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
- 01Local subsidiary
Conduct ongoing business in Singapore · Separate locally incorporated company Source 1
- 02Foreign company branch
Carry on the parent company’s business · Extension of the foreign company Source 1
- 03Representative 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.
Choose the structure before paying fees
ACRA separates a local company from a branch of a foreign company. The branch application asks for information on the parent company and its registration in its home country. Source 1 Source 2
Budget for a branch application
ACRA lists SGD 300 for a one-year branch registration. It says more complex applications can take up to 15 working days. An application sent to a referral authority can take longer. Source 2
What changes when you choose a branch
A branch remains part of the foreign company. The corporate regulator asks for the parent’s details and lays out steps for registering the branch. A local company has a separate legal identity and its own registration path. Source 1 Source 2
Match the route to the work
A representative office is aimed at exploring a market. If the planned work involves trading or ongoing local operations, read the agency’s restrictions and compare the other routes before choosing. Source 1