Foreign entities that are keen to explore opportunities in the region may wish to set up a Representative Office (RO) in Singapore.
Singapore has established itself as a reputable financial and regional trading centre. It is the world’s busiest transshipment port and a top location for investments in the Asia Pacific region. Factors such as its strategic location, competitive workforce, pro-business environment and forward-looking economic policies positions Singapore as a natural gateway to Asia and the region.
An RO allows you to evaluate the viability of doing business in Singapore and the region before deciding to set up a permanent establishment.
Foreign entities from the manufacturing, international trading, wholesale, trade and trade-related business sectors that are keen on exploring the viability of doing business in Singapore, or are interested in using Singapore as a launch pad into the Asia Pacific, may wish to set-up a Representative Office (RO). By setting up an RO, it allows a foreign entity to assess the business environment in Singapore before deciding to set up a permanent establishment.
An approved RO of a foreign commercial entity may operate in Singapore for a validity period of one year only from its commencement date. An extension of RO will only be granted on a case-by-case basis, and is subjected to approval for up to a maximum of three years. ROs which decide to continue their presence in Singapore thereafter should register their operations with the Accounting & Corporate Regulatory Authority (ACRA) of Singapore.
Foreign entities from the following sectors may approach the respective bodies for more information on RO setup in Singapore:
All other foreign entities looking to register and incorporate a local branch office may approach the Accounting & Corporate Regulatory Authority (ACRA).
Click here for more information on setting up Representative Offices in Singapore.
All new applications of foreign commercial entitles must fulfill the following criteria:
All new applications must be accompanied by the following documents:
A processing fee of S$200 per year is applicable. The processing fee is non-refundable for unsuccessful or withdrawn applications.
Payment can be made via any of the following modes:
Submit your online application form here.
All ROs must comply with the Terms and Conditions. Please click here for details.