Opening an Office in Singapore

Laws and Regulations on Setting up a business in Singapore

Depending on the type of business you are in you will either need to register with International Enterprise Singapore. If you will be starting a new company, you will need to register with the Accounting and Corporate Regulatory Authority; this is after you have obtained the necessary business license.

Visas

If you wish to explore business opportunities in Singapore you can apply for a Social Visit Pass for Entrepreneurs. Foreigners who want to start a new private limited company require the EntrePass, which allows entrepreneurs and their families to live and work in Singapore. Employment Passes and Work Permits are available for foreign employees.

Taxes

A range of tax benefits are available for small to mid-sized new start companies along with tax exemptions.

Human Resources

The Singapore Employment Act relates to all labour and employment issues along with employment rights, responsibilities and duties of both employers and employees. Key aspects of the Employment Act cover maximum work hours, overtime, bonuses, paid public holidays and maternity leave.

Business Etiquette

Pre-arranging business meetings is essential in Singapore, and a list of the members in your team along with their expertise sent beforehand. Introductions or referrals from a third party are always beneficial. The senior member of the party should enter first and make introductions, followed by the second senior member and so on. Rank is very important in Singapore. Punctuality is very important, and touching is considered impolite.