfile is the online system (or portal) that ACRA uses to handle everything digitally, from company registration to annual filings and updates.
Think of ACRA as the authority, and Bizfile as the self-service tool you use to submit documents and manage your business profile. You’ll be interacting with Bizfile, but all of it goes to ACRA.
What to prepare before ACRA registration
Before you even touch the Bizfile form, it helps to get a few key details ready. This not only speeds up the process but also prevents your application from getting delayed or rejected.
Here’s what you’ll need to have on hand:
ACRA company registration checklist
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What you’ll need |
Why it matters |
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Approved business entity name |
You must reserve a unique and ACRA-compliant name for your company on Bizfile. You’ll need the transaction number during registration. Helpful resource: How to Update Company Details Using BizFile |
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Same entity type as name reservation |
You must register the same entity type you selected when reserving your company name (e.g., Pte Ltd, LLP). You can’t switch types mid-way. |
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At least one local director |
Every company must have at least one director who is ordinarily a resident of Singapore. This director could be a citizen, PR, or valid pass holder (e.g., EP, EntrePass). |
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At least one shareholder |
Shareholders can be individuals or companies, local or foreign. One person can be both a director and a shareholder. |
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Company secretary |
Required within 6 months of incorporation. You can appoint one during registration or later. |
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Registered office address (SG) |
This is your company’s official address in Singapore. It must be a physical address (no P.O. boxes). Virtual office addresses are acceptable. |
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Paid-up capital (minimum S$1) |
This is the amount you’re investing in the company. You can increase it later. |
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Company constitution |
This is a legal document that defines how your company is governed. You can use ACRA’s free model constitution or upload your own customised version. |
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SSIC code |
This is a code that describes your main business activity. You’ll select it during registration. Don’t worry, Bizfile will suggest matches. |
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Identification documents |
You’ll need full name, nationality, residential address, and ID/passport details for all directors and shareholders. Bizfile may also request scans. |
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Financial Year End (FYE) |
You must choose your company’s FYE during registration. This affects your filing deadlines. Most startups pick 31 Dec or 31 Mar. |
Want this checklist as a downloadable PDF you can fill in or share?
Download Sleek’s ACRA Registration Prep List.
How to register your company with ACRA
Once you’ve got everything prepared, it’s time to head to Bizfile and start your company registration. The whole process usually takes around 15 to 30 minutes if you’ve done your homework.
Here’s how to do it, step by step.
Quick heads-up before you start:
- You must register the same company type you selected during your name reservation. (For example, if you choose “Private Limited Company,” you can’t switch to “Sole Proprietorship” without reapplying for a new name.)
- If you’re registering the company yourself, the person who reserved the name (the “lodger”) must also be the one to submit the registration, and they must be appointed as a director or company secretary.
- If you’re using a Corporate Service Provider (CSP) like Sleek, we’ll handle everything on your behalf, including this lodger requirement.
Step 1: Log in to Bizfile
Go to www.bizfile.gov.sg and click “Login” at the top right.
Now, choose “Individual User” to transact as an individual. Only Singapore residents (or those with access to a Singpass) can complete this step.
If you’re working with a company registration provider like Sleek, they’ll select “Business User” and complete this step for you. This is especially helpful if you don’t have a Singpass. For example, if you’re a foreign founder setting up remotely.
Note: You must log in using the same account (Singpass or Corppass) that was used to reserve the company name.
CSP users must select the “Corporate Service Provider” tab after login and click “Proceed to dashboard.”
Step 2: Start new company registration
From the mega menu, click: Register > Register new entity > Register new business entity
On the introduction page, select your business name transaction number, click “Retrieve information”, then click “Start” to begin your company registration.
Step 3: Fill in company details
The following fields are auto-filled:
- Entity name
- Entity type (e.g., Private Company Limited by Shares)
- Primary business activity (SSIC code)
Manually enter:
- Financial Year End (FYE) and financial period
- Registered office address (enter postal code → “Retrieve address”)
- Working hours (e.g., “at least 3 hours per business day”)
- Company email address
Step 4: Add position holders
Add individual or corporate position holders:
- Directors (at least one must be locally resident)
- Shareholders
- Company secretary (can be appointed later, within 6 months)
For each position holder, provide:
- Name, ID/passport, date of birth
- Nationality, local/foreign address, and contact details
- Roles held in the company
Click “Add position holder” to include multiple directors, shareholders, or a secretary. Once you’ve entered their details, click “Next” to continue.
Step 5: Share capital and shareholding
After adding all shareholders, you’ll be prompted to allot their shares.
You’ll need to enter:
- Currency type (e.g., SGD)
- Share class (e.g., Ordinary)
- Number of shares
- Paid-up share capital
If applicable, you can also indicate:
- Shares held in trust
- Group shares (shared across multiple shareholders)
Click “Save” after entering each share allotment.
Once you’ve finished assigning shares to all shareholders, click “Next” to move on.
Step 6: Constitution and supporting documents
Choose:
- Use model constitution (ACRA-provided)
- Or upload customised constitution
If you choose ACRA’s model constitution, simply select the option and proceed. If you’ve customised your own, upload it as part of this step.
Upload any other required supporting documents (e.g., scanned IDs)
Step 7: Review and submit
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- Verify all details are correct
- Tick the declaration checkbox
- Click “Submit”
Important:
- If the incorporation is filed by a position holder (not CSP), all other position holders must endorse the application via Bizfile before payment.
- If filed by a CSP, endorsements are not required.
Step 8: Pay the incorporation fee
- Once all endorsements are done (if applicable), Bizfile will send a payment link
- Choose whether to request a special UEN
- Pay the S$315 fee via credit card or PayNow
Step 9: Receive confirmation
Once approved, you’ll receive:
- UEN (Unique Entity Number)
- Certificate of Incorporation
- Bizfile Business Profile (PDF)
Processing Time: Most applications are approved within 1–3 business days, but those with regulated terms may take up to 15 working days.
What happens after ACRA registration
As mentioned above, once your application is approved, you’ll receive a few key documents from ACRA:
- Unique Entity Number (UEN) – Your company’s official ID
- Certificate of Incorporation – Confirms your business is legally registered
- Bizfile Business Profile – Contains all your company details (used when opening bank accounts, applying for grants, etc.)
Congrats! Your business is now officially live in the eyes of Singapore law.
But you’re not quite done yet. There are a few essential steps to wrap up your setup and stay compliant from day one.
1. Open a business bank account
Most banks will ask for:
- Your Bizfile Business Profile
- Your UEN
- ID documents for all directors and shareholders
Shortcut: Want to skip in-person queues? Sleek’s business account lets you open one online, fast.
2. Appoint a company secretary (if you haven’t yet)
Under the Companies Act, you need to appoint a qualified company secretary within 6 months of incorporation.
The secretary helps:
- Track compliance deadlines
- File annual returns
- Maintain company records
If you registered with Sleek, your secretary is already included. One less thing to worry about.
3. Consider GST registration
If you expect to earn over S$1 million/year, you must register for GST. But even if you’re not there yet, it can still be worth it, especially if:
- Your clients are GST-registered businesses
- You want to claim input tax on expenses
4. Set up your business operations
Now’s the time to:
- Get your invoicing and payment tools in place
- Buy your domain name and set up email
- Start tracking business expenses (this makes tax season easier later)
5. Stay ahead of compliance
To stay in good standing, here’s what you’ll need to track:
- Annual Return filing with ACRA
- AGM (Annual General Meeting), unless exempted
- Corporate tax filing with IRAS
- Changes in directors, shareholders, or registered address
How Sleek helps with ACRA registration
You could register your company yourself. You could spend hours reading ACRA guides, second-guessing SSIC codes, figuring out when to appoint a secretary, and wondering if a wrong detail will derail your application.
Or, you could let Sleek handle it for you.
For many first-time founders, ACRA registration is the hardest part. Sleek makes it easier by handling the details and keeping you compliant.
Here’s what we do to simplify your ACRA registration process:
- Not sure what structure to choose? We guide you through the best fit (Pte Ltd, Sole Prop, or LLP), based on your goals.
- Confused by Bizfile? You never have to log into it. We handle the entire process for you.
- Worried about making a mistake? Our experts review everything before submission, so your application goes through smoothly the first time.
- Need a local director, address, or secretary? It’s all included. No piecemeal setup or back-and-forth with multiple vendors.
- Starting from overseas? Sleek is built for remote founders. We help you incorporate without setting foot in Singapore.
Sleek isn’t just here to get you registered. We’re here to ensure nothing important slips through while you build something real.
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FAQs about ACRA Registration in Singapore
What are the charges involved in registering a company in Singapore?
Registering a private limited company in Singapore requires an ACRA filing fee of S$315. With Sleek, incorporation packages start from S$650, which already cover the government fee along with essentials such as digital documents, a company secretary, and expert support. Higher-tier plans are also available if you need additional services like a registered address, nominee director, or accounting support.
For a detailed breakdown of fees and package options, see our comprehensive guide to Singapore company registration costs.
What happens if I make a mistake during ACRA registration?
If your submission contains an error, ACRA may reject your application or request corrections, which can delay your registration by several days. This is why it’s important to review everything carefully or register through Sleek to avoid common mistakes and get it done right the first time.
What if I choose the wrong SSIC code? Will it mess up my company?
No, choosing the wrong SSIC code won’t break your ACRA registration. It’s mainly for classification and reporting purposes. You can update it later if your business activity changes. Choose the code that most closely matches your starting business model and don’t stress over picking the “perfect” one.
I don’t have a local director. Does that mean I can’t register at all?
If you’re not based in Singapore and don’t have a local director, you won’t be able to complete your ACRA registration directly through Bizfile. But that doesn’t mean you’re stuck. Sleek offers nominee director services that allow foreign entrepreneurs to set up and run their companies remotely and legally.
Can I register a company with my friend?
Yes, you can register a company with your friend as long as both of you meet ACRA’s requirements. That means at least one of you must be a local resident director, and both must provide valid ID. ACRA registration allows for multiple shareholders and directors, so co-founding together is totally legal and common.
What is the ACRA certificate and how do I obtain it?
The ACRA certificate, officially called the Certificate of Incorporation, confirms that your company has been successfully registered in Singapore. It includes key details like your company name, UEN, and registration date. After your ACRA registration is approved, this certificate is automatically generated and sent to you via email. You can also download it later anytime from Bizfile.
Will I receive physical documents after my ACRA registration is approved?
No physical documents are mailed. Once your ACRA registration is approved, you’ll receive digital copies of your Certificate of Incorporation and Bizfile business profile via email. These PDFs are valid for all business needs, including opening a bank account and applying for grants. There’s nothing to collect in person.
How soon can I start operating after ACRA registration?
Once your ACRA registration is approved and you receive your Unique Entity Number (UEN), your company is legally active. You can start issuing invoices, signing contracts, and opening a business bank account immediately. This approval typically happens within one to three business days if there are no issues.
