Starting your own business in Singapore? One of the first steps is to reserve your business name and register a valid business address. Whether you’re planning to launch a sole proprietorship or a partnership, here’s what you need to know to get started smoothly and stay compliant with ACRA regulations.
Choosing and Reserving a Business Name
Your business name is your brand’s identity. To ensure it’s unique and compliant:
- Conduct a Name Search: Use BizFile+ to check if your proposed name is available.
- Avoid Restricted Names: ACRA will reject names that are:
- Identical to an existing business
- Undesirable (e.g., vulgar or offensive)
- Prohibited by order of the Minister for Finance
- Follow ACRA’s Guidelines: Refer to the Policy Statement on Business Names for full naming rules.
- Submit a Name Application: Pay a S$15 fee via BizFile+.
- Name Reservation Validity: Once approved, your name is reserved for 120 days. If you don’t register your business within this period, it becomes available to others.
- Possible Referrals: Names containing words like “school” may require referral approval (e.g., from the Ministry of Education).
Declaring Business Activities (SSIC Codes)
During the name application, you’ll need to:
- Select a primary and secondary business activity using the Singapore Standard Industrial Classification (SSIC) code.
- This national standard helps classify your business into a defined industry.
Providing a Valid Business Address
Every sole proprietorship or partnership must declare a valid business address during registration:
Declaring Your Residential and Contact Address
- Residential Address: Required by all business owners; shown in public records.
- Want Privacy? You can register a Contact Address to display instead.
Contact Address Rules:
- Must be a reachable address (e.g., office or CSP address)
- Cannot be a P.O. Box
- Must be in the same jurisdiction as your residential address
- No fee is required
Note: ACRA will continue sending all official correspondence to your residential address.
Summary Table: Key Requirements
Category | Requirement |
Business Name | Must be unique, non-offensive, approved by ACRA |
Name Application Fee | S$15 via BizFile+ |
Name Reservation Period | 120 days |
SSIC Code Requirement | Select primary and secondary activity during application |
Business Address | Must be physical; no P.O. Boxes allowed |
Home Office Scheme | HDB/URA approval needed for residential use |
Residential Address | Required for all owners; shown in public records |
Contact Address (Optional) | Can hide residential address if alternate contact address is registered |
Contact Address Fee | Free of charge |
Need Help Registering Your Business Name or Address?
Our team offers expert assistance with business name applications, address registration, SSIC code selection, and compliance with ACRA requirements. Contact us today for step-by-step support to start your business right in Singapore!