top of page

How to start a business in Singapore from Malaysia?


How to start a business in Singapore from Malaysia? | Bestar
How to start a business in Singapore from Malaysia? | Bestar

How to start a business in Singapore from Malaysia?


Setting up a business in Singapore as a Malaysian resident involves a few key steps:


1. Company Requirements:


  • Local Director: Singapore law mandates at least one resident director for your company. This director can be you, but it requires obtaining a work pass. Alternatively, you can appoint a nominee director (fulfills residency requirement but has limited power).

  • Company Secretary: Every Singapore company needs a qualified company secretary to handle administrative and reporting duties.

  • Registered Address: Your business needs a physical address in Singapore to register.


2. Registration Process:


  • Corporate Services Provider: Using a local corporate services provider is recommended for navigating the registration process and complying with regulations.


3. Additional Considerations:


  • Minimum Capital: The minimum paid-up capital for a Singapore company is S$1.

  • Work Visas: If you plan to work in Singapore, you'll need the appropriate work visa based on your role and company activity.


Setting Up a Business in Singapore from Malaysia


Here's a breakdown of setting up a business in Singapore from Malaysia:


Requirements:


  • Local Director: Singapore requires at least one director residing in Singapore. You can be the director if you obtain a work visa, or appoint a nominee director (local resident with limited control).

  • Company Secretary: Every company needs a qualified professional to handle administrative duties and filings.

  • Registered Address: Your business needs a physical address in Singapore for registration.


Registration Process:


  • Corporate Services Provider: Due to regulations, using a local company registration agent is recommended. They can handle the process and ensure compliance.

  • Documents and Fees: Prepare necessary documents like company constitution, director/shareholder information, and business plan. Fees include registration fees and service charges from the provider.


Additional Considerations:


  • Minimum Capital: The minimum paid-up capital is S$1 (symbolic), but you may need more for operational purposes.

  • Work Visas: If you plan to work in Singapore, research the appropriate work visa based on your role and company activity.


Costs:


  • Service fees: Expect S$3,000-S$5,000 for the first year, covering registration, government fees, and agent services (including nominee director and address if needed).


Next Steps:


  1. Research your industry and business concept in Singapore.

  2. Choose a business structure (sole proprietorship, partnership, etc.).

  3. Select a company name and check availability.

  4. Find a reliable corporate services provider in Singapore.

  5. Gather required documents and fulfill registration procedures.

  6. Apply for work visas if needed for yourself or employees.


Remember, this is a general overview. It's wise to consult with a professional for specific guidance on your business situation.


In-Depth Guide to Setting Up a Business in Singapore from Malaysia


Expanding your business to Singapore can be exciting, offering access to a global market and a pro-business environment. Here's a detailed guide to navigate the process:


Pre-Registration Steps:


  1. Business Research: Thoroughly research your industry and target market in Singapore. Analyze competitor landscape, regulations, and potential challenges specific to your business.

  2. Business Structure: Choose the most suitable business structure. Common options for Malaysians include:

  • Sole Proprietorship: Simplest option, but owner carries all liabilities.

  • Partnership: Two or more individuals share ownership and responsibilities.

  • Limited Liability Company (LLC): Most popular choice, separates personal assets from business liabilities.

  1. Company Name Check: Ensure your desired company name is available through ACRA (Accounting and Corporate Regulatory Authority) online portal.

  2. Corporate Services Provider: Engage a reputable Singapore-based corporate services provider. They can handle registration, legal compliance, and ongoing support.


Registration Process:


  1. Gather Documents:  Prepare the necessary documents as per ACRA requirements. These may include:

  • Singaporean Identification Card (for nominee director, if applicable)

  • Director(s) and shareholder(s) information (passport, residential address proof)

  • Company constitution

  • Business plan

  • Registered address lease agreement

  1. Online Registration:  Your corporate services provider will guide you through ACRA's online portal (BizFile+) for company registration. The process involves:

  • Filling out online forms with company details, directors, shareholders, and registered address.

  • Paying registration fees (around S$160)

  1. Approval and Issuance of Certificate of Incorporation:  ACRA typically processes applications within 1-2 business days. Upon approval, you'll receive a Certificate of Incorporation, marking your company's official registration.


Post-Registration Steps:


  1. Open Corporate Bank Account: Choose a Singaporean bank and open a corporate bank account for business transactions.

  2. Apply for Business Licenses and Permits: Depending on your industry, you may need additional licenses or permits to operate legally. Research requirements based on your business activity with relevant government agencies.

  3. Work Visa Applications: If you plan to work in Singapore or require employees to be physically present, apply for the appropriate work visas through the Ministry of Manpower (MOM).

  4. Compulsory Registrations: Register for Goods and Services Tax (GST) if your annual turnover exceeds S$1 million. Register with the Central Provident Fund (CPF) if employing staff in Singapore.


Additional Considerations:


  • Minimum Paid-Up Capital: The minimum paid-up capital is S$1, but some industries might have higher requirements. Consider the actual capital needed for operations.

  • Corporate Secretary: Appoint a qualified company secretary to ensure adherence to corporate governance regulations and handle filing requirements. Your corporate services provider might offer this service.

  • Accounting and Tax Compliance: Establish a system for bookkeeping and tax compliance. Consider hiring a Singaporean accountant familiar with local regulations.


Remember: This guide serves as a general framework. It's crucial to consult with a professional for personalized advice based on your specific business needs and industry regulations.


Resources:



How Bestar MY can Help

How to start a business in Singapore from Malaysia?


Bestar MY can be a valuable asset in your journey to setting up a business in Singapore from Malaysia, due to our familiarity with the nuances of this process. Here's how we can potentially assist you:


Understanding Pros and Cons:


  • Bestar MY can help you weigh the advantages and disadvantages of registering a subsidiary company in Singapore based on your specific business goals. This might involve factors like tax implications, access to regional markets, and regulatory environment.


Guiding the Registration Process:


  • We can handle the entire registration process ourselves (due to Singaporean residency requirements), Bestar MY's experience can be helpful in navigating the steps. We can:

  • Explain the different stages of registration and the documents required.

  • Advise on choosing a suitable business structure for your needs (sole proprietorship, LLC, etc.).

  • Connect you with their reliable corporate services provider in Singapore who can manage the official registration with ACRA.


Additional Support:


  • Bestar MY offers services like:

  • Opening a corporate bank account in Singapore through their partnership with CIMB (subject to eligibility).

  • General tax and accounting advice.


Overall Benefit:


By leveraging Bestar MY's knowledge and connections, you can streamline the process and gain valuable insights specific to Malaysian entrepreneurs venturing into Singapore.


By combining Bestar MY's guidance with a qualified Singaporean corporate services provider, you can increase your chances of a smooth and successful business setup in Singapore.




70 views0 comments

Recent Posts

See All

Comments


bottom of page