Can Foreigners Register a Company in Singapore?
Good news, international founders:
Singapore welcomes foreign entrepreneurs with open arms.
But there are key rules you need to know if you’re a non-resident looking to set up shop here. Let’s break it down.
1️⃣ Yes, You Can Fully Own a Singapore Company
✅ 100% foreign ownership is allowed.
You don’t need a local partner or investor to set up a private limited company (Pte Ltd). This makes Singapore one of the most foreigner-friendly places to do business in Asia.
💡 Tip: Foreigners often use Singapore as a regional HQ to tap into ASEAN markets.
2️⃣ You Need a Local Director
By law, every company in Singapore must have:
At least one director who is “ordinarily resident” in Singapore.
This can be a Singapore Citizen, PR, or an Employment Pass (EP) holder.
If you don’t have a local director, you’ll need to appoint a nominee director (someone local who fulfills the legal requirement but doesn’t interfere in daily operations).
3️⃣ You Don’t Need to Be in Singapore to Incorporate
You can incorporate your company remotely:
We handle all filings and documentation online.
Identity verification can be done digitally.
Physical presence is only needed later if you want to open certain bank accounts.
4️⃣ Visas and Work Passes
Owning a company doesn’t automatically give you the right to work in Singapore.
To run your business locally, you’ll need:
An Employment Pass (EP) or
An EntrePass (for certain startup founders)
We can help guide you through this process.
5️⃣ What About Bank Accounts?
Some local banks require you to visit in person for due diligence. Others (especially digital banks) may allow full remote onboarding.
We help match you to the right banking partner.
Why Work With Paperwork.sg?
We specialise in:
✅ Incorporating foreign-owned companies
✅ Providing compliant nominee director services
✅ Helping with visas, licensing, and tax matters
Let’s make your Singapore expansion smooth.