Singapore Limited Liability Company Registration: Cost & Requirements

Singapore is renowned for its stable economy, pro-business government policies, and international connectivity, making it a top destination for entrepreneurs and startups. Registering a limited liability company (LLC) in Singapore is straightforward, transparent, and offers direct access to both regional and global markets. Many business owners choose to establish an LLC here to benefit from asset protection, tax efficiency, and a premium business reputation. In this guide, we will explain how to complete an LLC registration in Singapore and detail the requirements and costs involved for a Singapore LLC registration.

What is a Limited Liability Company in Singapore?

A limited liability company (LLC) in Singapore is a business entity that has a distinct legal identity, separate from its owners and shareholders. It allows for personal asset protection. If the business faces debt or legal action, shareholders are only liable up to the amount they invested. Limited Liability Companies in Singapore enjoy perpetual succession, so the company can continue its existence even if shareholders or directors change, ensuring business continuity.

Types of Limited Liability Company in Singapore

Before incorporating a limited liability company in Singapore, it's important to know the different forms available:

1. Private Limited Company

It is the most common type for Singapore LLC registration. It is privately held by up to 50 shareholders, who can be individuals or corporate entities.

2. Public Limited Company

It allows the sale of shares to the public and can have more than 50 shareholders. This structure is suited for larger businesses aiming to raise substantial capital from the public.

3. Public Company Limited by Guarantee

It operates on a membership basis rather than shareholders and is often used for non-profit organisations and charities. Members serve as guarantors instead of owning shares, and the company focuses on promoting a common interest without the intention of profit.

Key Benefits of Establishing an LLC in Singapore

LLC registration in Singapore comes with various advantages that support business growth, build corporate reputation, and offer financial security. Additionally, the following are more advantages of establishing a limited liability company in Singapore.

Limited Liability Protection

Shareholders’ personal assets are fully protected. The liability is restricted to the amount invested in the company. This means that if the company faces debts or lawsuits, personal assets such as homes or savings are not at risk.

Separate Legal Entity

An LLC can own property, enter into contracts, and sue or be sued in its own name. This separation ensures that business operations remain stable and uninterrupted, even if there are changes among the shareholders or directors.

Attractive Tax Regime

According to IRAS, Singapore offers a low corporate income tax rate of 17%. Newly formed limited liability companies in Singapore can enjoy partial tax exemptions on the first SGD 200,000 of chargeable income, and shareholder dividends are not taxed at the personal level.

In the 2025 assessment year, the Singapore government also provides all taxable companies with a Corporate Income Tax (CIT) rebate of up to 50%, capped at SGD 40,000; if the company employs at least one local employee in 2024, it can also receive a cash grant of at least SGD 2,000, with a combined maximum rebate of SGD 40,000. This measure aims to support business cash flow.

Flexibility in Fundraising

Limited liability companies in Singapore are also allowed to issue new shares and attract local or foreign investors to support business growth. Up to 50 shareholders are allowed, and these may be individuals or other entities.

International Reputation

A Singapore-registered LLC is recognised globally, making it easier to open bank accounts, do business with overseas partners, and expand internationally.

In short, building a limited liability company in Singapore provides legal protection, efficiencies, and credibility critical to long-term success.

Take your knowledge further: Singapore Trademark Registration and Renewal: Costs and Process

Key Requirements for LLC Registration in Singapore

Understanding the essential requirements for LLC registration in Singapore will help you prepare for a smooth incorporation process.

At Least One Local Director

In accordance with Section 145 of the Companies Act, every Singapore LLC must have at least one director who is a Singapore resident (citizen, permanent resident, or holder of an eligible Employment Pass/EntrePass/Dependant Pass), aged 18 or above. Proof of identity is required.

Minimum Paid-up Capital

ACRA also mentions that the minimum paid-up capital required is only 1 Singapore dollar, making it highly accessible to startups.

Registered Local Address

To meet the LLC Singapore requirements, companies must have a physical registered address, which can be a commercial location or one provided by a service provider. This address must be accessible to the public for communication and for receiving legal documents. Failure to maintain a proper address can result in fines of up to SGD 5,000. Any address change must be reported to ACRA within 14 days.

Company Secretary and Auditor Appointments

ACRA points out that a qualified company secretary who is a Singapore resident must be appointed within six months of incorporation to ensure compliance. A sole director cannot also be the secretary, and failing to appoint a secretary may result in a fine of up to SGD 1,000. Unless exempted, companies must also appoint an auditor within 3 months of incorporation.

Additional Requirements for LLC in Singapore

The following requirements for LLC in Singapore are designed to promote transparency, good governance, and accountability for all corporate entities in Singapore.

• Maintain statutory registers: Any change in shareholders, directors, or secretary must be updated via Bizdfile.
• Choose a financial year end (FYE): FYE is used for annual report and tax filing purposes.
• Annual General Meeting (AGM): Required unless exempt; must be held and annual returns filed with ACRA within seven months after FYE.
• GST Registration: Mandatory if annual taxable turnover exceeds SGD 1 million.

Registraion Process for an LLC in Singapore

LLC registration in Singapore involves several key steps, and each step ensures your company is set up legally and meets all compliance standards.

Step 1: Name Reservation

The first step of LLC registration in Singapore is to submit your proposed company name online via Singapore’s ACRA BizFile+ system. Upon approval, the name is reserved for 60 days. After approval, you must complete the incorporation process within 120 days.

Step 2: Document Submission to ACRA

Prepare all required documents: directors’ and shareholders’ details, registered office address, company secretary details, and the company constitution. Submit via the BizFile+ portal.

Step 3: Issuance of Certificate of Incorporation

Upon approval and payment, ACRA typically issues the e-Certificate of Incorporation and the Unique Entity Number (UEN) within one to two working days. Company name and UEN is used in commercial letters, invoices, and trades between governments.

Breakdown of Singapore LLC Registration Costs

Understanding the costs involved in LLC registration helps you budget and plan for your company's launch and ongoing compliance.

Government Fees

• Name Application Fee: SGD 15
• Company Registration Fee: SGD 300

These fees cover the basic costs of Singapore LLC registration. If you require a special or memorable UEN, additional fees apply, costing either SGD 1,000 or SGD 3,000, depending on the tier selected. During operations, an annual return filing fee of SGD 60 is payable. For a breakdown of all company-related fees, consult ACRA’s official fee guide.

Professional Service Fees (Optional)

Many businesses prefer to use corporate service providers for a streamlined process, which adds to the costs of establishing an LLC in Singapore. Typical fees include:

• Company incorporation service: SGD 100-500 (market average around SGD 200)
• Company secretary service: SGD 300-1,000/year (average about SGD 500)
• Nominee local director: SGD 2,000-5,000/year (varies by provider; deposit may be required)
• Registered address service: SGD 100-500/year (simple address service about SGD 250)
• Additional services (bank account opening, work pass application, etc.) priced separately

On average, fully supported Singapore LLC costs range between SGD 3,000 and SGD 4,000, excluding nominee director deposits or bank charges.

Want to know more? We've got you covered: How to Start a Business in Singapore 2025: Step-by-Step Registration Guide

Start Your Singapore Business Journey with Confidence

Registering a Singapore LLC is a smart move for entrepreneurs looking to protect assets, optimise taxes, and build a globally credible business. To successfully navigate Singapore LLC registration while meeting all requirements, partnering with TEC ensures a seamless and efficient setup process. TEC offers premium office solutions tailored to support your newly registered company, including Private Offices, which are ideal for startups or growing businesses seeking privacy, flexibility, and professional work environments. These fully furnished Private Offices provide a prestigious business address, essential for your limited liability company in Singapore and compliance needs.

Start your journey today with TEC, the trusted partner for entrepreneurs establishing a limited liability company in Singapore with confidence, convenience, and the right office solutions in place for success.

*All costs and prices mentioned will be subject to change due to government policies.