Do I need to check business licences before incorporating a Singapore company?

Yes, some industries such as finance, education and real estate need approval or a licence from the relevant government authority separately from ACRA registration, so you should check before incorporating a Singapore company.

Approval of ACRA registration does not give you an industry licence. If another authority needs to review the company name or business activity, it may take up to 15 additional business days.

• Finance, investment and digital asset businesses: first check whether the business requires an MAS licence.
• Education businesses: names such as "academy" or "college" are subject to approval by the Ministry of Education (MOE).
• Real estate agency, construction, food and beverage, etc.: follow the registration or licensing requirements of the authority responsible for each industry.

If you need an industry-specific check, you can contact us through the Lee Kim Alliance Contact page.

As of November 2026, source: ACRA