Register a Singapore Company from France

Introduction

For French entrepreneurs and companies looking to expand into Asia, Singapore represents one of the best destinations in the world to establish a new business. Known for its political stability, low tax rates, and business-friendly environment, Singapore provides the ideal foundation for international growth.

Whether you’re a French startup exploring Southeast Asia, an established company diversifying global operations, or an investor seeking a tax-efficient base, registering a Singapore company offers unparalleled advantages. This guide explains why French entrepreneurs are choosing Singapore, how to register a company remotely from France, and what key benefits to expect.

Why French Entrepreneurs Are Choosing Singapore

1. Gateway to the Asia-Pacific MarketSingapore’s strategic location at the heart of Southeast Asia makes it an ideal hub for French businesses targeting ASEAN, China, and India. The city-state is a regional base for thousands of multinational corporations and small enterprises alike.

2. Ease of Doing BusinessSingapore consistently ranks among the top countries in the world for ease of doing business. Processes such as company registration, banking, and tax filing are efficient and fully digitalized — perfect for entrepreneurs managing operations remotely from France.

3. Low and Transparent Tax SystemSingapore’s corporate tax rate is capped at 17%, with attractive startup tax exemptions and no capital gains tax. This makes it significantly more tax-efficient compared to France’s higher corporate tax regime.

4. Political and Legal StabilitySingapore’s stable governance, transparent regulatory environment, and strong rule of law attract French investors who value predictability and compliance.

5. Excellent Global ReputationIncorporating a Singapore entity enhances business credibility. Many French companies use their Singapore subsidiaries to trade across Asia or as holding companies for international investments.
   

Key Benefits of Registering a Singapore Company from France

1. 100% Foreign OwnershipUnlike some countries, Singapore allows full foreign ownership in a Private Limited Company. French nationals can own 100% of their business without requiring a local partner.

2. Simple Incorporation ProcessWith the help of a registered corporate service provider, French entrepreneurs can complete the entire incorporation process within one working day.

3. Double Taxation Agreement (DTA) Between France and SingaporeThe DTA ensures that income is not taxed twice in both jurisdictions, offering significant savings for French companies engaged in cross-border operations.

4. Repatriation of ProfitsProfits earned in Singapore can be repatriated to France without restrictions, and dividends are exempt from withholding tax.

5. Strong Financial InfrastructureSingapore’s advanced banking system provides easy access to multi-currency accounts, trade financing, and cross-border payment facilities.

6. Talent and ConnectivityWith world-class infrastructure, skilled professionals, and direct flights to major French and European cities, Singapore is the natural choice for global expansion.
   

Types of Singapore Business Entities for French Entrepreneurs

French entrepreneurs can choose among several business structures when registering in Singapore, depending on their objectives:

1. Private Limited Company (Pte. Ltd.)

   • Separate legal entity from shareholders

   • Limited liability protection

   • Eligible for tax benefits and startup exemptions

   • 100% foreign ownership permitted

2. Subsidiary Company

   • Singapore company owned by a French parent company

   • Treated as a local tax resident entity

   • Suitable for multinational expansion

3. Branch Office

   • Extension of the French parent company

   • Not a separate legal entity (parent remains liable)

   • Appropriate for established corporations

4. Representative Office

   • Non-revenue-generating entity

   • Used for market research or liaison work

   • Temporary option before establishing full operations

For most French entrepreneurs, the Private Limited Company structure is ideal due to its flexibility, tax efficiency, and international recognition.

Requirements to Register a Singapore Company from France

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. French investors can appoint a nominee director provided by their corporate services firm.

2. At Least One ShareholderThe company must have at least one shareholder (individual or corporate). Singapore allows up to 50 shareholders, with no restrictions on foreign ownership.

3. Company SecretaryA qualified company secretary must be appointed within six months of incorporation to ensure compliance with local regulations.

4. Registered Office AddressThe business must have a local Singapore address. Most foreign entrepreneurs use virtual office services for this requirement.

5. Paid-Up CapitalThe minimum paid-up capital is SGD 1, although many businesses choose to start with SGD 1,000 or more for credibility.

6. Approved Company NameThe name must be unique, non-infringing, and approved by the Accounting and Corporate Regulatory Authority (ACRA).
   

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

Step 1: Engage a Corporate Service Provider

French entrepreneurs cannot self-register a company directly with ACRA. You must engage a licensed corporate service provider (CSP) in Singapore. They will manage incorporation, nominee director services, and ongoing compliance.

Step 2: Choose and Reserve Your Company Name

Submit one to three preferred names for approval. The process usually takes a few hours unless manual review is required.

Step 3: Prepare Incorporation Documents

Provide the following:

• Passport and proof of address for all directors/shareholders

• Company Constitution

• Share allocation details

• Description of business activities

Step 4: File the Incorporation

Once documents are signed, your CSP will submit them electronically to ACRA. Incorporation approval is typically granted within one business day.

Step 5: Open a Corporate Bank Account

After incorporation, open a corporate bank account with banks such as DBS, OCBC, UOB, or HSBC. Some banks permit remote account opening for French clients if sufficient documentation is provided.

Step 6: Apply for Business Licenses (If Required)

Depending on your sector — such as trading, finance, or education — specific licenses may be needed before commencing operations.

Step 7: Register for GST

If your annual turnover exceeds SGD 1 million, you must register for Goods and Services Tax (GST).

Post-Incorporation Compliance

1. Annual Filing

   • File annual returns with ACRA

   • File tax returns with the Inland Revenue Authority of Singapore (IRAS)

2. Accounting and BookkeepingMaintain accurate financial records and prepare unaudited or audited financial statements, depending on company size.

3. Annual General Meeting (AGM)Must be held within 18 months of incorporation, then annually thereafter.

4. Employment RegulationsIf hiring staff locally, comply with the Employment Act and CPF (Central Provident Fund) obligations.
   

Tax and Financial Benefits for French Businesses

1. Double Taxation Agreement (DTA)The France-Singapore DTA eliminates double taxation and reduces withholding tax rates on dividends, interest, and royalties.

2. Startup Tax ExemptionsNew companies can enjoy up to 75% tax exemption on the first SGD 100,000 of income during their first three years.

3. No Capital Gains or Dividend TaxSingapore does not tax capital gains or dividends paid to shareholders — a clear advantage for French investors.

4. Low Effective Tax RateMany businesses pay an effective corporate tax rate below 10% after deductions and exemptions.

5. Ease of International BankingMulti-currency accounts and smooth international fund transfers make Singapore an ideal financial hub for French entrepreneurs managing cross-border trade.
   

Why France–Singapore Business Relations Are Growing

1. Bilateral AgreementsFrance and Singapore share strong diplomatic and trade relations under various bilateral and European Union agreements.

2. Innovation CollaborationBoth nations prioritize technology, innovation, and research, with partnerships in aerospace, energy, and fintech.

3. Cultural CompatibilityFrench creativity and design excellence complement Singapore’s efficiency and structure, creating fertile ground for collaboration.

4. Presence of French CorporationsMany major French companies, including Airbus, BNP Paribas, and TotalEnergies, have long-established headquarters in Singapore — signaling strong trust and opportunity.
   

Common Challenges for French Entrepreneurs

1. Finding a Local Director→ Engage a trusted nominee director through your corporate service provider.

2. Understanding Regulatory Requirements→ Use professional accounting and secretarial services to ensure compliance with Singapore’s Companies Act.

3. Language and Documentation→ Although English is the business language, work with bilingual consultants if needed for translations and clarity.

4. Bank Account Approval→ Prepare a clear business plan and detailed KYC documents to expedite account opening.

Practical Tips for French Business Owners

• Partner with an experienced incorporation services firm for smooth setup.

• Take advantage of Singapore’s free trade agreements (FTAs) for better regional access.

• Join the French Chamber of Commerce in Singapore (FCCS) to network with the local French business community.

• Explore Enterprise Singapore programs that support international startups.

• Use Singapore as a regional headquarters for Asian operations.
  

Conclusion

For French entrepreneurs, registering a Singapore company offers a blend of flexibility, low taxes, and global prestige. Whether you’re establishing a trading firm, fintech startup, or regional office, Singapore’s pro-business framework allows you to operate efficiently and profitably.

With streamlined registration, world-class infrastructure, and a robust tax system, Singapore continues to attract ambitious French investors looking to expand internationally. Partnering with a professional incorporation firm ensures the process is fast, compliant, and strategically structured for long-term success.

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