Register a Singapore Company from Japan

Introduction

For Japanese entrepreneurs seeking to expand beyond their domestic market, Singapore stands as one of the most business-friendly destinations in the world. With its stable government, low tax environment, and excellent global reputation, Singapore offers a safe and strategic platform for Japanese investors to access Southeast Asia and international markets.

This comprehensive guide explains why Japanese companies and entrepreneurs are increasingly incorporating in Singapore, the step-by-step process for registration, and how you can efficiently start and operate your Singapore entity from Japan.

Why Singapore Attracts Japanese Entrepreneurs

1. Strategic Asian GatewaySingapore is geographically positioned at the crossroads of major Asian economies — including Malaysia, Indonesia, Thailand, and Vietnam — making it a perfect base for Japanese businesses to expand regionally. It serves as an ideal gateway into the ASEAN market of over 600 million consumers.

2. Pro-Business EnvironmentThe Singapore government maintains one of the most transparent and efficient regulatory environments in the world. Bureaucratic processes are minimal, and most filings can be done online within a day.

3. Attractive Tax RegimeWith a flat 17% corporate tax rate, no capital gains tax, and numerous startup tax incentives, Singapore provides significant tax advantages for foreign-owned businesses. Startups can enjoy partial exemptions for their first few years, substantially lowering effective tax rates.

4. Political Stability and Strong Legal FrameworkSingapore’s predictable governance, strong intellectual property protection, and anti-corruption policies make it highly appealing to Japanese firms accustomed to structured, rule-based systems.

5. Reputation and International CredibilityIncorporating a Singapore entity instantly boosts global credibility. For Japanese exporters, traders, or technology companies, having a Singapore presence enhances trust among international clients and partners.

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Popular Business Structures for Japanese Companies

When registering a business in Singapore, Japanese entrepreneurs can choose among several entity types. The most common and recommended form is the Private Limited Company (Pte. Ltd.), but there are alternatives based on your business goals.

1. Private Limited Company (Pte. Ltd.)

   • Separate legal entity

   • Limited liability for shareholders

   • Eligible for tax incentives

   • 100% foreign ownership permitted

2. Branch Office

   • Extension of the Japanese parent company

   • Not a separate legal entity

   • Parent company remains liable for debts

3. Subsidiary Company

   • Singapore-incorporated entity owned by a Japanese parent company

   • Enjoys local tax benefits

   • Suitable for medium to large corporations

4. Representative Office

   • Used for research or liaison activities

   • Cannot generate revenue or sign contracts

   • Best for initial market exploration

For most Japanese SMEs and entrepreneurs, the Private Limited Company provides the ideal structure — combining flexibility, limited liability, and tax efficiency.

Requirements to Register a Singapore Company from Japan

To set up your company, 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. Japanese owners can appoint a nominee director to fulfill this legal requirement.

2. At Least One ShareholderA minimum of one and up to fifty shareholders are allowed. 100% foreign ownership is permitted, meaning your Singapore company can be fully owned by Japanese individuals or entities.

3. Company SecretaryYou must appoint a qualified company secretary within six months of incorporation.

4. Paid-Up CapitalThe minimum paid-up capital is SGD 1, though you can inject more to demonstrate financial strength.

5. Registered Office AddressThe company must have a local Singapore address. Many foreign-owned companies use a virtual office address service.

6. Approved Company NameThe name must be approved by the Accounting and Corporate Regulatory Authority (ACRA) before incorporation. It should not infringe trademarks or duplicate existing company names.

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Step-by-Step Guide to Register a Singapore Company from Japan

Step 1: Appoint a Corporate Services Provider

Foreigners cannot self-register a company directly with ACRA. You’ll need to engage a licensed corporate service provider in Singapore. They will handle all filings, provide nominee director services, and guide you through compliance requirements.

Step 2: Choose and Reserve Your Company Name

Submit your preferred company name for approval. ACRA usually approves names within a few hours if there are no conflicts or restricted terms.

Step 3: Prepare Incorporation Documents

You’ll need to prepare and provide:

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

• Details of shareholding structure

• Company Constitution

• Business activity description

Step 4: File Incorporation Application

Once all documents are ready, your service provider submits them electronically to ACRA. In most cases, the company is incorporated within one working day.

Step 5: Open a Corporate Bank Account

After incorporation, open a corporate bank account with major local banks such as DBS, UOB, or OCBC. Many banks allow remote account opening for Japanese clients if proper documentation is provided.

Step 6: Apply for Business Licenses (if applicable)

Depending on your business sector — for example, trading, education, or finance — additional licenses may be required. Your service provider can advise you based on your industry.

Step 7: Register for GST and Taxes

If your company’s annual revenue exceeds SGD 1 million, you must register for GST (Goods and Services Tax). Corporate tax registration with the Inland Revenue Authority of Singapore (IRAS) is automatically done during setup.

Ongoing Compliance Requirements

1. Annual Filing

   • File annual returns with ACRA

   • Submit tax filings to IRAS

2. Accounting and BookkeepingMaintain proper accounting records. Depending on company size, you may need to conduct an annual audit.

3. Annual General Meeting (AGM)Companies are required to hold their first AGM within 18 months of incorporation.

4. Employment Pass ApplicationsIf you or your employees plan to relocate to Singapore, you can apply for Employment Passes to live and work legally.

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Tax and Financial Advantages for Japanese Businesses

1. Double Taxation Agreement (DTA)Japan and Singapore have a DTA in place, ensuring businesses are not taxed twice on the same income — a major advantage for cross-border operations.

2. No Withholding Tax on DividendsDividends paid by Singapore companies to shareholders (including Japanese shareholders) are exempt from withholding tax.

3. Tax Exemptions for StartupsNewly incorporated companies can enjoy up to 75% tax exemption on their first SGD 100,000 of chargeable income for the first three years.

4. No Capital Gains TaxProfits from the sale of shares or assets are not taxed in Singapore.

5. Low Corporate Tax RateWith a headline rate of just 17%, Singapore’s effective tax rate is one of the lowest among developed economies.

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Why Japanese Companies Choose Singapore

1. Reputation for ExcellenceBoth Japan and Singapore share similar values of precision, reliability, and efficiency — making Singapore a natural fit for Japanese businesses expanding abroad.

2. Access to ASEAN MarketSingapore provides easy access to the fast-growing economies of Southeast Asia. Companies in logistics, trading, manufacturing, and fintech find Singapore an ideal hub for regional growth.

3. Strong Financial InfrastructureSingapore is one of the world’s top financial centers, providing access to global banking, venture capital, and investment opportunities.

4. Innovation and R&D SupportThe Singapore government actively supports innovation through grants and incentives for companies investing in technology, research, and sustainability.

5. Cultural Familiarity and ConnectivityThere is a large Japanese expatriate community and several Japanese chambers of commerce in Singapore, creating a familiar and supportive business environment.

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Common Challenges and Practical Solutions

1. Language and DocumentationWhile most filings are in English, Japanese entrepreneurs can engage bilingual consultants to assist with translations and communication.

2. Nominee Director RequirementSolution: Use a trusted local service provider offering nominee director services with full compliance.

3. Bank Account OpeningSome banks may require a physical presence. Solution: Choose banks that allow remote verification or use fintech platforms offering business accounts for foreigners.

4. Regulatory ComplianceKeeping up with Singapore’s annual filing requirements can be challenging. Partnering with an experienced corporate secretary and accountant ensures smooth operations.

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Tips for a Successful Singapore Incorporation

• Engage a professional incorporation services firm to manage all legal, tax, and compliance matters.

• Define a clear business plan to support your bank account application.

• Maintain accurate and up-to-date accounting records.

• Leverage Singapore’s startup grants and tax relief programs for newly incorporated companies.

• Network with the Japanese Chamber of Commerce & Industry in Singapore (JCCI) for partnerships and community support.

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Conclusion

For Japanese entrepreneurs, incorporating a company in Singapore offers an opportunity to access a world-class business environment, low taxes, and a regional hub for expansion. Whether you are an established corporation or a small business owner, Singapore provides all the tools and stability you need to thrive internationally.

By working with the right incorporation partner, you can complete the process remotely from Japan with minimal hassle — gaining access to Singapore’s thriving economy, robust legal framework, and exceptional global reputation.

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

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