If your company is incorporated outside Singapore but you want to expand operations in the region, registering a branch office in Singapore can be a strategic move. A branch office allows your existing foreign company to operate in Singapore under its original legal entity, rather than creating a separate subsidiary. This means you can leverage your existing brand, structure, and operations — while also gaining access to Singapore’s vibrant market, strategic location, stable legal regime, and business‑friendly environment.
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A branch office in Singapore enables you to do business locally, sign contracts, enter into obligations, hire staff, open bank accounts and more — but the branch remains legally part of the foreign parent company.
If you value simplicity, consistency, and brand continuity, registering a branch office in Singapore may offer an efficient route to expand regionally.
Key Differences: Branch Office vs Subsidiary
Before diving into how to register a branch office, it is important to understand how a branch structure differs from a subsidiary:
- A branch office is not a new legal entity; it is simply an extension of your foreign parent company.
- The parent company retains full legal liability for obligations and liabilities undertaken by the branch.
- A branch does not enjoy the same tax benefits or incentives as a locally incorporated company, because it is considered a non-resident entity for tax purposes.
- On the other hand, a branch can be quicker to establish and simpler to manage from a structural standpoint — no subsidiary share‑issuance, no separate corporate entity to manage.
Given these trade‑offs, many foreign companies choose a branch when they want presence + flexibility with less administrative overhead. If limited liability or local tax benefits are a priority, a subsidiary might still be a better choice.
Because of this, it’s critical to carefully weigh which structure fits your company’s long-term goals. Your trusted legal partner can help you decide.
Step‑by‑Step: How to Register a Branch Office in Singapore
Here is a detailed breakdown of the process to register a branch office in Singapore for a foreign company.
1. Ensure Eligibility & Prepare to Comply with Local Requirements
Engage a local filing agent
Foreign companies cannot directly register a branch through the online platform themselves. Registration must be filed via a local, approved filing agent or professional corporate‑services provider — such as a law firm, corporate secretary service, or accounting firm.
Appoint at least one authorised representative residing in Singapore
Your branch must appoint at least one person who is ordinarily resident in Singapore (a Singapore citizen, permanent resident or valid Employment Pass holder) to act as authorised representative. This person will accept legal documents and act as the company’s contact with local authorities.
Secure a physical registered address in Singapore
The branch must have a physical local office address (not a P.O. Box) which will serve as the official registered office in Singapore. This address will be used for all official correspondence and must be accessible during business hours.
2. Prepare Required Documentation
To register the branch, the foreign parent company will need to compile and submit certain certified documents, which typically include:
- A certified copy of the foreign company’s Certificate of Incorporation (or equivalent document).
- A certified copy of the company’s Constitution / Memorandum & Articles of Association (or equivalent charter).
- A current list of the parent company’s directors with their full particulars.
- Board resolution or decision from the parent company approving the establishment of the Singapore branch, and appointing the authorised representative(s).
- A Memorandum of Appointment (or Power of Attorney) for the local authorised representative, along with the representative’s consent to act.
- The Singapore branch’s proposed registered office address.
- The parent company’s latest audited financial statements or a letter of good standing / financial standing (depending on ACRA’s requirements).
If any of the submitted documents are not in English, they must be officially translated. All copies must be certified by a notary public (or equivalent) before submission.
3. Apply for Name Approval & Register the Branch with Accounting and Corporate Regulatory Authority (ACRA)
Name approval
The branch’s name must be exactly the same as the parent company’s name. You apply for name approval first. The name application costs S$15.
Registration filing
Once the name is approved, your filing agent will submit the rest of the documents through ACRA’s online portal (BizFile+). Upon approval, ACRA will register the branch under the relevant provisions of the Companies Act (Singapore) and issue a registration certificate — which serves as prima facie evidence of the branch’s registration.
Fees
The typical registration fee is S$300 for a branch of a company limited by shares.
The entire process — assuming correct paperwork — can often be completed within 1–2 business days from submission.
4. Post‑Registration: Compliance, Operations, and Ongoing Obligations
Once registered, your Singapore branch must comply with certain ongoing legal and regulatory obligations:
Registered address and public display
The branch must maintain its Singapore registered office address. The company name and place of incorporation must be clearly displayed on the registered office and all business letters, invoices, letterhead, notices, and official publications.
Annual filing
Under Section 373 of the Companies Act, the foreign company must lodge the branch’s audited accounts / balance sheet with ACRA within two months of its Annual General Meeting (or within seven months of end of financial year, whichever is earlier).
Tax obligations
Because the branch is considered non-resident under local tax law, it does not enjoy many of the incentives and benefits available to local resident companies. The standard corporate tax rate remains 17%.
Hiring, banking and other operations
Upon registration, the branch can hire both local and foreign employees, subject to necessary work‑pass approvals.
You may also open a corporate bank account in Singapore. Many banks require at least one director or authorised representative to be physically present when opening the account; some may allow remote onboarding depending on the bank.
Understanding the Legal Framework for a Singapore Branch Office
Foreign companies seeking to register a branch office in Singapore must operate under the Companies Act (Cap. 50) and regulations overseen by the Accounting and Corporate Regulatory Authority (ACRA). The law clearly defines a branch office as an extension of a foreign company, meaning it is not a separate legal entity. All liabilities, contracts, and obligations of the branch fall under the parent company.
Compliance with local laws is crucial, including employment laws, taxation, and corporate reporting requirements. Companies must appoint a local authorised representative and maintain a physical registered office address in Singapore. Understanding this legal framework helps avoid fines, legal complications, and operational risks, ensuring smooth expansion into Singapore.
Choosing Between a Branch Office and a Subsidiary
Before you register a branch office in Singapore, it is important to evaluate whether a branch or a subsidiary best suits your business goals.
- Branch Office: Simple to set up, directly linked to the parent company, no separate share capital required, quick registration. Parent company is fully liable.
- Subsidiary Company: Considered a separate legal entity, limited liability, access to tax incentives, requires share capital, more administrative overhead.
A professional legal advisor can assess your business model, operations, and risk appetite to determine which structure maximizes benefits while minimizing liability. Choosing the right structure early ensures long-term operational efficiency and tax planning.
Financial and Tax Considerations
A critical aspect of establishing a Singapore branch is understanding tax obligations and financial compliance. A branch office is considered a non-resident entity and pays tax at the standard corporate rate of 17% on income derived from Singapore. Unlike a local subsidiary, branches cannot take advantage of certain tax exemptions, incentives, or grants.
Additionally, the branch must maintain proper accounting records, prepare annual audited accounts, and file annual returns with ACRA. Companies should plan budgets for setup costs, ongoing compliance fees, and local office expenses. Careful financial planning ensures your branch remains compliant and profitable.
Employment and Staffing Requirements
Once you register a branch office in Singapore, hiring the right workforce is essential for smooth operations. Singapore allows foreign companies to employ both local and expatriate staff. However, foreign employees must obtain appropriate work passes, such as an Employment Pass, S Pass, or Dependant Pass.
The branch must also comply with employment regulations, including the Employment Act, CPF contributions for Singaporean employees, and workplace safety requirements. Effective staffing planning ensures your branch operates efficiently and remains compliant with Singapore labor laws.
Bank Account Setup for Your Singapore Branch
A key step after you register a branch office in Singapore is opening a corporate bank account. Banks typically require the following:
- Copy of ACRA registration certificate
- Parent company incorporation documents
- Authorised representative details
- Proof of branch office address
Many banks also request in-person verification, although some allow remote account opening depending on the bank’s policies. Having a local bank account is crucial for handling client payments, vendor transactions, payroll, and other operational financial activities.
Ongoing Compliance and Annual Obligations
Maintaining compliance is critical to keep your Singapore branch in good standing. After you register a branch office in Singapore, your obligations include:
- Annual filing of audited financial statements or accounts
- Maintaining a valid registered office address
- Updating ACRA with any changes in directors, representatives, or business activities
- Adhering to local tax laws, including Corporate Income Tax filing
- Ensuring all contracts, letters, and invoices display the branch’s registered name and parent company details
Failing to meet these obligations can result in penalties, legal exposure, or even removal from the ACRA register. A dedicated legal partner ensures your branch remains fully compliant and avoids unnecessary risks.
Common Mistakes & Risks Foreign Companies Should Avoid
Registering a branch is straightforward when done properly — but there are common pitfalls that can cause delays, complications, or legal risk.
- Incomplete or uncertified documentation: Failure to provide certified true copies — or not translating non-English documents — can lead to rejection.
- Using a P.O. Box as registered address: Singapore law requires a physical street address. A P.O. Box is invalid.
- No local authorised representative: This is mandatory. Without a resident authorised rep, ACRA will not process your application.
- Ignoring annual compliance and reporting obligations: Non-compliance could lead to fines or even removal from register.
- Underestimating liability exposure: Because the branch is not a separate entity, the parent company remains liable for all obligations. This is a major drawback compared to a subsidiary.
For companies unfamiliar with Singapore’s regulatory framework, or those seeking to limit liability and maximize tax and operational benefits, a separate subsidiary structure may sometimes be better. That’s why expert legal advice is often recommended before choosing your structure.
Why Choose Dewey & LeBoeuf LLP to Help You Register a Branch Office in Singapore
At Dewey & LeBoeuf LLP, we combine global expertise with deep regional insight to help companies expand across borders with confidence. Here is why clients choose us for registering their Singapore branch office:
- We guide you through the full registration process — from name approval to filing — ensuring all documents are properly prepared, certified, translated, and submitted.
- Our team can act as your local authorised representative or help you appoint one, leveraging our local presence and professional network.
- We manage compliance obligations, annual filings, and reporting, so you can focus on business operations rather than bureaucratic hurdles.
- We offer strategic advice on whether a branch office or a subsidiary makes more sense for your corporate goals — considering liability, tax, business scope, and long-term growth.
- As an international law firm with global reach, we understand cross-border legal, tax, and regulatory challenges and bridge those smoothly for you.
With Dewey & LeBoeuf LLP by your side, expanding into Singapore becomes a seamless, secure, and well‑managed process.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to be physically present in Singapore to register a branch office?
No. The registration process is typically handled by a local filing agent. As long as you supply certified documents, translated if necessary, and appoint a Singapore‑resident authorised representative, you don’t need to travel to Singapore.
Can I use a P.O. Box as the registered office address?
No. Singapore law requires a physical street address for the registered office. A P.O. Box is not acceptable.
Will a branch office in Singapore get the same tax incentives as a local Singapore company?
No. Because a branch office is treated as a non-resident entity and not a separate legal person, it does not qualify for many tax benefits or incentives reserved for local resident companies.
What happens if the branch fails to meet annual filing/ compliance requirements?
Non‑compliance — such as failing to lodge audited accounts, failing to maintain a registered address, or failing to update changes — may lead to fines, removal from the register or other legal consequences under the Companies Act.
Is a branch office always the best choice for foreign companies?
Not always. While a branch offers simplicity and continuity, it also exposes the parent company to direct liability, and foregoes tax and regulatory benefits of local incentivized incorporation. For companies focused on long-term presence, expansion or structured growth, setting up a subsidiary may be more advantageous.
Final Thoughts
Registering a branch office in Singapore offers established foreign companies a quick, legally compliant path to expanding their operations into one of Asia’s most stable and business‑friendly jurisdictions. The process is straightforward when handled professionally, from appointing a local authorised representative and securing a registered address, to preparing certified documents and filing with the regulator.
However, the choice between a branch and a subsidiary depends on your company’s long-term objectives, risk tolerance, and growth strategy. If you aim for convenience, flexibility, and continuity under your existing corporate structure, a branch can be ideal. If you prioritise limited liability, tax benefits, and local incentives, a subsidiary might be wiser.
At Dewey & LeBoeuf LLP we empower our clients to make the right decision, manage the entire registration process, and ensure ongoing compliance, so you can focus on what matters most: growing your business.
If you are ready to expand into Singapore or need personal guidance tailored to your company’s structure, contact Dewey & LeBoeuf LLP today and let us take care of everything for you.
E-mail: info@deweyleboeuf.com
Phone: +971 58 690 9684
Address: 26B Street, Mirdif, Dubai, UAE