Documents Needed for Company Registration in Singapore

Starting a business in Singapore is an exciting venture, but before you can hit the ground running, there’s some paperwork to tackle. The documents needed for company registration in Singapore are the backbone of your application with the Accounting and Corporate Regulatory Authority (ACRA).

Getting them right ensures a smooth process, while slip-ups could mean delays or rejections. Whether you’re a local entrepreneur or a foreign founder, this guide breaks down everything you need, step by step, with practical tips to make it painless.

Why Proper Documentation Is a Big Deal

Think of the documents needed for company registration in Singapore as your business’s first impression with ACRA. They’re not just forms—they’re proof that your company is legitimate and compliant with Singapore’s Companies Act. Without them, ACRA can’t approve your registration, much like how you can’t board a flight without a valid passport.

For instance, submitting an incomplete company constitution might stall your application for weeks. Or if you forget proof of residency for your local director, you’re looking at a rejection. Proper documentation upfront saves you time, money, and headaches—setting your business up for success from day one.

The Full List of Required Documents

The exact documents depend on your company setup (e.g., local vs. foreign directors), but here’s what most applicants need:

1. Company-Specific Documents

• Company Name Approval: Reserve your company name through ACRA’s BizFile+ portal for S$15. It must be unique and free of trademark conflicts.
• Company Constitution: This is your company’s rulebook, detailing how it operates. Use ACRA’s template or create your own, ensuring it meets legal standards.
• Business Activity Description: A short summary of your company’s primary and secondary activities, coded with SSIC (Singapore Standard Industrial Classification).

2. Director and Shareholder Documents

• Identification: Singapore residents provide an NRIC; foreigners need a passport copy.
• Proof of Residency: For local directors, a utility bill or bank statement works. Foreign directors skip this, but you’ll need at least one Singapore resident director.
• Consent to Act as Director: Each director signs a form agreeing to their role.
• Shareholder Details: Individuals provide ID (NRIC or passport); corporate shareholders submit their registration certificate and constitution.

3. Extra Documents for Foreign Entrepreneurs

• Nominee Director Agreement: If you’re hiring a nominee to meet the local director rule, include this agreement (they typically don’t manage daily operations).
• Employment Pass or EntrePass Docs: Relocating to Singapore as a director? You’ll need visa-related documents like educational certificates or a business plan.

Quick Tip: Ensure all scans are clear—blurry documents can slow things down. Non-English documents? Get certified translations, as ACRA only accepts English.

How to Prepare and Submit Your Documents

Here’s a simple roadmap to get your paperwork ready and filed:

1. Collect IDs and Proofs: Grab NRIC copies for locals, passports for foreigners, and residency proof (e.g., utility bills) for the Singapore-based director.
2. Draft the Constitution: Use ACRA’s template or customize one with legal help to comply with the Companies Act.
3. Reserve Your Name: Pay S$15 on BizFile+ to lock in your company name—it’s valid for 120 days.
4. Sign Consent Forms: Every director must sign a Consent to Act form (available on BizFile+). Curious about their duties? Check our Director Requirements in Singapore guide.
5. Gather Shareholder Info: Individuals need ID; corporate entities need registration docs and their constitution.
6. File on BizFile+: Upload everything in PDF format, pay the S$300 fee, and submit. Double-check for accuracy—mistakes here can cost you time.
7. Await Approval: ACRA usually processes within 1-2 days. Watch your email for confirmation or requests for fixes.

Avoid These Common Pitfalls

Even small errors can derail your registration. Here’s what to watch out for:

• Expired IDs: Check that all passports and NRICs are current—an expired document can tank your application.
• Bad Translations: Non-English docs need professional translations. DIY attempts won’t fly with ACRA.
• Missing Signatures: Every director’s Consent form needs a signature—skip one, and you’re stuck.
• Incomplete Constitution: Custom constitutions must include all required clauses (e.g., share rules, director roles).

Dodge these, and you’re golden. For more on the process, see our Private Limited Company Registration in Singapore article.

Latest Policies (As of 2025)

As of February 2025, the requirements for company registration in Singapore have remained consistent, with the Accounting and Corporate Regulatory Authority (ACRA) maintaining steady documentation standards. In December 2024, ACRA introduced a revamped BizFile+ portal, enhancing user experience with improved navigation and data integrity.

As of January 2025, there are 447,759 registered companies in Singapore, with private limited companies being the most prevalent. 

FAQ: Quick Answers to Common Questions

Wrap-Up: Set Yourself Up for Success

Getting the documents needed for company registration in Singapore right is your first step to building a thriving business. Take your time, check your work, and you’ll be registered in no time. Want to confirm your company’s status post-registration? Our ACRA Company Search guide has you covered. Need more help? Reach out to us at Vero or dive into our blog for expert insights.