Singapore offers a well-regarded environment for business, combining efficiency with relatively low corporate barriers. This overview details the typical costs associated with establishing and maintaining a standard private limited company in Singapore, based on the latest data available for 2025.
Company Incorporation Costs in Singapore (2025)
Setting up a Private Limited Company is the preferred option for most international investors and local business owners. Below is a summary table of common government fees and typical professional service charges in 2025:
| Cost Component | Amount (SGD) | Amount (USD, 1 SGD = 0.74 USD) |
|---|---|---|
| ACRA company name application fee | $15 | $11 |
| ACRA company registration fee | $300 | $222 |
| Professional service provider fees (average for incorporation, including preparation of documents, company secretary for first year, registered address, etc.) | $1,300 | $962 |
| Minimum paid-up capital | $1 | $0.74 |
| Total Average Creation Cost | $1,650 | $1,222 |
The average amount of SGD $1,650 (approx. USD $1,222 at 1 SGD = 0.74 USD) covers the basics of setup, including both statutory government fees and typical professional administration charges for a turnkey incorporation package. Importantly, the minimum paid-up capital remains symbolic at SGD $1, affirming the low barrier for launch in Singapore.
Ongoing Annual Maintenance Costs
It is essential to plan for ongoing compliance and service fees, which vary depending on company structure and whether certain services are required. In 2025, total annual maintenance typically ranges between SGD $800 and $2,500 (USD $592–$1,850). The following table provides a breakdown of the most common ongoing charges:
| Cost Component | Amount (SGD) | Amount (USD, 1 SGD = 0.74 USD) |
|---|---|---|
| Company secretary annual fee (mandatory) | $300 | $222 |
| Registered office address annual fee | $120 | $88 |
| Annual filing fee to ACRA | $60 | $44 |
| Accounting and tax filing services (average, small companies) | $320 | $237 |
| Audit fees (only if company meets audit threshold) | Typically not required for small companies | – |
| Nominee director service (if needed, mainly for foreigners) | $1,200 | $888 |
| Typical Annual Total (min–max) | $800–$2,500 | $592–$1,850 |
The cost range reflects whether or not a nominee director is required and the complexity of compliance work. Small, locally managed companies with straightforward accounts experience costs on the lower end.
Explanation of Key Fees and Considerations
- ACRA (Accounting and Corporate Regulatory Authority) fees are government-mandated and apply to all new setups and annual filings.
- Company secretary is mandatory in Singapore; professional firms usually bundle this for efficiency.
- Registered address is required; virtual offices are permissible if properly registered.
- Accounting, tax filing, and audit: Most small companies are exempt from audits, but regulatory compliance for annual returns and tax submissions remains necessary.
- Nominee director is generally only required if the company has no resident director—typically a requirement for foreign owners not relocating to Singapore.
Pro Tips for Managing Your Singapore Company Costs Efficiently
- Compare bundled incorporation packages versus separate service providers to ensure you’re not overpaying for redundant services.
- Confirm your business status regarding audit exemption to avoid unnecessary audit-related expenses.
- If you are a foreign business owner, assess if you really need a nominee director service, as this is often the largest single recurring cost.
- Monitor filing deadlines closely—late submissions to ACRA may incur additional penalties.
- Utilize digital corporate service providers where possible; they tend to offer more competitive pricing and transparent renewal terms.
Authoritative Sources
Singapore remains highly attractive for both resident and international business owners, thanks to its transparent and efficient corporate environment. Typical creation costs are predictable and comparatively low, with annual maintenance scaling to the specific structure and requirements of your company. Keep in mind the largest cost variables—especially for international shareholders—so you can budget accordingly and maintain full compliance with Singapore’s straightforward regulatory requirements.