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Starting Your Representative Office in Singapore [2024-25]: Complete Guide

In this article, we have discussed about starting your representative office in Singapore in 2024-25. Read the complete article to know more about registration process, benefits, documentation and more.

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    Table of Contents

    set up a representative office in singapore

    Overview: Setting Up a Representative Office in Singapore

    ‍Are you a foreign company looking to expand into Singapore? Setting up a representative office can be a smart way to develop your presence in this attractive sector. In this essay, I will walk you through the process of registering a representative office in Singapore, highlighting the necessary paperwork. In addition, I will cover the advantages of opening a representative office and explain why Singapore is an excellent place for your expansion. By the end of this essay, you will have a good grasp of how to establish a representative office in Singapore and the benefits it may provide for your business.

    How to Register a Representative Office in Singapore?

    Opening a representative office in Singapore is a pretty simple process. The first step is to select a good name for your office. It is critical to confirm that the name is not already registered or infringes on any trademarks. Once you’ve decided on a name, you’ll need to gather the proper documents for registration.

    The next step is to file your application with the Accounting and Corporate Regulatory Authority (ACRA). The application must contain a cover letter outlining the objective of the representative office, a completed application form, and a copy of the parent company’s certificate of incorporation. It is also necessary to have a local agent who can work on your behalf during the registration process.

    After submitting the application, you will need to pay the registration fee and wait for approval. The processing time can vary, but it typically takes around 14 days. Once your representative office is registered, you will receive a Letter of Approval from ACRA. This letter will serve as proof of your office’s existence and will allow you to proceed with the next steps of setting up your operations in Singapore.

    Read More: Open Your Branch Office in Singapore

    Documents Needed for Starting a Representative Office in Singapore

    The several key documents needed for starting a representative office in Singapore are :

    • Cover letter: A cover letter stating the purpose and activities of your representative office in Singapore.
    • Application form: A completed application form provided by ACRA.
    • Parent company documents: A copy of the parent company’s certificate of incorporation and memorandum and articles of association.
    • Appointment letter: An appointment letter from the parent company appointing a local agent to act on its behalf.
    • Financial statements: The latest audited financial statements of the parent company.
    • Office lease agreement: A copy of the office lease agreement or a letter of consent from the property owner.
    • Local agent’s details: The local agent’s identification card or passport and contact details.

    Benefits for Incorporating a Representative Office in Singapore

    Opening a representative office in Singapore provides various advantages for foreign companies. For starters, it allows you to create a physical presence in Singapore without having to set up a full-fledged subsidiary. This might be a cost-effective choice for businesses looking to test the market or do specialised tasks like market research or business development.

    Second, a representative office provides an opportunity to network and develop ties with local firms and potential clients. Singapore is well-known for its strong business environment and strategic position, making it an excellent starting point for growing into South-east Asian neighbours.

    Furthermore, opening a representative office in Singapore might boost your company’s brand and trustworthiness. Having a local presence demonstrates your commitment to the market and builds confidence with potential partners and customers. This can lead to new opportunities and help you create a strong presence in the region.

    Why Setup a Representative Office in Singapore?

    Singapore provides various advantages to multinational enterprises wishing to grow their presence in Asia. The city-state enjoys a stable political and economic environment, making it a secure and reliable investment destination. It also boasts a well-developed infrastructure, which includes top-tier transportation, communication, and financial systems.

    Furthermore, Singapore has a business-friendly regulatory structure and provides different incentives and tax breaks to enterprises. The government aggressively encourages and supports foreign investment through programmes such as the Global Investor Programme and the Global Innovation Alliance.

    Singapore’s strategic location in the heart of Southeast Asia also makes it an attractive choice for setting up a representative office. With its excellent connectivity and proximity to emerging markets, Singapore serves as a gateway to the region, allowing companies to tap into the vast opportunities it offers.

    Conclusion

    Starting a representative office in Singapore might be a wise decision for foreign companies seeking to expand into the Asian market. By completing the registration process and preparing the appropriate documentation, you may establish your presence and reap the benefits of working in this vibrant and thriving commercial hub. So why wait? Take the first step towards discovering the prospects that Singapore has to offer.

    To learn more about establishing a representative office in Singapore, contact OnDemand International, your reliable partner for company expansion and corporate services.

    Contact OnDemand International for experienced advice and assistance in establishing your representative office in Singapore.

    FAQ’s

    By completing a registration form for a representative office and sending it to Enterprise Singapore along with the required documentation, you can open a representative office in Singapore.

    • The RO is exempt from paying taxes, filing appropriate paperwork, and managing yearly filing because it lacks a legal structure.
    • Foreign businesses with offices in Singapore are permitted to choose their own representation. This indicates that in order to set up this type of company in Singapore, the candidate is not obliged to first identify a Singaporean representative to recruit.
    • The international business’s annual sales must amount to at least $250,000.
    • The overseas business must have been in operation for at least three years.

    In contrast to a representative office, which possesses no legal standing and is therefore unable to undertake any trading or business operations that create revenue, a branch office is a legal expansion of the overseas parent business and is therefore permitted to carry out business operations and make money in Singapore.