Starting a Business in Singapore

The laws relating to the registration of a business can be found in the Business Registration Act, Cap 32. Any person who wants to start a business in Singapore must first register with the Registrar of Companies and Businesses. The definition of "business" is every form of trade, commerce, craftsmanship, calling, profession and any activity carried on for the purpose of gain.


Definition of a Business
A "business" includes every form of trade, commerce, craftsmanship, calling, profession or any activity carried on for the purpose of gain except for the businesses specified in the First Schedule.


A business may be a sole-propietorship (1 owner) or a partnership (2 to 20 owners)


Setting Up a Business in Singapore
An applicant has to submit 2 forms:
Application for Approval of Name (Form A )
Application to Register a Business (Form B )


A foreigner intending to register a business must apply for an Employment Pass from the Employment Pass Department, Ministry of Manpower


Place of Business
Every firm must have a place of business. The use of private residential property or HDB flats to set up a Technopreneur Home Office must be supported by the Economic Development Board and/or URA/HDB.


Appointment of Manager
A local manager must be appointed if his appointment is compulsory.


Approvals from Other Agencies
The nature of the actual business activity may be subject to the control and regulation by other government authorities and you cannot begin to operate unless you have the necessary approval or licence

http://www.rcb.gov.sg/