Registration for a Singapore Representative Office

Keen to explore the bountiful opportunities in the region offered by Singapore but unsure about setting up a permanent office?

A Representative Office allows you to assess the viability of doing business in Singapore and the region, before committing to any large-scale investments.

A Representative Office is a temporary facility with no statutory obligations to file financial accounts and tax returns with the Accounting and Corporate Regulatory Authority (ACRA) and the Inland Revenue Authority of Singapore (IRAS). It is therefore the ideal entry mode for a foreign entity to evaluate the business environment in Singapore before deciding to set up a permanent establishment.

As the Representative Office is intended as a stepping stone to a full-fledged operation, it can only engage in market research and feasibility studies such as:

• Gathering market information, competitive intelligence and customer data

• Conducting market research on product demand, customers’ requirements and price expectations

• Collating information on regulatory requirements related to establishing a permanent business entity in Singapore

• Cultivating trade contacts and managing product enquiries

• Participating in trade shows and exhibitions

The Representative Office should not provide services nor render any direct or indirect revenue generation activities on behalf of its parent company.

As the Representative Office is purely temporary, it can only operate in Singapore for a maximum of three years from the date of its inception. During this period, the Representative Office must also be renewed annually upon evaluation by Enterprise Singapore.

Converting representative office into a company

When you are ready to establish a more permanent presence in Singapore, the Representative Office can be converted into a subsidiary company or a branch office.

Requirements to Register a Representative Office

Qualification for foreign parent companies

• The foreign parent company must have a sales turnover in excess of US$250,000

• The foreign parent company must have been established for three years or more

• The Representative Office must adhere to the maximum headcount of four employees

Documentation

• Copy of the parent company’s Certificate of Incorporation or Business Registration Certificate (where applicable) in English or an official English translation

• Copy of the parent company’s latest audited accounts

Documents required for Employment Pass

You need these documents when submitting an Employment Pass application for regional representatives of overseas companies:

• A copy of the approval letter from Enterprise Singapore for setting up the representative office in Singapore.

• A letter from the representative’s office headquarters stating:

  • The purpose of the application.

  • The duration of the candidate’s assignment.

  • A guarantee for the maintenance and repatriation of the candidate.

Application Fee

• Non-refundable processing fee of S$200 per year

Registration for a Singapore Representative Office | Bestar

How Bestar can Assist with Singapore Representative Office Registration

Registration for a Singapore Representative Office

Bestar is a corporate services provider specializing in foreign company registration and setup in Singapore. We offer comprehensive support for businesses looking to establish a representative office in the country.   

1. Bestar | Singapore Company Registration | Corporate Secretarial | Bookkeeping | corporate secretarial services | 23 New Industrial Road, Singapore

www.bestar-sg.com

Key Services Offered by Bestar:

• Guidance on Representative Office Structure: Bestar can help you understand the requirements and limitations of a representative office in Singapore, ensuring it aligns with your business objectives.

• Document Preparation: We assist in gathering and preparing the necessary documentation, including legal documents from your parent company, details of appointed representatives, and office address information.

• Registration Process Management: Bestar handles the entire registration process with the Enterprise Singapore, including online submissions and follow-ups.

• Compliance Adherence: We provide guidance on ongoing compliance requirements, such as annual renewal, reporting, and tax obligations.

• Additional Support Services: Bestar can also offer services like office space rental, employment pass assistance, and accounting and tax advisory, making the overall setup process smoother.

Benefits of Using Bestar:

• Expertise: Our team has in-depth knowledge of Singapore's regulatory environment and registration procedures.

• Efficiency: We streamline the registration process, saving you time and effort.

• Compliance Assurance: Bestar helps ensure your representative office adheres to all legal and regulatory requirements.

• Comprehensive Support: We offer additional services to support your business operations beyond registration.   

In essence, Bestar acts as a reliable partner, providing expert guidance and handling the complexities of setting up a representative office in Singapore.

Consult with Bestar for the most accurate and up-to-date information regarding our offerings and fees.

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