
Ensuring that you’re working with legally registered companies is crucial for entrepreneurs and businesses in Singapore. Whether you’re verifying a supplier, a potential partner, or your own company’s details, finding a company’s registration number (also called the Unique Entity Number, or UEN) is essential for conducting due diligence.
If you’re wondering how to check company registration in Singapore, this guide has you covered. We’ll explain why company registration numbers matter, outline the key methods to verify them, and provide clear steps to ensure you’re accessing accurate and authentic information.
Why is it important to check Singapore company registration number?
A company registration number, or Unique Entity Number (UEN), is a unique identifier issued to businesses and legal entities registered under Singapore’s Accounting and Corporate Regulatory Authority (ACRA). Similar to a digital fingerprint, the UEN is required for all government and financial transactions, from applying for permits to filing taxes.
Checking a registered company’s number is a critical step in protecting your business and ensuring trustworthiness when forming new connections. Here’s why it matters:
- Ensure legal validity: A registered UEN confirms that the business is officially recognized by Singapore’s government agencies. This simple step assures you—whether you’re investing in a partnership or engaging with suppliers—that you’re working with a credible entity.
- Prevent fraud and scams: Verifying a company’s UEN helps safeguard your organization against fraudulent businesses that could exploit unverified dealings. It’s a critical part of business risk management.
- Enable smarter decision-making: Checking the registration provides clarity during business transactions, ensuring transparency when entering into agreements, contracts, or negotiations.
- Perform due diligence: Accurate company information ensures regulatory compliance and demonstrates your commitment to thorough decision-making—a must for any entrepreneur or business owner.
How to check company registration number in Singapore
Using ACRA’s BizFile+ Portal
If you’re not sure how to search company registration numbers, using ACRA’s BizFile+ is the most reliable and user-friendly way. ACRA’s BizFile+ is the go-to platform for obtaining official business registration details in Singapore.
Whether you’re verifying a company’s legitimacy or gathering details for due diligence, BizFile+ simplifies the process. Follow these steps to check registered company:
Step 1: Navigate to the BizFile+ Portal
Visit the official ACRA BizFile+ website. This is the Singapore government’s trusted platform for all business-related queries and transactions, including performing an ACRA check on a company.
Step 2: Use the Entity Search feature
On the homepage, locate and click the “Entity Search” option. This tool allows you to search for companies by their name, partial name, or keywords, making it convenient to find the information you need even if you don’t have the full company name.
Step 3: Enter company details
Input the business name or a partial match in the search bar. If you’re unsure of the exact name, try using keywords or variations to refine your search. The portal is intuitive and will provide a list of potential matches based on your input. You can also use additional filters, such as business type or registration date, to narrow down your results.
Step 4: Identify the UEN
The company’s UEN will appear in the search results, along with basic registration details, such as the company’s status, registration type, and date of incorporation. These details are crucial for confirming the authenticity of the business.
Pro tip:
Always double-check the company’s active status in the search results to ensure it’s operational and legally sound. An inactive status may indicate that the company is no longer in operation or has been struck off the register. Additionally, take note of the registration type and incorporation date for better context about the company’s history.
Checking through SGSecure QR Code
The SGSecure QR Code is a unique and innovative feature that some businesses in Singapore integrate into their official documents, such as invoices, business agreements, and marketing materials.
This QR code acts as a quick and efficient tool to verify key business information. By scanning the SGSecure QR Code, users can easily check Singapore company details, ensuring transparency and authenticity in business dealings.
Below are the steps on how to check Singapore company details using these codes:
- Locate the QR code: Look for the SGSecure QR code on the company’s official communication materials, including invoices, marketing brochures, business cards, or contracts.
- Open a QR code scanner on your device: Use your smartphone’s native camera app to scan the QR code. If your camera doesn’t support QR code scanning, download a trusted QR code reader app from the app store.
- Position and scan the code: Hold your device steady and ensure the QR code is positioned properly within the scanner window. Some apps may require you to tap a button to initiate the scan, while others will automatically detect and process the QR code.
- View the details: Once scanned, you’ll be redirected to a secure webpage displaying important business registration details. This includes the company’s UEN, legal name, and other pertinent information that can confirm the legitimacy of the business.
Seeking professional help
If verifying a company’s UEN online or through QR codes proves challenging, consider enlisting the help of professional corporate service providers.
Trusted firms like BBCIncorp can provide accurate company registration data and handle administrative tasks, streamlining your business processes. Their tailored services include UEN verification, background checks, and ensuring compliance with local regulations—saving you valuable time and effort.
Why choose BBCIncorp’s corporate secretary service?
- Extensive expertise: With strong experience and credentials as company secretary in Singapore, BBCIncorp ensures that all regulatory and administrative tasks are handled with precision.
- Efficient verification processes: We take care of verifying important details, such as company registration numbers, on your behalf. This ensures accuracy, minimizes errors, and meets compliance requirements.
- Time-saving support: By outsourcing these tasks, you can free up valuable time to prioritize core business functions and strategic planning, while leaving the administrative work in professional hands.
Strengthen your business confidence
Verifying a company registration number is straightforward yet vital for building trustworthy partnerships and ensuring smooth operations. To check company registration in Singapore, you can rely on trusted resources like ACRA BizFile+ or SGSecure QR Codes. Alternatively, you may contact BBCIncorp via service@bbcincorp.com for practical guidance.
Make diligent checks a standard part of your process, whether you’re collaborating with vendors or exploring new partnerships. With these actionable methods, you empower your business with transparency and trust.
Frequently Asked Questions
What to do if the UEN is not found or is listed as “inactive”?
If the UEN is missing or inactive on ACRA’s BizFile+, it may suggest the company isn’t legally registered or is no longer operating. For confirmation, reach out to the company directly or consult ACRA for further clarification.
What information should I check beside the company registration number?
Always review the company’s official name, registration status, operational sectors, ownership, and financial details if possible. These key details ensure you have a full picture of the organization.
What should I do if the ACRA website search returns incomplete results?
Start by double-checking the search terms you used. Even small spelling mistakes, incorrect formatting, or outdated company details can lead to incomplete or inaccurate results.
Ensure that the information you are entering matches the official records as closely as possible. If the problem still persists after verifying your input, you can reach out to ACRA’s support team for assistance.
Do I have to pay a fee to check company active status on ACRA?
Basic searches for UEN checks on BizFile+ are free. However, in-depth reports or additional services may incur a fee. Pricing details are available on the BizFile+ portal.
How can I verify foreign companies operating in Singapore?
For foreign companies, ensure they have registered a branch or subsidiary with ACRA and possess a UEN. Alternatively, reach out to relevant trade associations for additional insights.
Disclaimer: While BBCIncorp strives to make the information on this website as timely and accurate as possible, the information itself is for reference purposes only. You should not substitute the information provided in this article for competent legal advice. Feel free to contact BBCIncorp’s customer services for advice on your specific cases.
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