Asia Expansion Desk

Singapore · Regional expansion

Three ways a foreign business can enter Singapore

Singapore’s corporate regulator lists a local subsidiary, a foreign company branch and a representative office among the options. Each has a different purpose and registration path.

Sources checked

Choice of legal structureSingapore business entry routes
  1. 01
    Local subsidiary

    Conduct ongoing business in Singapore · Separate locally incorporated company Source 1

  2. 02
    Foreign company branch

    Carry on the parent company’s business · Extension of the foreign company Source 1

  3. 03
    Representative office

    Explore the market before operating commercially · Temporary presence with limited activities Source 1

Each route answers a different business need. Check which one fits before choosing the filing.

Source 1 Source 2

Latest data stories

Start here

Practical records for companies expanding through Singapore

Singapore business entry routes

The comparison summarises ACRA’s guidance for foreign businesses. Check the relevant agency for the current filing details and eligibility.

3 records
Source
Local subsidiaryConduct ongoing business in SingaporeSeparate locally incorporated companySource 1
Foreign company branchCarry on the parent company’s businessExtension of the foreign companySource 1
Representative officeExplore the market before operating commerciallyTemporary presence with limited activitiesSource 1