Singapore offers several business structures to choose from. Whether you’re starting on your own or with partners, we’ll help you select the setup that aligns with your business plans and your longer-term immigration goals – so your company structure supports both how you operate today and the path you’re building for the future.
Who Is This For?
For foreign business owners / entrepreneurs / professionals who wish to start a business in Singapore.
Step 1 : Identifying the right business structure for you
- Private Limited Company (Pte. Ltd.) – Most common
- Limited Liability Partnership (LLP) – A hybrid structure that offers the operational flexibility of a partnership, while providing limited liability protection similar to a company. Typically for professionals in a shared field.
- Limited Partnership – A business structure with at least one general partner who has unlimited liability, and one or more limited partners whose liability is limited to the amount they invest.
- Sole Proprietorship – A business owned by a single individual, where the owner and the business are legally the same entity – meaning the owner assumes unlimited personal liability.
- Company Limited by Guarantee – E.g., non-profit activities, such as charitable organisations and associations.
- Representative Office – An option for foreign companies that want to test the Singapore market and assess business viability- without committing to full incorporation upfront.
- Branch Office / Foreign Branch – Operates as an extension of the foreign parent company, enabling it to conduct business activities in Singapore. Because the parent company remains fully liable for the branch’s obligations and actions, this structure should be considered carefully.
Each business structure comes with its own pros and cons, depending on your business objectives, risk appetite, and personal preferences. Working with an experienced company formation team can help you evaluate the options clearly, especially if you’re also planning ahead for work pass, PR, or longer-term relocation considerations.
Step 2 : Next Course of Action
We’ll guide you through:
- Selecting and reserving your company name
- Setting up your directors and shareholders
- Preparing your company constitution
- Appointing your company secretary
- Securing a registered office address
- Deciding on your share capital structure
- Collecting the required consent-to-act and non-disqualification declarations
At TIP, we’ll guide you through the setup process end-to-end and help you choose a structure that supports both your business strategy and your immigration goals, so you can move forward with confidence.
Visa Pathway
Employment Pass (EP), Entrepreneur Pass (EntrePass), Overseas Networks and Expertise Pass (ONE Pass)
Why choose this?
The most direct route for a foreigner to set up a company in Singapore, commonly used for stable, operating businesses.