Register a Singapore Company from Denmark

Introduction

For Danish entrepreneurs and companies looking to expand into Asia, Singapore has become one of the most attractive and trusted destinations for international business setup. With its transparent legal system, competitive tax policies, and globally respected business environment, Singapore offers the perfect platform for Danish enterprises seeking to reach the fast-growing markets of Southeast Asia and beyond.

Whether you’re a Danish startup entering new territories, an established company opening an Asian subsidiary, or an investor seeking a reliable jurisdiction for business incorporation, Singapore provides all the right conditions for growth and success. This article explains why Danish businesses choose Singapore, how to register a Singapore company from Denmark, and the numerous advantages of doing so.

Why Danish Entrepreneurs Choose Singapore

1. Strategic Gateway to Asia-PacificSingapore is located at the crossroads of major global trade routes, making it an ideal hub for accessing ASEAN countries such as Malaysia, Indonesia, Vietnam, and Thailand. For Danish exporters and manufacturers, Singapore serves as a logistics and operations center for regional expansion.

2. Business-Friendly and Efficient SystemSingapore is renowned for its efficiency and minimal bureaucracy. Ranked consistently among the world’s easiest places to do business, it provides a fully digital company registration process that can be completed within a single day — even remotely from Denmark.

3. Attractive Tax RegimeSingapore’s corporate tax rate of 17%, coupled with no capital gains tax and no tax on dividends, provides substantial savings for foreign-owned companies. This is a strong incentive for Danish businesses operating in high-tax jurisdictions in Europe.

4. Stable Political and Legal FrameworkSingapore offers a corruption-free government, strong protection of property rights, and consistent legal enforcement — aligning with Danish values of integrity and fairness in business.

5. Reputation for ReliabilitySingapore’s global reputation as a financial and innovation hub enhances credibility for Danish companies operating under a Singapore-registered entity, opening doors to partnerships, investors, and clients worldwide.
   

Key Benefits of Registering a Singapore Company from Denmark

1. 100% Foreign OwnershipDanish citizens and companies can fully own their Singapore company without requiring a local shareholder.

2. Fast Incorporation ProcessThe entire process is digital and can be completed within one business day through a licensed corporate services provider (CSP).

3. Double Taxation Agreement (DTA)Singapore and Denmark have a DTA to prevent double taxation and reduce withholding taxes on dividends, royalties, and interest.

4. Free Repatriation of ProfitsDanish business owners can repatriate profits and dividends freely, without currency controls or additional withholding taxes.

5. Access to Asian and Global MarketsThrough Singapore’s Free Trade Agreements (FTAs), Danish companies enjoy tariff-free access to ASEAN, China, and India — major markets that drive the global economy.

6. Innovation and Technology EcosystemSingapore’s thriving tech ecosystem supports Danish firms in renewable energy, green technology, and digital transformation — key sectors where Denmark excels.
   

Common Business Structures for Danish Entrepreneurs

When setting up in Singapore, Danish business owners can choose from several types of entities depending on their operational and strategic needs:

1. Private Limited Company (Pte. Ltd.)

   • Separate legal entity from shareholders

   • Limited liability protection

   • Eligible for tax benefits and government incentives

   • 100% foreign ownership permitted

2. Subsidiary Company

   • A locally incorporated company owned by a Danish parent company

   • Treated as a Singapore tax-resident entity

   • Can benefit from local startup exemptions and grants

3. Branch Office

   • An extension of the Danish parent company

   • Not a separate legal entity

   • Parent company is liable for obligations and debts

4. Representative Office

   • Used for market research or partnership-building activities

   • Cannot generate income or engage in commercial transactions

   • Best for Danish companies exploring the market before committing to incorporation

For most Danish entrepreneurs, the Private Limited Company (Pte. Ltd.) structure offers the ideal combination of flexibility, limited liability, and tax efficiency.

Requirements to Register a Singapore Company from Denmark

To incorporate a company in Singapore, the following requirements apply:

1. At Least One Local DirectorEvery Singapore company must have at least one director who is a Singapore citizen, permanent resident, or Employment-Pass holder. Danish entrepreneurs can engage a nominee director through a licensed CSP to meet this requirement.

2. At Least One ShareholderA company must have between 1 and 50 shareholders. 100% foreign ownership is permitted for individuals or corporate entities.

3. Company SecretaryA qualified company secretary must be appointed within six months after incorporation to ensure compliance with the Companies Act.

4. Registered Office AddressEvery Singapore company must have a local registered address. Many foreign companies use virtual-office services that fulfill this requirement.

5. Paid-Up CapitalThe minimum paid-up capital is SGD 1, but many companies choose to start with higher amounts for credibility.

6. Approved Company NameThe company name must be unique and approved by the Accounting and Corporate Regulatory Authority (ACRA) before incorporation.
   

Step-by-Step Guide: How to Register a Singapore Company from Denmark

Step 1: Engage a Licensed Corporate Services Provider

Foreign individuals and companies cannot self-register a business directly with ACRA. Danish entrepreneurs must work with a licensed CSP that provides incorporation, nominee director, and compliance services.

Step 2: Choose and Reserve a Company Name

Submit one to three preferred names for approval. The process typically takes only a few hours unless the name requires additional review.

Step 3: Prepare Incorporation Documents

You will need to submit:

• Copies of passports and proof of address for all directors and shareholders

• Company Constitution (standard ACRA template available)

• Shareholding details and capital allocation

• Description of business activities

Step 4: File Incorporation with ACRA

Your CSP files all required documents electronically. If there are no complications, the company can be incorporated within one business day.

Step 5: Open a Corporate Bank Account

After incorporation, open a business bank account with DBS, OCBC, UOB, or international banks like HSBC and Standard Chartered. Some banks allow remote onboarding for Danish clients.

Step 6: Apply for Business Licenses (if required)

Depending on your sector — such as trading, finance, or education — additional business licenses may be necessary.

Step 7: Register for Taxes

If annual revenue exceeds SGD 1 million, register for Goods and Services Tax (GST). Corporate-tax registration is automatically handled through the Inland Revenue Authority of Singapore (IRAS).

Post-Incorporation Obligations

1. Annual FilingAll Singapore companies must file annual returns with ACRA and tax filings with IRAS.

2. Accounting and BookkeepingMaintain accurate financial records and prepare financial statements. Small companies may qualify for audit exemption.

3. Annual General Meeting (AGM)The first AGM must be held within 18 months of incorporation and then annually thereafter.

4. Employment and CPF ComplianceCompanies hiring local employees must comply with the Employment Act and contribute to the Central Provident Fund (CPF).
   

Tax and Financial Benefits for Danish Businesses

1. Double Taxation Agreement (DTA)The Denmark–Singapore DTA eliminates double taxation and reduces withholding taxes on dividends, interest, and royalties.

2. No Tax on Dividends or Capital GainsDividends distributed by Singapore companies and profits from the sale of shares are exempt from tax.

3. Startup Tax Exemption SchemeNewly incorporated companies can enjoy up to 75% tax exemption on the first SGD 100,000 of income for the first three years.

4. Flat Corporate Tax RateAt a fixed 17%, Singapore’s tax rate is among the lowest globally and significantly below the EU average.

5. Innovation and R&D IncentivesSingapore offers financial grants, tax rebates, and support programs for innovation and sustainability-focused enterprises — aligning with Denmark’s strengths in green technology and design.
   

Singapore–Denmark Economic Relationship

1. Strong Bilateral TiesDenmark and Singapore enjoy long-standing economic cooperation, especially in sustainability, shipping, renewable energy, and technology.

2. EU–Singapore Free Trade Agreement (EUSFTA)Danish companies benefit from the EUSFTA, which removes tariffs, strengthens intellectual-property rights, and provides easier access to ASEAN markets.

3. Presence of Danish Companies in SingaporeLeading Danish firms such as Maersk, Grundfos, and Vestas have established regional headquarters in Singapore, reinforcing its importance as a business base.

4. Innovation SynergiesDenmark’s leadership in clean energy and design aligns perfectly with Singapore’s emphasis on smart-city development and sustainability.

5. Collaborative OpportunitiesBoth countries promote green growth and innovation-driven business models, creating strong opportunities for Danish companies entering the Asian market.
   

Common Challenges and Practical Solutions

1. Finding a Local Director→ Solution: Appoint a reliable nominee director through your CSP to meet ACRA’s requirements.

2. Bank Account Opening→ Solution: Prepare clear documentation, including a business plan and proof of funds, to satisfy bank due diligence.

3. Compliance Management→ Solution: Engage professional accounting and corporate-secretarial services for annual filings and legal compliance.

4. Cultural Adaptation→ Solution: While English is the main business language, understanding Asian negotiation styles enhances relationship building.
   

Tips for Danish Entrepreneurs Expanding into Singapore

• Partner with an experienced corporate services provider to handle incorporation, compliance, and accounting.

• Join the Danish Business Association of Singapore (DABS) to network and learn from other Danish businesses.

• Leverage Singapore’s Enterprise Singapore programs for foreign investors.

• Use Singapore as a regional headquarters for operations across Southeast Asia.

• Explore sectors like sustainability, logistics, maritime, and clean energy, where Danish expertise is highly valued.
  

Conclusion

For Danish entrepreneurs and businesses, registering a company in Singapore is a strategic decision that opens the door to Asia’s most dynamic markets. With its political stability, transparent legal system, and low corporate taxes, Singapore offers everything Danish companies need to expand internationally with confidence.

Whether you’re establishing a regional base, launching a new startup, or investing in emerging Asian industries, Singapore provides the credibility, efficiency, and access you need for long-term success. By working with a trusted corporate-services provider, Danish investors can easily register their Singapore company from Denmark and begin operating in one of the most business-friendly environments in the world.

To find out more, visit https://www.shkoh.com.sg/incorporation-services