LLC Singapore: Meaning, Types, Costs and Setup

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An LLC Singapore usually refers to a Singapore company with limited liability, most commonly a private company limited by shares, or Pte. Ltd. This structure gives shareholders limited liability, separate legal personality, and a formal framework for ownership, tax, governance, and annual compliance.

ACRA describes a company as a separate legal entity that can sue, be sued, and own property in the company’s name. Let’s explore LLCs in detail in the article below.

Key Takeaways

“LLC” is an international term, not an ACRA registration label. In Singapore the equivalent structure is a private company limited by shares (Pte. Ltd.).
Official ACRA set-up cost is SG$315 (SG$15 name application + SG$300 incorporation). Realistic first-year cost is higher once secretary, registered office and, for foreigners, nominee directors are added.
Every company needs at least one shareholder and at least one director who is ordinarily resident in Singapore.
Corporate tax is a flat 17%, but for YA 2026 IRAS grants a CIT Rebate of 50% of tax payable (capped at SG$40,000), plus start-up and partial tax exemption schemes for qualifying companies.
Audit exemption is based on the small company test (2 of 3 criteria for 2 consecutive years) — not on exempt private company status.

What is an LLC in Singapore?

An LLC in Singapore generally refers to a company structure that gives its owners limited liability, separate legal identity, and a formal corporate framework. In practice, foreign founders searching for an “LLC Singapore” are usually referring to a private company limited by shares, commonly known as a Pte. Ltd.

This distinction matters because “LLC” is widely used in international business language, but it is not the main registration label used by the Accounting and Corporate Regulatory Authority (ACRA) for local companies. ACRA categorizes business structures as sole proprietorships, partnerships, limited partnerships, limited liability partnerships, and companies such as Pte. Ltd⁽¹⁾ .

A company such as a Pte. Ltd. is a separate legal entity. This means it can sue, be sued, and own property in the company’s own name. Its shareholders have limited liability, so they are generally not personally responsible for the company’s debts and losses.

For entrepreneurs, this makes an LLC-style company suitable when the goal is to build a credible business structure, separate personal and business risk, issue shares, bring in investors, and maintain continuity even when shareholders or directors change. However, this structure also comes with more rules and yearly paperwork than simpler business structures.

In short, an LLC in Singapore is best understood as an international term for a limited liability company structure, while the most common practical registration choice is a private company limited by shares, or Pte. Ltd.

Types of limited liability company in Singapore

Singapore offers several company types that provide limited liability, but the right choice depends on ownership structure, fundraising plans, reporting obligations, and whether the entity is commercial or non-profit. For most startups, SMEs, and foreign founders, the private company limited by shares is the most practical option.

Type of limited liability company	How it works	Ownership or member limit	Best suited for
Exempt private company (Pte. Ltd.)	A private company with a smaller ownership base and no corporate shareholders.	Up to 20 individual shareholders	Small businesses, founder-led startups, and closely held companies
Private company limited by shares (Pte. Ltd.)	A privately owned company with share capital and limited liability for shareholders.	Up to 50 individual or corporate shareholders	Startups, SMEs, foreign-owned companies, subsidiaries, and growth businesses
Public company limited by shares (Ltd.)	A company that can access public investment markets and sell shares to the public, subject to stricter requirements.	No shareholder limit	Larger companies planning public fundraising or listing
Public company limited by guarantee (Ltd.)	A company without share capital. Members agree to contribute a set amount if the company is wound up.	No shareholders; at least one member acting as guarantor	Charities, non-profits, trade associations, and mission-driven organizations

Private limited company

For entrepreneurs aiming for long-term growth and credibility, the Private Limited Company in Singapore (Pte. Ltd.) is the most widely adopted structure in Singapore. It allows up to 50 shareholders, either individuals or corporate entities, while prohibiting public share offerings.

With its separate legal identity and access to tax incentives, this model dominates new business incorporations. What sets this structure apart is its ability to combine professional credibility with operational flexibility:

It can own property, sign contracts, and sue or be sued in its own name.
Shareholders’ liability is capped at their shareholding contribution.
Eligible for corporate tax benefits, including start-up exemptions.
Viewed favourably by banks and investors for fundraising.

The Pte. Ltd. in Singapore strikes the best balance between liability protection, tax efficiency, and growth potential.

Exempt private company

Smaller enterprises often turn to the Exempt Private Company in Singapore (EPC) for its simplified compliance framework. Restricted to 20 individual shareholders with no corporate ownership, this entity enjoys greater flexibility in management and lower compliance costs.

Its appeal lies in reduced regulatory obligations that make it more cost-effective to maintain:

Solvent EPCs are exempt from filing financial statements with ACRA; they instead make an online solvency declaration as part of the annual return.
Annual filing requirements are simplified compared to larger entities.
EPCs may grant loans to directors, a privilege not available to other companies. Under Section 162 of the Companies Act 1967, the general prohibition on loans to directors does not apply to an exempt private company. The loan must still be authorised by board resolution and disclosed in the financial statements.

EPCs provide a practical choice for SMEs seeking flexibility and affordability without sacrificing legal protection.

Audit exemption is a separate test

An EPC is not automatically exempt from audit. A private company qualifies as a “small company” and is exempt from statutory audit only if it meets at least two of these three criteria for each of the two immediately preceding financial years: total annual revenue of SG$10 million or less, total assets of SG$10 million or less, and 50 or fewer full-time employees.

A newly incorporated company qualifies if it meets the criteria in its current financial year. Companies within a group must also meet the criteria on a consolidated group basis. ACRA opened a review of these thresholds in 2026; the figures above remain in force as at July 2026⁽²⁾ .

Public company limited by shares

For business planning to raise significant capital, the Public Company by Shares is the structure of choice. With no restriction on the number of shareholders, this type of company can issue shares to the public and potentially list on the Singapore Exchange (SGX).

The defining characteristics of this structure focus on capital raising on governance:

Unlimited number of shareholders permitted.
Shares may be offered to the public to raise funds.
Subject to higher disclosure and compliance standards.
Mandatory annual audits regardless of company size.

Though more complex and costly to manage, this structure offers unparalleled opportunities for expansion through access to public markets.

Public company limited by guarantee

When the mission is social or charitable rather than profit-oriented, the Public Company Limited by Guarantee (CLG) provides the right framework. Instead of shareholders, members agree to contribute a nominal amount in the event of winding up.

Its unique value lies in supporting organisations that reinvest resources into their objectives rather than distributing profits:

Operates without share capital; members act as guarantors.
Commonly used by charities, professional bodies, and non-profits.
Requires at least one member acting as guarantor, at least one director who is ordinarily resident in Singapore, and a company secretary appointed within six months of incorporation.
Eligible for charity registration with the Commissioner of Charities. Charity registration carries its own governance conditions, including a minimum of three governing board members, of whom at least two must be Singapore citizens or permanent residents.

CLGs ensure accountability and provide legal personality to mission-driven organisations, strengthening their credibility with donors and regulators.

From Private and Exempt Private Companies to Public Company Limited by Shares or by Guarantee, Singapore’s LLC framework accommodates enterprises of every size and purpose.

Whether the goal is cost-efficient operation, credibility in financial markets, or a formal identity for non-profits, there is a company type designed to match those needs.

What is the difference between LLC, LLP and Sole Proprietorship in Singapore?

Choosing between an LLC-style company, an LLP, and a sole proprietorship in Singapore depends on how much liability protection, ownership flexibility, tax planning, and compliance structure your business needs.
For most foreign founders and growth-oriented businesses, an LLC-style company, typically a Pte. Ltd., offers the strongest legal separation and scalability.

Aspect	LLC-style company / Pte. Ltd.	Limited Liability Partnership (LLP)	Sole Proprietorship
Definition	A company incorporated under the Companies Act, commonly structured as a private company limited by shares.	A partnership structure with separate legal personality and limited liability for partners.	The simplest business form with one owner.
Best suited for	Startups, SMEs, foreign founders, subsidiaries, holding companies, and businesses planning to scale or raise funds.	Professional firms, consultants, agencies, and small partnership-led businesses where partners actively manage the business.	Solo entrepreneurs, freelancers, and very small businesses testing the market with simple operations.
Owned by	Shareholders who own the company through shares. ACRA states that all companies must have at least one shareholder.	Two or more partners, which may be individuals, local companies, foreign companies, or other LLPs.	One owner, which may be an individual, company, or LLP.
Legal status	Separate legal entity. It can sue, be sued, and own property in the company’s name.	Separate legal entity. It can sue, be sued, buy and own property, and perform legal acts similar to companies.	Not a separate legal entity from the owner. The owner sues, is sued, and owns property in their own name.
Liability	Shareholders have limited liability and are generally not personally responsible for the company’s debts and losses.	Partners have limited liability for debts caused by other partners, but remain liable for debts from their own wrongful actions.	The owner has unlimited liability and is personally responsible for all business debts and losses.
Management structure	Managed by directors. Directors do not always need to own shares.	Managed by partners and at least one manager who meets ACRA’s requirements.	Managed directly by the owner, making it simple but less separate from the owner’s personal affairs.
Registration requirements	At least one shareholder and at least one director who is ordinarily resident in Singapore. Post-registration requirements include company secretary within six months, auditor within three months unless exempt, statutory registers, AGM where required, and annual returns.	At least two partners and at least one local manager. LLPs must maintain accounting records and file annual declarations.	One owner. Foreigners living overseas must engage a Corporate Service Provider and appoint at least one authorised representative who meets local residency requirements.
Official setup fee	SG$315, made up of SG$15 name application fee and SG$300 incorporation fee.	SG$115, made up of SG$15 name application fee and SG$100 registration fee.	SG$115 for one-year registration or SG$175 for three-year registration.
Tax treatment	Profits are taxed at Singapore corporate tax rates. IRAS states that companies are taxed at a flat 17% rate on chargeable income.	Profits are taxed at the partners’ personal or corporate tax rates, depending on the partner type.	Profits of an individual sole proprietor are generally taxed at personal income tax rates.
Continuity	Perpetual succession. The company continues to exist until formally wound up or struck off, regardless of changes in shareholders or directors.	Continues to exist until formally wound up or struck off.	Continues as long as the owner is alive and chooses to continue it.
Ownership transfer	Ownership can be transferred partly or wholly by transferring shares. Transfers must be documented and filed where required.	Transfer of partnership interest requires agreement among partners under the LLP agreement.	The business cannot be transferred as a separate entity; the owner sells or ceases the business.
Closing the business	Must be formally wound up or struck off the register.	Must be formally wound up or struck off.	Can be closed by formally ceasing operations. ACRA may also cancel the registration if it is not renewed or no longer running.

In short, an LLC-style company, usually a Pte. Ltd., is the better choice when you need a scalable structure, limited liability, investor readiness, and stronger separation between ownership and management.

An LLP is more suitable for professional or partnership-led businesses that want flexibility with lower administrative burden. A sole proprietorship is the simplest option, but it offers the weakest protection because the owner and business are not legally separate.

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Advantages and disadvantages of a Limited Liability Company in Singapore

An LLC in Singapore, commonly understood as a Private Limited Company (Pte. Ltd.), is suitable for founders who need liability protection, business credibility, investor readiness, and long-term continuity.

The trade-off is that a company has more rules, filings, officers, and yearly paperwork than simpler structures such as a sole proprietorship or partnership. ACRA states that a company offers strong personal asset protection because it is a separate legal entity, but it also has the most rules and more yearly paperwork.

Factor	Key advantage	Main limitation
Liability protection	Shareholders are generally protected from the company’s debts and losses because the company is a separate legal entity.	Limited liability does not mean the business is risk-free. Directors may still be responsible for governance failures, late filings, or breaches of duty.
Legal identity	The company can own property, enter contracts, sue, and be sued in its own name.	The company must be maintained as a separate legal entity, with proper records, filings, and governance.
Business credibility	A Pte. Ltd. often looks more credible to banks, investors, suppliers, and enterprise clients than a sole proprietorship.	Higher credibility comes with stronger compliance expectations and more formal administration.
Fundraising and ownership	A company can issue shares, add shareholders, and structure ownership more clearly. ACRA provides guidance on share capital and share types for companies⁽²⁾ .	Share transfers, new share issues, and ownership changes must be properly documented and filed where required.
Continuity	A company can continue even when shareholders, directors, or management change.	Closing the company requires formal strike-off or winding-up procedures, rather than simply stopping operations.
Tax framework	Singapore companies are taxed at a flat 17% corporate income tax rate. For YA 2026, IRAS grants a CIT Rebate of 50% of tax payable, capped at SG$40,000, with a minimum CIT Rebate Cash Grant of SG$2,000 for active companies that employ at least one local employee in 2025⁽³⁾ .	Tax benefits are not automatic for every company. Eligibility depends on IRAS rules, income position, and qualifying conditions. The Start-Up Tax Exemption is not available to property development or investment holding companies.
Compliance workload	A company gives stronger protection and structure than simpler business forms.	It has more yearly paperwork, including annual returns, registers, tax filing, and possible AGM-related obligations.
Key officers	A company has a formal management structure through directors and a company secretary.	A company secretary must be appointed within six months, and an auditor must be appointed within three months unless exempt.
Audit requirements	Some private companies may qualify for audit exemption if they meet the small-company criteria.	Companies that do not qualify must appoint an auditor and prepare for audit obligations.
Cost	Official company registration is transparent, and ACRA sets clear statutory fees.	Actual first-year cost can be higher once company secretary, registered office, nominee director, accounting, and tax support are included.
Suitability	Best for startups, SMEs, foreign founders, subsidiaries, holding structures, and businesses planning to scale.	May be too formal for a very small, low-risk solo activity that does not need investors, employees, or major contracts.

How to set up a limited liability company in Singapore

ACRA is the government agency responsible for company registration in Singapore. Registration is done online through Bizfile. The first step is deciding which type of limited liability company to incorporate; the rest is preparation, filing, and post-incorporation compliance.

Requirements to register a Singapore LLC

You need to prepare some documents containing the following information:

A proposed business name for your company
A brief description of the business activities, mapped to the correct SSIC code
Details of the company’s registered address in Singapore — this must be a physical local address accessible during normal business hours. P.O. boxes are not accepted.
Particulars of shareholders and other related papers
Particulars of directors*
Company’s constitution, which can be an available model or a customized one.
Paid-up capital of at least SG$1, which may be denominated in SGD or a major foreign currency and increased at any time after incorporation.

It is regulated in Section 145 of the Companies Act that every company must have at least one director who is:

An ordinary resident in Singapore
18 years old or above
Of full legal capacity.

A foreigner can own 100% of the shares in a Singapore company. Foreign ownership is not restricted for most business activities. What cannot be waived is the resident director requirement, which is why many foreign founders engage a nominee director service at incorporation.

The process of registering an LLC Singapore

Incorporating a limited liability company (LLC) in Singapore is not simply a filing exercise, it is a structured procedure overseen by the Accounting and Corporate Regulatory Authority (ACRA). Each stage requires accuracy and compliance with statutory obligations.

The process can be broken down into six main steps:

The process of registering an LLC company Singapore — The process of registering an LLC in Singapore

Step 1: Reserve the company name

The registration journey begins with reserving a company name through ACRA’s BizFile+ portal.

The name must be unique and must not conflict with existing entities, trademarks, or contain prohibited expressions. If the proposed name relates to a regulated industry, such as banking, finance, or education, it will require additional approval from the relevant authority.

Once approved, the name is reserved for 120 days, allowing sufficient time for the incorporation to proceed.

Step 2: Appoint a filing agent if required

Foreign entrepreneurs cannot directly file incorporation documents on BizFile+ as the system requires a SingPass login.

For this reason, appointing a licensed Corporate Service Provider (CSP), commonly referred to as a filing agent, is a mandatory step. The filing agent will prepare statutory declarations, verify documents, and ensure that the submission to ACRA complies with all legal requirements.

Many local entrepreneurs also prefer engaging a CSP for accuracy and efficiency.

Step 3: Prepare the company constitution

Every company must be governed by a constitution. This single document replaced the separate Memorandum and Articles of Association after the Companies (Amendment) Act 2014, so “articles of association” is now a legacy term. This document sets out the rules on how the company is managed, the responsibilities of directors, and the rights of shareholders.

It typically includes clauses on the company’s name, registered office, liability of members, share capital, and subscriber details. Business owners can adopt ACRA’s Model Constitution or draft a customized version tailored to their operations.

Step 4: Submit the articles of association for filing

Once the constitution and supporting documents are ready, they must be filed with ACRA via BizFile+, usually through the appointed filing agent. This stage is commonly associated with the submission of the Memorandum and Articles of Association Singapore, which formalises the governance framework of the company.

The filing package includes shareholder and director details, particulars of the company secretary, and the registered office address. A filing fee of SG$300 applies.

If all information is accurate, ACRA usually approves the incorporation within the same working day. Where the application must be referred to another authority — for example a regulated industry such as banking, finance, or education — processing can take between 14 and 60 days.

Step 5: Consider a shareholders’ agreement

Although not legally required, drafting an shareholders’ agreement is strongly encouraged. This document complements the constitution by detailing how shareholders intend to run the business in practice. It clarifies matters such as voting rights, dividend distribution, decision-making processes, and dispute resolution.

Having an operating agreement in place minimises misunderstandings and is especially valuable when there are multiple shareholders or external investors.

Step 6: Maintain your LLC in good standing

After incorporation, ACRA issues an electronic Certificate of Incorporation together with your Unique Entity Number (UEN) and a link to download your business profile. The confirmation is sent to you by email.

From that point, ongoing obligations begin:

Appoint a company secretary within six months of incorporation.
Appoint an auditor within three months, unless the company qualifies for audit exemption.
Decide your financial year-end.
Set up and maintain statutory registers, including the Register of Registrable Controllers (RORC), unless exempt.
Hold annual general meetings where required.
File annual returns with ACRA and corporate tax returns with IRAS.

Registration timeline at a glance

Stage	Typical time	Official fee
Name application and approval	Within 15 minutes if no referral is needed	SG$15
Name reservation validity	120 days, no extension	Included above
Incorporation filing and approval	Usually same working day; 14 to 60 days if referred to another authority	SG$300
Appoint company secretary	Within 6 months of incorporation	No ACRA fee
Appoint auditor (unless exempt)	Within 3 months of incorporation	No ACRA fee
First annual return	Per your financial year-end and AGM cycle	SG$60

Singapore LLC cost

Singapore has long been regarded as a premier destination for global investors thanks to its pro-business policies, political stability, and competitive tax regime. While these advantages make the city-state attractive for incorporating a limited liability company (LLC), entrepreneurs must also understand the costs involved.

From statutory filing fees to ongoing compliance expenses, a clear picture of the financial requirements is essential for effective planning.

Statutory ACRA Fees

Statutory fees are the official charges payable to ACRA at different stages of incorporation and company administration. They are fixed, transparent, and apply to all companies regardless of size or structure. The table below summarises the most relevant ACRA fees:

Transaction	Fee (SG$)
Name application	15
Company incorporation (registration)	300
Annual return filing	60
Conversion within company types	40
Lodgment of Notice of Error (NOE)	60
Registration of particulars relating to charges	60
Revision of defective financial statements	200
Registration for amalgamation	400 (plus SG$300 if a new company is created)
Application for extension of time to file accounts or hold AGM	200

Fees verified against ACRA’s published schedule on 21 July 2026

Additional Setup and Compliance Costs

In practice, companies also incur expenses outside of statutory fees to remain compliant and operational:

Registered office address: SG$250 – 500 per year if using a service provider.
Company secretary: SG$300 – 1,500 annually for professional secretarial services, mandatory within six months of incorporation.
Nominee director: Often required by foreign-owned companies, with costs ranging from SG$1,500 – 5,000 per year.
Corporate bank account: No direct government charge, but banks usually require a minimum deposit of around SG$1,000.
Corporate Service Provider (CSP) packages: Incorporation and compliance support from SG$500 upwards depending on scope of services.

Estimated First-Year Costs

When statutory fees and compliance expenses are combined, the total cost of incorporation is higher than the SG$315 minimum government charge.

Local founders: Around SG$1,500 – 2,500 in the first year.
Foreign founders: Around SG$3,000 – 5,000, accounting for nominee director and full-service support.

The statutory fees imposed by ACRA form the foundation of Singapore’s transparent and low-cost incorporation regime. However, real operating expenses also include professional and compliance costs that vary depending on whether the founders are local or foreign.

By budgeting for both categories, entrepreneurs can ensure that their Singapore LLC is not only incorporated smoothly but also maintained in good standing for the long term.

Compliance requirements for a limited liability company in Singapore

Once incorporated, a Singapore LLC must appoint key officers and meet recurring filing obligations. Missing these deadlines carries financial penalties and, in serious cases, director disqualification.

After the registration, your company will need to appoint the following officers:

Company secretary: a secretary must be appointed within 6 months from the incorporation date and this position must not be left vacant for more than 6 months. The secretary must be a natural person ordinarily resident in Singapore and cannot be the company’s sole director.
Auditors: every company must appoint an auditor within 3 months from the incorporation date unless it is exempted from audit requirements.

Furthermore, Singapore LLC must comply with other requirements regulated by different government agencies, such as:

Choosing financial year-end
Maintaining statutory registers
Setting up and maintaining the Register of Registrable Controllers (RORC), unless exempt
Holding Annual General Meetings for companies limited by shares
Filing annual returns with ACRA annually
Filing tax returns with IRAS annually
Registering for GST once taxable turnover exceeds SG$1 million in a 12-month period, or when you expect it to

Start your business right with BBCIncorp’s incorporation services

Launching a business in Singapore requires more than just meeting statutory requirements, it calls for accuracy, efficiency, and reliable local expertise. This is where BBCIncorp’s incorporation services provide a significant advantage. By partnering with a trusted service provider, entrepreneurs can streamline the entire process, reduce risks of non-compliance, and focus on building their core business.

At BBCIncorp, our company incorporation services in Singapore are designed to support both local and foreign founders at every stage:

Company name selection: Guidance to ensure your desired name meets ACRA’s regulations and is reserved without delay.
Document preparation: Assistance in compiling the constitution, shareholder and director details, and other statutory records.
Application submission: Filing through BizFile+ on your behalf to guarantee accuracy and timely approval.
Post-incorporation compliance: Ongoing support with annual returns, corporate secretarial services, and tax filing to maintain good standing.
Bank account opening support: Connections with leading financial institutions to simplify the setup of your corporate banking.

By choosing BBCIncorp, you ensure that your Singapore LLC is not only incorporated correctly but also positioned for long-term success in one of the world’s most competitive business environments.

Conclusion

An LLC Singapore is best understood as a limited liability company concept, with the private limited company, or Pte. Ltd., being the most common practical structure for founders and foreign investors. It offers limited liability, separate legal identity, business continuity, and access to Singapore’s corporate tax framework.

Before registering, founders should confirm the company type, local director arrangement, shareholder structure, company constitution, official ACRA fees, and ongoing compliance obligations. For a guided setup, BBCIncorp can help you register and maintain a compliant Singapore company from incorporation to post-registration compliance.

Should you have any further questions on this topic or how to start your own business in Singapore, please contact BBCIncorp via service@bbcincorp.com for timely support!

References:

(1) ACRA – Choosing a business structure: https://www.acra.gov.sg/register/business/choosing-business-structure/
(2) ACRA – Deciding on share capital & share types: https://www.acra.gov.sg/register/business/registering-different-business-structures/local-company/deciding-on-share-capital-share-types/
(3) IRAS – Corporate Income Tax Rate, Rebates & Tax Exemption Schemes: https://www.iras.gov.sg/taxes/corporate-income-tax/basics-of-corporate-income-tax/corporate-income-tax-rate-rebates-and-tax-exemption-schemes

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between LLC vs Pte LTD Singapore?

In Singapore, the term limited liability company (LLC) broadly refers to a business structure that provides its owners with limited liability protection.

The most common type of LLC in Singapore is the Private Limited Company (Pte. Ltd.), which is a specific form of LLC incorporated under the Companies Act. In practice, when people refer to an “LLC” in Singapore, they usually mean a Pte Ltd.

The distinction is mainly in terminology, LLC describes the legal concept, while Pte Ltd is the standard registration form under ACRA.

What are the characteristics of an LLC in Singapore?

A Singapore LLC is recognised as a separate legal entity, meaning it can own assets, incur liabilities, and enter into contracts in its own name. Shareholders enjoy limited liability, restricted to the amount they have invested in shares. The company enjoys perpetual succession, meaning its existence is not affected by changes in ownership or management.

Furthermore, profits are taxed at the corporate rate rather than at the shareholder level, and companies must comply with statutory obligations such as filing annual returns and appointing at least one local resident director.

Why should you set up a company in Singapore?

Singapore is consistently ranked as one of the most business-friendly jurisdictions in the world. Companies are taxed at a flat 17% corporate rate, and for YA 2026 IRAS grants a CIT Rebate of 50% of tax payable capped at SG$40,000, with a minimum cash grant of SG$2,000 for qualifying active companies.

Singapore also offers an extensive network of double taxation agreements, exemptions on certain foreign-sourced income, a transparent regulatory framework, and political stability.

Can a foreigner own 100% of a Singapore LLC?

Yes. A foreigner can own all the shares in a Singapore private limited company, and there is no general restriction on foreign shareholding for most business activities. What cannot be waived is the requirement for at least one director who is ordinarily resident in Singapore.

Foreigners living overseas must also engage a licensed Corporate Service Provider to reserve the name and file the incorporation, because Bizfile requires a SingPass login.

Does a Singapore LLC need a company secretary?

Yes. A Singapore company must appoint a company secretary within six months after incorporation, and the position cannot stay vacant for more than six months.

ACRA requires the company secretary to be a natural person who is ordinarily resident in Singapore, and the sole director of a company cannot also act as its company secretary.

Is my Singapore company exempt from audit?

Not automatically. Your private company is exempt from statutory audit only if it qualifies as a small company, meaning it meets at least two of three criteria — annual revenue of SG$10 million or less, total assets of SG$10 million or less, and 50 or fewer full-time employees — for each of the two immediately preceding financial years.

Newly incorporated companies are assessed on the current financial year. Group companies must also meet the criteria on a consolidated basis. Exempt private company status alone does not grant audit exemption.

How long does it take to register an LLC in Singapore?

Name approval is usually granted within 15 minutes of payment, and incorporation is typically approved on the same working day once the filing is complete and accurate.

The timeline extends to between 14 and 60 days when the application must be referred to another authority, which happens for regulated activities such as banking, finance, education, or medical services.

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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