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Incorporation

How long does it take to register a company in Singapore?

The process of registering a company in Singapore typically takes about 1-3 days, depending on the type of business and the complexity of the registration process. With all the required incorporation documents in hand, a commonly purposed business can be incorporated within 1 day.

What are the requirements for foreigners to set up a new business in Singapore?

There are a few key requirements that foreigners should be aware of when setting up a new business in Singapore:

  1. Business registration: All businesses in Singapore must be registered with the Accounting and Corporate Regulatory Authority (ACRA). This includes registering the business name and obtaining a Business License, as well as obtaining any necessary permits or approvals from relevant government agencies.

  2. Immigration: If you are a foreigner planning to set up a business in Singapore, you will need to obtain a valid work pass or visa in order to reside and work in the country. There are several types of work passes available, including the EntrePass, which is specifically designed for entrepreneurs.

  3. Business location: You will need to decide where to locate your business in Singapore. There are several options available, including setting up a physical office, renting a coworking space, or operating a home-based business.

  4. Capital: You will need to have sufficient capital to fund the operations of your business. This may include upfront costs such as rent, salaries, and equipment, as well as ongoing expenses such as utilities and supplies.

Overall, setting up a business in Singapore can be a complex process, and it is important to do your research and seek the advice of professionals, Please speak to our expert to help you about the registration.

How to open a corporate bank account in Singapore?

To open a corporate bank account in Singapore, you will need to follow these steps:

To open a corporate bank account in Singapore, you will need to follow these steps:

 

  1. Choose a bank: Research and compare different banks to find one that meets your needs and offers the types of accounts and services you are looking for.
  1. Gather required documents: You will need to provide a range of documents to open a corporate bank account in Singapore, including identification and proof of address for all directors and shareholders, as well as proof of incorporation and business registration.
  1. Meet with a bank representative: Schedule an appointment with a bank representative to discuss your business needs and complete the account opening process. You may be required to provide additional information or documents during this meeting.
  1. Sign the account opening documents: Review and sign the account opening documents provided by the bank. These may include the account opening application, terms and conditions, and other legal documents.
  1. Deposit funds: Once your account is open, you will need to make an initial deposit to fund your account. This may be a minimum amount required by the bank or a larger sum, depending on your business needs.

It is a good idea to research and compare different banks to find one that meets your needs and offers competitive fees and terms. It is also a good idea to consult with a financial advisor or accountant to ensure that you understand the fees and terms of the account and that it is the right fit for your business.

 

What are the attractive tax incentives and rates for Singapore Company?

Singapore offers various tax incentives and benefits for companies, such as tax exemptions, reliefs, and deductions. Some of the key tax incentives and rates for Singapore-registered companies include:

  • Corporate income tax rate: The corporate income tax rate in Singapore is 17%, which is among the lowest in the world.

  • Tax exemptions and reliefs: Singapore offers various tax exemptions and reliefs for companies, including exemptions for new start-up companies, tax deductions for research and development expenses, and tax exemptions for certain types of income, such as offshore income and foreign-sourced income.

  • Tax treaties: Singapore has entered into tax treaties with more than 80 countries, allowing for the avoidance of double taxation and providing for more favorable tax rates on certain types of income.

  • Pioneer certificate: Singapore offers pioneer certificates to companies engaged in certain approved activities, such as research and development, new technology, and new products. Companies with a pioneer certificate can enjoy tax exemptions of up to 100% for a period of five years.

  • Development and expansion incentive: Singapore offers a development and expansion incentive (DEI) to companies that invest in new or expanded activities, such as the construction of new facilities or the acquisition of new equipment. Companies that qualify for the DEI can enjoy tax exemptions of up to 100% for a period of five years.

Overall, the attractive tax incentives and rates in Singapore make it an attractive destination for companies looking to expand or establish their operations in Singapore. You can find more information on the tax incentives and rates available in Singapore on the Inland Revenue Authority of Singapore (IRAS) website.

What is the tax exemptions for new start-up companies in Singapore?

In Singapore, new start-up companies may be eligible for tax exemptions under the Start-up Tax Exemption (SUTE) scheme. This scheme allows qualifying companies to enjoy a partial tax exemption on the first SGD 100,000 of taxable income for each of the first three consecutive years of assessment. This means that a qualifying company can enjoy a tax exemption of up to SGD 30,000 per year.

 

To qualify for the SUTE scheme, a company must meet the following requirements:

  • The company must be a tax resident of Singapore.
  • The company must be incorporated in Singapore on or after 1 January 2016.
  • The company must not be a subsidiary of another company.
  • The company must not be a trust, partnership, or sole proprietorship.
  • The company must not be engaged in certain prohibited activities, such as gambling or the provision of financial services.

 

If a company qualifies for the SUTE scheme, it can apply for the tax exemption by submitting a completed application form and the required supporting documents to the Inland Revenue Authority of Singapore (IRAS). The application must be submitted within two years from the date of incorporation of the company.

What is the effective tax rate for new start-up companies in Singapore?

The effective tax rate for new start-up companies in Singapore depends on various factors, such as the company's income and tax obligations, and the type and amount of tax incentives and benefits that the company is eligible for.

 

Under the Startup Tax Exemption Scheme, eligible start-up companies can enjoy a full tax exemption on the first SGD 100,000 of normal chargeable income for each of the first three consecutive Years of Assessment (YAs). This means that if a start-up company has an annual taxable income of SGD 100,000 or less, it will not be required to pay any corporate income tax for the first three YAs.

 

However, if the start-up company has an annual taxable income that exceeds SGD 100,000, it will be required to pay corporate income tax on the excess amount. The corporate income tax rate in Singapore is 17%, so the effective tax rate for the excess amount will be 17%.

 

It is important to note that the Startup Tax Exemption Scheme is only one of the many tax incentives and benefits available in Singapore. Depending on the specific circumstances of the start-up company, it may be eligible for other tax exemptions, reliefs, and deductions, which can further reduce its effective tax rate. You can find more information on the tax incentives and rates available in Singapore on the Inland Revenue Authority of Singapore (IRAS) website.

What are the main terms of constitution for a Singapore Company?

The main terms of a company's constitution are typically outlined in the company's Memorandum and Articles of Association. These documents outline the company's purpose, its powers and objectives, and the rules and regulations governing its operations. The Memorandum of Association typically includes the company's name, its registered office address, and the names of its members (also known as shareholders or subscribers). The Articles of Association, on the other hand, contain the company's bylaws and internal rules, including details on how the company will be managed and governed. These documents are important for establishing the legal framework of the company and should be carefully drafted to ensure compliance with relevant laws and regulations.

What is Singapore company Constitution?

The Singapore company constitution refers to the legal framework that defines the powers, rights, and responsibilities of a company registered in Singapore. This framework is typically outlined in the company's Memorandum and Articles of Association, which are the main documents that govern the company's operations and management. The Memorandum of Association includes the company's name, registered office address, and the names of its members (shareholders or subscribers), while the Articles of Association contain the company's bylaws and internal rules. Together, these documents form the company's constitution and provide the basis for its operations and decision-making processes.

What are the duties for Singapore Nominee Director?

A nominee director is a person who is appointed to act as a director of a company on behalf of another person or entity. In Singapore, nominee directors are often used by foreign investors who want to register a company in Singapore but are not able to meet the requirement of having at least one resident director.

What if I appoint my friend or a family member as a local director?

If you are a foreign entrepreneur interested in setting up a business in Singapore, you may appoint a local or resident director to serve as the director of your company. A local or resident director is a Singaporean citizen or permanent resident who is authorized to act as a director of a company in Singapore.

 

There are a few key considerations to keep in mind if you appoint a friend or family member as a local director:

 

  1. Legal responsibilities: As a director of a company, your friend or family member will have legal responsibilities and duties, such as ensuring that the company complies with relevant laws and regulations and acting in the best interests of the company. It is important that they understand these responsibilities and are willing and able to fulfill them.
  1. Conflicts of interest: If your friend or family member has a personal relationship with you, they may have conflicts of interest that could affect their decision-making as a director. It is important to discuss any potential conflicts of interest with them and put measures in place to manage them.
  1. Professional experience: Your friend or family member should have the necessary knowledge, skills, and experience to fulfill the duties of a director. It may be a good idea to provide them with training or support to ensure that they are able to effectively fulfill their role.

 

Overall, it is important to carefully consider the suitability of a friend or family member as a local director, and to ensure that they are willing and able to fulfill the legal responsibilities and duties associated with this role.

What are the duties for Singapore Company Director?

As a director of a company registered in Singapore, you have various duties and responsibilities that you are required to fulfil. Some of the key duties of a Singapore company director include:

 

  • Acting in the best interests of the company and its shareholders
  • Ensuring that the company complies with all applicable laws and regulations
  • Protecting the assets of the company and using them for the benefit of the company
  • Making decisions and taking actions that are in the best interests of the company
  • Maintaining accurate and up-to-date records of the company's activities
  • Reporting to the company's shareholders on the company's financial performance and other matters of interest
  • Ensuring that the company's financial statements are accurate and reflect the true financial position of the company
  • Attending and participating in meetings of the company's board of directors.

How to immigrate to Singapore?

To immigrate to Singapore, you will need to apply for and obtain a valid immigration pass or visa. The type of pass or visa that you will need will depend on your specific circumstances and the reason for your immigration to Singapore.

 

Some common types of passes and visas that you may be eligible for include:

 

  • Work visa: If you have a job offer from a Singaporean employer, you may be eligible for a work visa, which will allow you to work and live in Singapore for a specified period of time.
  • Entrepreneur visa: If you plan to start a business in Singapore, you may be eligible for an entrepreneur visa, which will allow you to live and work in Singapore while you establish and operate your business.
  • Student visa: If you are a student and have been accepted to study at a Singaporean institution, you may be eligible for a student visa, which will allow you to study and live in Singapore for the duration of your course of study.
  • Dependent's pass: If you are the spouse or child of a Singaporean citizen or permanent resident, you may be eligible for a dependent's pass, which will allow you to live and work in Singapore as a dependent of the sponsoring individual.

 

To apply for an immigration pass or visa, you will need to submit a completed application form and any required supporting documents to the Immigration and Checkpoints Authority (ICA) of Singapore. The processing time for immigration applications can vary, so it is important to check with the ICA for the latest information and to submit your application well in advance of your intended travel date.

How do I get Employment Pass (EP) in Singapore?

To get an Employment Pass (EP) in Singapore, you will need to have a job offer from a Singaporean employer. Your employer will need to submit an application on your behalf to the Ministry of Manpower (MOM), along with the necessary supporting documents. These documents may include your resume, educational qualifications, and proof of your work experience.

 

The MOM will review your application and assess your eligibility for an EP based on various criteria, including your qualifications, work experience, salary, and the nature of the job offer. If your application is successful, you will be issued an EP, which will allow you to work and live in Singapore for a specified period of time.

 

To apply for an EP, you will need to meet the following requirements:

  • You must have a valid passport from a recognized country.
  • You must have a job offer from a Singaporean employer.
  • Your job offer must meet the minimum salary requirements for an EP, which are currently SGD 4,500 per month for new applicants and SGD 3,600 per month for renewals.
  • Your job offer must be in a skill level that is considered acceptable for an EP.
  • You must have the necessary qualifications and work experience for the job offer.

 

You can find more information and the latest requirements for an Employment Pass on the MOM website. It is important to carefully review these requirements and to submit a complete and accurate application to avoid delays or rejection of your application.

Can EP holder register company in Singapore?

Yes! Employment Passes (EPs) can register a company in Singapore and own 100% of the shares.

 

If you hold an Employment Pass and want to register a company in Singapore, you will need to hire a local or resident director to serve as the director of the company. This is because the Employment Pass is intended for foreign professionals who are employed by a Singapore-based company, and does not allow the holder to engage in business activities on their own.

In order to incorporate a Singapore Company, Do I have to rent office in Singapore?

No, you do not need to rent an office in Singapore in order to incorporate a company in Singapore. The requirement to have a physical office in Singapore applies only to companies that are registered as a branch of a foreign company, and not to companies that are incorporated as a separate legal entity in Singapore.

 

When you incorporate a company in Singapore, you will need to provide a local registered address for the company. This can be the residential or commercial address of one of the company's directors, or it can be a rented or leased office space. However, the registered address is only used for administrative and legal purposes, and is not required to be a physical office that the company uses for its business operations.

 

As a Singapore-registered company, you are free to operate your business from any location within Singapore, or from any other location outside of Singapore. You can choose to rent or lease an office space for your company, or you can operate your business from a home office, a coworking space, or any other suitable location.

 

Overall, the requirement to have a physical office in Singapore applies only to certain types of companies, and does not apply to companies that are incorporated as a separate legal entity in Singapore.

Compliance

Do I have to appoint corporate secretary for Singaproe company?

In Singapore, a company is required to appoint at least one company secretary within six months of its incorporation. The company secretary must be a natural person who is at least 18 years old and must not be an undischarged bankrupt.

The company secretary is responsible for ensuring that the company complies with the requirements of the Companies Act and other relevant laws and regulations. This includes maintaining proper records and documents, convening and conducting meetings of the directors and shareholders, and submitting required documents and returns to the Accounting and Corporate Regulatory Authority (ACRA).

It is important to note that the company secretary does not need to be a shareholder or director of the company, but they must be able to discharge their duties with due care, diligence, and impartiality. If the company does not have at least one company secretary, the directors of the company may be held personally liable for any breaches of the Companies Act.

What is company secretarial services?

A company secretary acts as the backbone of every company when it comes to keeping up with legal compliance and proper use in Singapore. With their extensive knowledge about the internal governance of the company and the associated regulations in Singapore, Company secretaries services are often relied upon for advice and solutions for example if there is an internal conflict between stakeholders & directors, a corporate secretary will often step in to mediate. Company secretary has the important job to ensure that the company is compliant.

 

As it is compulsory that every company must appoint a corporate secretary (according to the Singaporean law), the role may also be involved in responsibilities and obligations such as taxes, accounting records. Talk to us to find out more! We are happy to assist you with any queries from general corporate secretarial queries to transferring your existing company secretary to us!

Can I transfer my corporate secretary to RAC?

If you wish to switch to RAC’s company secretary, we’ve made the process fast and easy. Here is what you should know before leaving your current service provider and moving to RAC:

First, you need to get in touch with us to carry out a series of KYC (Know Your Customer) processes. After the approval, we will require you to notify your current service provider of the determination statement for records.

RAC offers not only secretarial services for companies but also a registered address for your company. If you want to read more about how to change your company secretary, click here.

We are happy to assist you with any queries from general corporate secretarial queries to transferring your existing company secretary to us!

What is the role of a Corporate Secretary in Singapore?

The Company Secretary must ensure that the company and the directors comply with the rules from the Constitution of the Company. Directors need these individuals to advise them in their statutory obligations. Here is a list of the main functions/tasks of a corporate secretary in Singapore:

 

As a corporate secretary, RAC’s function is to organize meetings for the company (these include board meetings and general meetings) and to file annual returns if required. As corporate secretary, RAC ensures that the company meets the deadlines. For example, we remind our clients when they need to hold their annual general meeting (AGM), usually within the next 6 months after the reminder.

 

With regard to shareholder duties, the secretary must supervise the company through the creation and issuing of shares process. They will be the mediator between shareholders and directors. It must also deal with other matters affecting shareholdings and queries from shareholders.

 

A corporate secretary is also in charge of disseminating financial statements to shareholders, who will then be well-equipped to take part in decision-making at the company’s annual general meeting (AGM).

 

A corporate secretary in Singapore is responsible for preparing accounts – like the firm’s annual accounts and ensuring that the Company Law provisions prepare the accounts.

 

It is part of their duty to ensure that adequate insurance coverage is in place for the whole company (directors, staff, office…) and needs to take care of ensuring the safe custody and proper use of the company seal.

 

The corporate secretary must also update the company’s details and particulars on ACRA. They should prepare documents in advance for relating these changes to directors and /or shareholders for their approval. This includes a change of company name, a change of registered office address, a change of share capital and the appointment/termination of the corporation’s officers.

Why do I need a corporate secretary ?

A corporate secretary, or company secretary, is an officer responsible for looking after the administrative work of a company efficiently. He or she is tasked with keeping the operations by the statutory requirements, regulations and laws in Singapore. It is also the corporate secretary’s responsibility to manage the company’s compliance and act as a mediator between shareholders and directors.

In Singapore, a corporate secretary shares responsibility for certain legal obligations with the company’s directors. If the Secretary finds a breach of the law, he must inform the persons concerned so that the matter can be resolved as soon as possible.

At RAC we focus on assisting company entrepreneurs in meeting the mandatory requirements in Singapore by being their appointed corporate secretary and providing corporate secretarial services. These include specific services such as company directors/shareholder appointments, resignation/board meetings, compliance duties and the filing of annual returns. This allows entrepreneurs to fully focus on growing their business, without having to worry about other matters.

 

A corporate secretary is a key role that allows entrepreneurs to develop their business in Singapore quickly while ensuring compliance from a corporate governance point of view. If you would like to know more about a corporate secretary in Singapore, do contact us.

Accounting

What is outsourced bookkeeping?

Outsourced bookkeeping is a service where a team of professionals handles the financial record-keeping and accounting tasks for a business. This allows the business owner to focus on other aspects of the business, such as operations and growth.

What tasks does an outsourced bookkeeper handle?

An outsourced bookkeeper typically handles tasks such as invoicing, tracking expenses, reconciling bank statements, and preparing financial reports. They may also assist with payroll, tax preparation, and other financial tasks as needed.

How does outsourced bookkeeping work?

Outsourced bookkeeping typically involves the business owner providing the bookkeeping team with access to financial documents, such as receipts and invoices. The bookkeeping team then organizes and enters this information into the business's accounting system, providing regular updates and reports as needed.

What are the benefits of outsourced bookkeeping?

Outsourced bookkeeping can provide a number of benefits to a business, including cost savings, increased efficiency, and access to specialized expertise. It can also free up time for the business owner to focus on other aspects of the business.

What are the ongoing compliance requirements for a company in Singapore?

As a company registered in Singapore, you will need to comply with various ongoing requirements, such as filing annual returns and financial statements, holding annual general meetings, and maintaining accurate records of the company's activities. You will also need to renew any licenses or permits required for your business, and comply with tax laws and regulations.

How do I choose the right outsourced bookkeeping service for my business?

When selecting an outsourced bookkeeping service, it's important to consider factors such as the service's pricing, experience and specialization, and the level of support and communication offered. It's also a good idea to read reviews and ask for references to get a sense of the service's quality and reliability.

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