Do You Really Need a Corporate Secretary in Singapore?
Let’s get this straight:
If you run a private limited company (Pte Ltd) in Singapore, you’re legally required to appoint a corporate secretary.
It’s not optional, it’s not a “nice-to-have,” and skipping it can land you in regulatory trouble. But what does a corporate secretary actually do—and why does it matter?
Let’s break it down.
What the Law Says
Under the Companies Act, every company in Singapore must appoint a corporate secretary:
Within 6 months of incorporation.
The secretary must be ordinarily resident in Singapore.
The role can’t be vacant for more than 6 months.
If you fail to comply, the company and its directors can face fines or penalties.
What Does a Corporate Secretary Actually Do?
Think of your corporate secretary as the legal and compliance backbone of your company. They:
✅ Ensure you meet statutory filing deadlines
✅ Maintain key registers and records (e.g., shareholder lists)
✅ Prepare and lodge Annual Returns
✅ Advise on corporate governance matters
✅ Handle board resolutions and minutes
It’s the secretary’s job to ensure the company stays compliant with the law—so you can focus on growing the business.
Can I Be My Own Corporate Secretary?
If you’re the sole director, no—the same person cannot serve as both director and secretary.
If your company has multiple directors, technically one of them can act as secretary, but:
They must have sufficient experience and knowledge.
You risk missing deadlines or filings if they’re stretched thin.
Most startups and SMEs outsource this role to professionals or corporate service providers (like us 😎).
What Happens If I Skip Appointing One?
You risk:
Fines and penalties from ACRA
Compromising future fundraising or partnerships (because you won’t have the right records or filings)
Legal exposure for directors if something goes wrong
It’s a small role with big consequences if ignored.
Why We Offer Corporate Secretary Service for Free in Year 1
At Paperwork.sg, we believe:
✅ Starting a company should be affordable
✅ Compliance shouldn’t be your headache
✅ You should only pay for services when you grow, not just for ticking boxes
That’s why we include your first-year corporate secretary service for free when you incorporate with us.
👉 Let us handle your compliance, so you can handle your business