A Step-by-Step Guide to Registering a Branch Office in Singapore: Eligibility, Documents, and Procedures

A Step-by-Step Guide to Registering a Branch Office in Singapore: Eligibility, Documents, and Procedures

Registering a branch office in Singapore can be a complex and time-consuming process, but with the right guidance, it can be made easier. In this article, we will provide a step-by-step guide on how to register a branch office in Singapore, including the eligibility criteria, required documents, and procedures.

Eligibility Criteria

To register a branch office in Singapore, the parent company must meet the following eligibility criteria:

• The parent company must be a non-Singaporean company that is at least one year old.
• The parent company must have a paid-up capital of at least SGD 1 million.
• The parent company must have a satisfactory business track record and reputation.

Required Documents

The following documents are required to register a branch office in Singapore:

• A copy of the parent company’s Certificate of Incorporation.
• A copy of the parent company’s Memorandum and Articles of Association.
• A copy of the parent company’s financial statements for the past three years.
• A copy of the parent company’s business registration certificate.
• A copy of the parent company’s identification documents (e.g. passport, ID card, etc.).

Procedure for Registering a Branch Office

1. Step 1: Obtain a Business Registration Number

   The first step is to obtain a business registration number from the Singapore Business Registration System (ACRA). The application can be made online or through the ACRA office.

2. Step 2: Submit Documents

   Once the business registration number is obtained, the parent company must submit the required documents to the ACRA.

3. Step 3: Pay Registration Fees

   The parent company must pay the registration fees, which are SGD 300 for the registration of a local company and SGD 200 for the registration of a foreign company.

4. Step 4: Receive Certificate of Registration

   Once the registration is complete, the ACRA will issue a Certificate of Registration to the parent company.

Additional Requirements

In addition to the above procedures, the parent company must also comply with the following requirements:

• Register for Goods and Services Tax (GST) if the company’s annual turnover exceeds SGD 1 million.
• Register for Employment Passes for foreign employees if the company has more than five employees.

Conclusion

In conclusion, registering a branch office in Singapore requires careful planning and preparation. By understanding the eligibility criteria, required documents, and procedures, companies can ensure a smooth and successful registration process. It is also important to comply with the additional requirements, such as registering for GST and employment passes, to ensure the branch office is fully compliant with Singaporean regulations.

FAQs

Q: What is the minimum paid-up capital required for a parent company to register a branch office in Singapore?

A: SGD 1 million.

Q: What is the registration fee for a local company in Singapore?

A: SGD 300.

Q: What is the registration fee for a foreign company in Singapore?

A: SGD 200.

Q: What is the minimum number of employees required for a parent company to register for employment passes in Singapore?

A: Five.

Q: What is the annual turnover threshold for a company to register for Goods and Services Tax (GST) in Singapore?

A: SGD 1 million.