Overseas founders
Launching a business in Singapore while still based abroad.
Singapore setup for overseas founders
Incorporation for Foreigners
Set up a Singapore company from overseas, with help understanding the local requirements and organising each step.
About this service
Setting up a Singapore company from overseas
Foreigners can own 100 percent of a Singapore private limited company. The main difference from a local setup is the director requirement: every company needs at least one director who is ordinarily resident in Singapore.
Overseas founders usually meet this by appointing a nominee director, or by relocating on an eligible work pass and acting as the resident director themselves.
Who it's for
Is this you?
Expanding businesses
Opening a Singapore company to serve the region.
Founders planning to relocate
Setting up first, then moving to Singapore.
What we handle
What working with us covers.
Every request is a little different, so we shape the work around your situation.
- 01Initial review of the proposed setup
- 02Guidance on local incorporation requirements
- 03Coordination of the company registration work
- 04Related services you may also need, such as a nominee director
Before you start
What you'll need.
Have these ready and we can move quickly. Don't worry if something is missing; we'll tell you what to look for.
- Passport copies of directors and shareholders
- Proof of residential address for each person
- Your proposed company name and business activity
- Details of any corporate shareholder, if a company will own shares
- Your plan for the resident director requirement
How it works
From first message to done.
- 1
Plan the structure
We go through ownership, the resident director and the business activity with you.
- 2
Arrange a resident director
If you are not based in Singapore, a nominee director can be arranged where suitable.
- 3
Register the company
We prepare the documents and file the incorporation with ACRA.
- 4
Get ready to operate
We point you to the next steps, such as the company secretary, bookkeeping and tax registrations.
Questions
Incorporation for Foreigners: common questions.
Can a foreigner own a Singapore company outright?
Yes. There is no local shareholding requirement, so a foreign individual or company can hold all the shares.
Do I need to be in Singapore to register?
No. The company can be set up while you are overseas, provided the resident director requirement is met.
How long will I need a nominee director?
Usually until another eligible resident director is appointed, for example once a founder relocates to Singapore on a work pass.
Talk to us about Incorporation for Foreigners.
One message is enough to start. We reply with what applies to you and what we need.
