Register a Singapore Company from Portugal

Introduction

For Portuguese entrepreneurs and companies looking to expand their business globally, Singapore has emerged as one of the most attractive and strategic destinations in Asia. Known for its efficient bureaucracy, strong legal system, and low taxes, Singapore consistently ranks among the world’s best countries for doing business.

Whether you are a Portuguese SME, startup, or multinational corporation, setting up a company in Singapore offers an entry point into the fast-growing Asian market while providing an ideal environment for innovation, trade, and investment. This guide explains why Singapore is the preferred destination for Portuguese business owners, how to register a company from Portugal, and what benefits you can expect from incorporating there.

Why Portuguese Entrepreneurs Are Choosing Singapore

1. Strategic Gateway to AsiaSingapore is strategically positioned at the heart of Southeast Asia, connecting Portuguese companies to major markets such as China, India, and Indonesia. With world-class infrastructure, a skilled workforce, and excellent logistics, Singapore serves as the perfect base for regional operations.

2. Ease of Doing BusinessSingapore is renowned for its transparent and efficient regulatory environment. Company registration, tax filing, and licensing processes are all digital, allowing Portuguese entrepreneurs to complete incorporation remotely in as little as one business day.

3. Attractive and Predictable Tax SystemWith a corporate tax rate capped at 17%, no capital gains tax, and no tax on dividends, Singapore offers one of the world’s most competitive tax structures. This allows Portuguese investors to retain more profits for reinvestment and growth.

4. Political Stability and Strong Legal FrameworkLike Portugal, Singapore maintains a reputation for political stability and rule of law. The government provides clear regulations and enforces contracts reliably, giving foreign investors a sense of security.

5. Global Reputation and CredibilityA Singapore-registered company enjoys international recognition and trust. For Portuguese exporters, technology firms, and service providers, operating under a Singapore entity enhances credibility across Asia and the Middle East.
   

Key Advantages of Registering a Singapore Company from Portugal

1. 100% Foreign OwnershipSingapore allows Portuguese citizens and companies to own their business entirely without requiring a local partner.

2. Fast and Remote IncorporationThe entire incorporation process can be done online through a licensed corporate service provider (CSP), eliminating the need for travel to Singapore.

3. Double Taxation Agreement (DTA)Portugal and Singapore have a DTA that prevents companies from being taxed twice on the same income and reduces withholding taxes on dividends, interest, and royalties.

4. Free Repatriation of ProfitsPortuguese business owners can freely transfer profits and dividends back home without restrictions or additional withholding taxes.

5. Access to ASEAN and Global MarketsSingapore’s extensive Free Trade Agreements (FTAs) provide Portuguese companies with tariff-free access to Asia’s largest economies.

6. Innovation and Financial HubSingapore is a leading center for finance, technology, and innovation — providing access to venture capital, grants, and world-class financial institutions.
   

Business Structures Available for Portuguese Entrepreneurs

When registering in Singapore, Portuguese investors can choose from several entity types depending on their goals:

1. Private Limited Company (Pte. Ltd.)

   • Separate legal entity from shareholders

   • Limited liability protection

   • Eligible for tax exemptions and government grants

   • 100% foreign ownership allowed

2. Subsidiary Company

   • A local Singapore entity owned by a Portuguese parent company

   • Treated as a Singapore-resident company for tax purposes

   • Suitable for medium to large corporations expanding into Asia

3. Branch Office

   • Extension of the Portuguese parent company

   • Not a separate legal entity

   • Parent company bears all liabilities

4. Representative Office

   • For non-commercial activities such as market research or liaison work

   • Cannot generate revenue or sign contracts

   • Best for businesses exploring opportunities before full incorporation

For most Portuguese entrepreneurs, the Private Limited Company structure offers the best flexibility, credibility, and tax advantages.

Requirements to Register a Singapore Company from Portugal

To set up a company in Singapore, the following requirements must be met:

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. Portuguese business owners can appoint a nominee director through their corporate-service provider to fulfill this requirement.

2. At Least One ShareholderThe company must have between one and fifty shareholders. 100% foreign ownership is permitted.

3. Company SecretaryA qualified company secretary must be appointed within six months of incorporation.

4. Registered Office AddressA local Singapore address is required for official correspondence. Many foreign companies use virtual-office services.

5. Paid-Up CapitalThe minimum paid-up capital is SGD 1, though a higher capital amount is recommended for business credibility.

6. Approved Company NameThe proposed 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 Portugal

Step 1: Engage a Licensed Corporate Services Provider

Foreign individuals and entities cannot directly register a company with ACRA. Portuguese entrepreneurs must engage a licensed CSP to manage incorporation, nominee-director services, and compliance filings.

Step 2: Choose and Reserve Your Company Name

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

Step 3: Prepare Incorporation Documents

You’ll need to provide:

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

• Company Constitution (standard ACRA template available)

• Share allocation details

• Description of business activities

Step 4: File for Incorporation

Once documents are ready, your CSP will file them electronically with ACRA. Most companies are incorporated within one business day.

Step 5: Open a Corporate Bank Account

After incorporation, open a bank account with DBS, OCBC, UOB, or international banks such as HSBC or Standard Chartered. Many banks allow remote onboarding for Portuguese clients.

Step 6: Obtain Business Licenses (if required)

If your business involves regulated sectors — such as finance, education, or import/export — additional licenses may be required.

Step 7: Register for Taxes

If annual turnover exceeds SGD 1 million, you must register for Goods and Services Tax (GST). Corporate-tax registration is handled automatically through IRAS.

Post-Incorporation Obligations

1. Annual Filing

   • File annual returns with ACRA

   • Submit corporate-tax filings to IRAS

2. Accounting and AuditMaintain proper accounting records. Smaller companies may be exempt from audit if they meet the “small-company” criteria.

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

4. Employment RegulationsIf hiring locally, comply with Singapore’s Employment Act and CPF (Central Provident Fund) rules.
   

Tax and Financial Benefits for Portuguese Businesses

1. Double Taxation Agreement (DTA)The Portugal–Singapore DTA ensures companies are not taxed twice on the same income and reduces withholding-tax rates on dividends, royalties, and interest.

2. No Tax on Dividends or Capital GainsProfits distributed as dividends and gains from asset sales are tax-free in Singapore.

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

4. Flat Corporate-Tax RateWith a flat rate of 17%, Singapore offers a predictable and transparent taxation environment.

5. Tax Incentives and GrantsSingapore provides numerous incentives for innovation, technology adoption, and sustainability — ideal for Portuguese entrepreneurs in these sectors.
   

Singapore–Portugal Economic Relationship

1. Bilateral Cooperation and EU–Singapore Free-Trade Agreement (EUSFTA)Portuguese companies benefit from the EUSFTA, which eliminates tariffs, protects intellectual property, and improves market access across ASEAN through Singapore.

2. Growing Trade TiesTrade between Portugal and Singapore continues to expand in areas like renewable energy, technology, maritime services, and tourism.

3. Presence of Portuguese Businesses in SingaporeSeveral Portuguese firms, including those in construction, shipping, and design, have established offices or partnerships in Singapore.

4. Complementary StrengthsPortugal’s creative industries and engineering expertise complement Singapore’s technological and financial strengths, creating opportunities for collaboration.

5. Innovation SynergiesBoth countries focus on sustainability and digital transformation, making Singapore a natural extension for Portuguese innovators and startups.
   

Common Challenges and How to Overcome Them

1. Local Director Requirement→ Solution: Engage a reputable nominee-director service offered by your corporate-service provider.

2. Understanding Compliance Requirements→ Solution: Work with experienced corporate-secretarial and accounting professionals to manage filings accurately.

3. Opening a Bank Account→ Solution: Prepare a detailed business plan, proof of address, and funding documentation to comply with banking KYC regulations.

4. Cultural and Market Differences→ Solution: Attend networking events and partner with local experts to navigate the Singapore business environment effectively.
   

Tips for Portuguese Entrepreneurs Expanding into Singapore

• Partner with an established incorporation and accounting firm for a smooth setup.

• Join the Portuguese Business Council of Singapore or EU Chamber of Commerce for networking and insights.

• Use Singapore as your regional headquarters to oversee Asian operations.

• Take advantage of Enterprise Singapore programs that assist foreign investors and startups.

• Leverage Singapore’s free-trade agreements to expand exports and reduce tariffs.
  

Conclusion

For Portuguese entrepreneurs and investors, registering a company in Singapore is a smart strategic decision that offers access to new opportunities across Asia and the world. The combination of an efficient business environment, low taxes, and strong international reputation makes Singapore one of the best places globally to expand your operations.

Whether you’re running a tech startup, a trading company, or a professional-services firm, Singapore provides the stability, credibility, and infrastructure you need to succeed internationally. With professional assistance from a licensed corporate-services provider, you can register your Singapore company from Portugal quickly, compliantly, and confidently.

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