Singapore

Why Singapore

• Base for Southeast AsiaRegional headquarters, banks and investors sit here, so one office can cover sales across the region.
• Clear rules, quick setupMost companies are incorporated online through ACRA shortly after payment, and the tax system is simple to read.
• Public money for startupsStartup SG offers grants, loans and co-investment, including S$1 billion set aside for deep tech in Budget 2026.

Source: EDB Singapore · Enterprise Singapore, Startup SG

Priority sectors

Source: EDB Singapore

How companies enter

1. Step 1Soft landingA first stay with booked meetings with clients, partners and investors who cover the region from Singapore.
2. Step 2PilotA paid pilot with a Singapore company or public agency, often still billed from home.
3. Step 3Local companyA private limited company (Pte Ltd) registered online with ACRA, with at least one locally resident director.

Founders can apply to the Ministry of Manpower for the EntrePass, issued for up to one year at first and renewed for two years at a time after that.

Source: Ministry of Manpower · Startup SG

Costs to plan for

• Company registration with ACRA (S$300 fee) and a locally resident director
• Company secretary, accounting and annual filings
• Office space, with a registered address open to the public on business days
• Salaries, housing and work passes for foreign staff

Source: ACRA, registering a local company · IRAS, corporate tax rates

Who can help