If you’re looking to register a business in Singapore, the Accounting and Corporate Regulatory Authority (ACRA) is the governing body that oversees company incorporation and compliance. It operates through BizFile+, an online filing system that enables businesses to complete registration, submit statutory filings, and update company details conveniently.
Whether you’re a local entrepreneur or a foreign investor, understanding how to use ACRA’s BizFile+ is crucial for ensuring a smooth business registration process. This guide will walk you through the role of ACRA, the significance of BizFile+, and the step-by-step process to fill out your ACRA BizFile efficiently.
By the end of this article, you’ll know how to register your business in Singapore, submit required documents, understand compliance requirements, and leverage BizFile+ for company filings—all without unnecessary delays. Let’s get started!
Role of the ACRA
As previously stated, the ACRA serves as both a Registrar and a regulatory body for corporate services.
This authority is in charge of registering and monitoring all firms, corporate service providers, and qualified accountants. The ACRA also advises methods to improve the business climate and assists in the creation of new goods and services.
It was formed on April 1, 2004, by the Accounting and Corporate Regulatory Act. The ACRA effectively merged the previous Registrar of Companies and Businesses (RCB) and Public Accountants’ Board (PAB).
Other duties of the ACRA:
- Enforcing the Companies Act, the Limited Liability Partnerships Act, the Accounting and Corporate Regulatory Authority Act, the Variable Capital Companies Act, and other related Acts and their Amendments.
- Keeping and updating corporate records and business information.
- Enables businesses to conduct business in Singapore by giving them a UEN (Unique Entity Number).
- Providing inputs and recommendations to Singapore’s lawmakers in building a practical system that makes life easier for businesses.
Understanding the ACRA BizFile
The BizFile is ACRA’s online portal for capturing information for business registration, filing, and reporting. Introduced in 2004, it was replaced in 2016 by a younger, more powerful system called BizFile+.
The newer portal made processes streamlined and quicker and could handle much larger volumes of users. It is this system that makes it possible to register and set up reporting remotely.
The BizFile+ is based on the XBRL (XML-based Business Reporting Language). This means that financial and business analysis tools are able to glean more information from the data you (the business user) feed into the e-forms that form part of the system.
How to Register Your Business Using ACRA BizFile+ in Singapore?
Registering your business in Singapore through ACRA’s BizFile+ is a streamlined and efficient process. The platform allows business owners to complete company registration online with minimal hassle. Below is a step-by-step guide to ensure a smooth registration process.
1. Log in to BizFile+
To start, log in to BizFile+ using your SingPass (for individuals) or CorpPass (for businesses). If you are a foreigner, you may need to engage a registered filing agent (e.g., a corporate service provider or law firm) to complete the registration on your behalf.
2. Name Application & Approval
- Submit a name application through BizFile+.
- Pay a S$15 fee for name reservation.
- Ensure your chosen business name complies with ACRA’s naming guidelines.
Name approval is usually instant but may take up to 14–60 days if additional approvals from other government agencies are required.
3. Fill in Business Details & Key Personnel Information
Once your business name is approved, proceed with filling out the registration form:
- Business Structure: Choose the type of business entity (Private Limited Company, LLP, Sole Proprietorship, etc.).
- Company Officers: Appoint directors, a company secretary, a CEO, or a managing director as required by law.
- Key Information: Provide details such as shareholders, registered address, and business activities.
4. Payment of Registration Fees
After submitting the details, you’ll need to pay the registration fee:
- S$100 for a standard business registration.
- S$30 for business renewal.
You can pay using credit/debit cards, PayPal, Apple Pay, or Google Pay.
5. Processing Time & Approval
For sole proprietorships and partnerships, registration is typically approved within 15 minutes after payment.
If additional approvals from regulatory agencies are required (e.g., Ministry of Education for private schools), processing may take 14 to 60 days.
Once approved, your business will receive a Unique Entity Number (UEN), allowing you to operate legally in Singapore.
What is SingPass?
The Singapore Personal Access Pass, or SingPass, is a digital login system that stores and automatically identifies you when you interact with Singapore government institutions. This online password allows you to do transactions with the majority of government entities online with one click.
What is the CorpPass?
The CorpPass is a virtual identity for authorizing transactions between you (a business, society, or certain commercial organizations) and the government of Singapore.
A CorpPass authorizes these associations to enter into agreements with multiple government agencies online. It is a single login method to begin the government for business transactions
Read More: Singapore CorpPass Guide
Documents Required to Fill the ACRA Bizfile
1. Company Name
It is essential to select your company name in the first step of the registration process. Therefore, choose an acceptable business name and make a name application through BizFile.
2. Type of Company
You are also required to select the type of business structure you want to incorporate. The several types of company structures include private or public companies. A private limited company in Singapore is the most widely used business form there.
3. Directors, Company Secretary, and Other Important Personnel
You have to appoint important officers of your company for further process such as Directors, Company Secretary, Chief Executive Officer or Managing Director, and Auditor.
Additionally, you need to provide information with concerns to these key personnel who include Personal Identity details, Contact information including telephone number and email address, Residential Address.
4. Licenses or Approvals
You would be compelled to apply for certain licenses or approvals from other government agencies before starting your business.
The licenses or approvals needed would rely upon the type of business you are scheduling to undertake.
What are the uses for ACRA Bizfile?
- The BizFile+ is used to enter your business records in the national company database.
- You can instantly change your business information: Company name, business activity, names of shareholders, etc.
- In case you’re late in filing an annual return or financial statements, this portal allows you to easily request an extension.
- You have the option of feeding financial information in XBRL format directly from your accounting software into BizFile. If you have signed copies of AGM minutes, upload the PDF version.
- LLPs, LPs, Partnerships, or Sole Proprietorships do not need to file financial statements.
Latest Compliances for Private Companies
The BizFile automatically integrates new compliance regulations after legislative modifications in the Companies (Amendment) Act 2014. These include:
- Updating shareholder data to kick-off ACRA’s supervision of electronic Registers of Members (EROM) of private companies from 3 Jan 2016 onwards. There are no fees for updating information in the EROM.
- Board approving the appointment of Chief Executive Officer (CEO, if any) in ACRA’s register. Late filing fines don’t need to be paid by companies whose CEOs were appointed before 3 Jan 2016 but only by those whose information was submitted between 3 Jan to 30 June 2016.
Advantages of Using ACRA BizFile+ for Business Registration
Filing your business documents through ACRA’s BizFile+ comes with multiple benefits that enhance efficiency, accuracy, and compliance. Some of the key advantages include:
- Convenience & Accessibility – The online system allows businesses to register, file, and update information remotely from anywhere in the world.
- Time & Cost Efficiency – The process is fully digital, reducing paperwork and cutting down processing times significantly.
- Enhanced Accuracy – With automated validation checks, BizFile+ ensures that business information is recorded correctly, minimizing errors.
- Regulatory Compliance – BizFile+ integrates real-time compliance updates, helping businesses stay up to date with the latest regulations.
- Seamless Integration with Accounting Systems – The platform supports XBRL (eXtensible Business Reporting Language), allowing businesses to submit financial statements directly from their accounting software.
- Easy Amendments & Renewals – Business owners can quickly update company details, change shareholder information, and request filing extensions when needed.
Conclusion
Setting up a business in Singapore requires registering with ACRA, and BizFile+ makes the process simple, fast, and efficient. Whether you’re a local business owner or an international investor, understanding how to navigate BizFile+ ensures a smooth company incorporation and compliance journey.
By following the step-by-step registration process, keeping up with compliance requirements, and leveraging the digital efficiency of BizFile+, you can establish your business with confidence.
If you require expert help registering your business, compliance filings, or regulatory requirements, feel free to reach out to OnDemand International. Our experts are ready to guide you through the ACRA registration process and help your business succeed in Singapore.
FAQ’s
All businesses operating in Singapore, including sole proprietorships, partnerships, and private limited companies, must register with ACRA through BizFile+. Foreign businesses expanding to Singapore must also register through this platform.
Yes, but foreigners must appoint a registered filing agent (such as OnDemand International) to complete the process on their behalf. They cannot register directly without a local authorized representative.
The Unique Entity Number (UEN) is a business identification number assigned to every registered entity in Singapore. It is required for official transactions with government agencies.
Yes:
SingPass is used by individuals (such as sole proprietors) to log in and interact with Singapore government services.
CorpPass is used by business entities for corporate transactions with government agencies.
Yes. BizFile+ allows businesses to update company names, shareholder details, registered addresses, and business activities online. Some changes may require ACRA’s approval.
