Singapore Company Incorporation FAQs

Frequently Asked Questions about Singapore Company Formation

TOP FAQs

Subsidiary Company

What is the difference between a Singapore Subsidiary Company and a Branch Office?

A subsidiary company is usually preferred for the following reasons:

  • A branch is an extension of its head office and is not a separate entity.
  • A branch is required to appoint at least 2 agents who are residents of in Singapore.
  • A branch is treated as a non-resident entity and is therefore not eligible for tax exemptions or incentives that a subsidiary company (which is considered a resident entity) may be entitled to.
  • A branch is required to file its head office accounts as well as its audited accounts.

What is the difference between a Singapore Company and a Singapore Subsidiary Company?

The key difference lies in the shareholding of the company. A Singapore subsidiary company is a private limited company with corporate shareholders. A subsidiary company is required to file audited accounts and may enjoy some tax incentives.

Does a Singapore subsidiary require a registered address in Singapore?

Yes, all Singapore companies and subsidiaries need to have a registered address in Singapore.

How many directors does a subsidiary company require?

The company must have at least one director who is a Singapore resident.

What is the timeline for the incorporation of a subsidiary company?

Once all the requisite documentation is received in order, it normally takes 2 working days to incorporate the subsidiary company.

What documents are required to incorporate the subsidiary company?

Typically the following documentation will be required:

  • Details of the proposed subsidiary name, share capital, shareholder(s), director(s) etc.
  • Copy of Singapore ID (where applicable) and passport of each director and individual shareholder
  • Certificate of incorporation of the parent company and company profile reflecting registered address and directors of the parent company.

* Any documents that are not in English must be officially translated into English.

Does the Singapore subsidiary need to appoint any other officers?

Yes, the subsidiary will need to appoint a company secretary.

Can a subsidiary company also have individual shareholders in addition to the corporate shareholder?

Yes, it is possible to have both corporate and individual shareholders.