Private Limited Company Registration in Singapore: Your Step-by-Step Guide

Singapore’s reputation as a global business powerhouse makes it an ideal place to launch a company. Among the various business structures available, the private limited company (Pte Ltd) is the most popular, thanks to its flexibility, limited liability, and credibility. If you’re exploring private limited company registration in Singapore, this article breaks down the process, costs, and benefits to help you hit the ground running.

What Is a Private Limited Company?

A private limited company (Pte Ltd) is a business entity that’s legally separate from its owners (shareholders). This separation offers key advantages:

• Limited Liability: Shareholders are only liable for the amount they invest, protecting personal assets like your home or savings.
• Separate Legal Entity: The company can own assets, sign contracts, and incur debts independently.
• Ownership via Shares: You can issue shares to raise capital or distribute ownership.

For example, if you’re starting an e-commerce business, registering as a Pte Ltd shields your personal finances from business risks while allowing you to bring in investors by selling shares. It’s no surprise that over 70% of businesses in Singapore are Pte Ltd companies, according to 2022 data from the Accounting and Corporate Regulatory Authority (ACRA).

Why Choose a Private Limited Company in Singapore?

The Pte Ltd structure offers compelling benefits:

• Credibility: A registered company looks more professional to clients, banks, and investors.
• Scalability: Issuing shares makes it easier to raise funds without changing your business structure.
• Tax Incentives: New Pte Ltd companies enjoy tax exemptions on the first S$100,000 of chargeable income for their first three years, plus a competitive 17% corporate tax rate.
• Perpetual Existence: The company continues even if ownership or management changes.

Compare this to a sole proprietorship, where you’d face unlimited liability—meaning your personal assets could be at risk if the business fails. Curious about other options? Check out our guide on Setting Up a Business in Singapore.

How to Register a Private Limited Company in Singapore

Thanks to ACRA’s efficient online system, private limited company registration in Singapore is quick and straightforward. Follow these steps:

1. Pick a Unique Company Name

• Your name must be original and not infringe on existing trademarks.
• Reserve it through ACRA’s BizFile+ portal for S$15 (valid for 120 days).
• Tip: Avoid rejection by using our Singapore Company Name Check guide.

2. Appoint Directors and Shareholders

• You need at least one director who’s a Singapore resident (citizen, Permanent Resident, or pass holder).
• Shareholders (at least one) can be local or foreign, individuals or companies.
• Dive deeper with our Director Requirements in Singapore article.

3. Draft a Company Constitution

• This document outlines your company’s rules and operations.
• Use ACRA’s default template or customize it with professional help.

4. Prepare Key Documents

• Identification (NRIC/passport) for directors and shareholders.
• Proof of residency for the local director.
• Consent forms for directors.
• See the full checklist in our Documents Needed for Company Registration in Singapore guide.

5. File with ACRA

• Submit your application via BizFile+ and pay the S$300 registration fee.
• Approval usually takes 1-2 days if everything’s in order.

6. Set Up a Corporate Bank Account

• After registration, open a bank account with your certificate of incorporation and company constitution.

Pro Tip: Foreign founders might benefit from hiring a corporate service provider to handle local requirements, like appointing a nominee director.

Requirements for Registration

To register a Pte Ltd, you’ll need to meet these criteria:

• Minimum 1 Director: Must reside in Singapore (citizen, PR, or pass holder).
• Registered Office: A physical address in Singapore (not a P.O. box).
• At Least 1 Shareholder: Can be the same person as the director.
• Company Secretary: Appoint one within six months of incorporation.
• Paid-Up Capital: Starts at just S$1, though a higher amount boosts credibility.

For instance, if you’re based overseas, you could serve as a shareholder and appoint a trusted Singapore resident as your director—or use a nominee service.

Costs of Registering a Pte Ltd

Here’s what you’ll spend:

• Name Reservation: S$15
• Registration Fee: S$300
• Optional Professional Fees: S$500–S$1,000 if you hire help.

Without assistance, the total is S$315. With a service provider, expect S$800–S$1,315. After registration, annual costs like filing fees (S$60) and a company secretary (S$500–S$1,000) apply.

Benefits of a Private Limited Company

Registering a Pte Ltd unlocks significant advantages:

• Limited Liability: Your personal wealth stays safe from business debts.
• Fundraising Power: Attract investors by issuing shares.
• Global Reputation: Singapore’s prestige enhances your brand.
• Tax Breaks: Enjoy exemptions and low rates for startups.

Take a real-world case: A Singapore-based fintech Pte Ltd raised S$1.5 million in 2022 by leveraging its share structure—something a sole proprietorship couldn’t easily do.

Latest Policies (As of 2023)

As of February 2025, the process for registering a private limited company in Singapore remains efficient and is primarily conducted through ACRA’s Bizfile portal. In December 2024, ACRA introduced a new version of Bizfile, enhancing user experience with improved navigation and data integrity. 

In 2024, ACRA reported the formation of 8,000 new private limited companies, reflecting the continued attractiveness of this business structure in Singapore. 

While there have been no major policy changes affecting private limited company registration recently, it’s advisable to consult ACRA’s official website for the most current information, as regulations can evolve.

FAQ: Your Questions Answered

Get Started Today

Registering a private limited company in Singapore is a smart move for entrepreneurs seeking growth and protection. Once you’re set up, confirm your details with an ACRA Company Search. Need more help? Visit our blog or reach out to Vero for expert support.