Do I need to check the Singapore company name before incorporation?

Yes. Before incorporation, you must apply to ACRA for the company name and have it approved. An approved name is reserved for only 120 days, so you must complete the registration of the Singapore company within that period.

A name that is the same as or similar to a name already registered cannot be used. Most names are approved right after payment, but it may take up to 3 business days if ACRA review is required, and up to 15 business days if review by another agency is required.

• If the name uses education or finance related words: Education related words such as "academy" and "college", or finance related names, require approval from the relevant authority and may be rejected.

You can first check availability with the Lee Kim Alliance company name search tool.

As of November 2026, source: ACRA