Singapore Branch Office Setup with Employment Pass

Singapore Branch Office Registration & Employment Pass Application

Setting up a branch office in Singapore involves several key requirements to ensure full compliance with local regulations. Apexia Corporate Advisory offers end-to-end solutions, including the registration of your Singapore branch office and the processing of Employment Pass applications for your relocating staff.

Requirements for Setting Up a Singapore Branch Office

To successfully register your Singapore branch office, the following requirements must be met:

1. Corporate Shareholder:

   Your foreign parent company must be the sole shareholder of the branch office.

2. Singapore Resident Agent:

   A resident agent must be appointed to handle the local administration of the branch office. The agent can either be a Singapore resident or an appointed staff member with an Employment Pass.

3. Registered Office Address:

   A physical office address in Singapore is required for registration purposes.

Taxation of Singapore Branch Office

A Singapore branch office is considered a non-resident entity for tax purposes, which means it is not eligible for tax incentives typically available to resident companies, such as those for new startups. Many foreign companies prefer to establish a subsidiary company in Singapore for access to tax benefits and exemptions.

Features of a Singapore Branch Office

• The name of the branch must match that of the parent company.
• It must appoint a local agent, who can be a Singapore resident or a foreign staff member holding an Employment Pass to assist in business administration.
• A branch office is not a separate legal entity; it is considered an extension of the foreign parent company, which is liable for its actions, losses, and debts.
• The business activities and structure of the branch are governed by the parent company's Memorandum and Articles of Association.
• The branch must have a registered office address in Singapore.

Advantages of a Singapore Branch Office

• Market Expansion: A branch office provides an excellent platform for foreign companies to explore and expand their business in the Singapore market.
• Brand Establishment: It serves as an official representation of your company, helping to strengthen your brand identity in the region.
• Local Connectivity: Direct access to local agents, distributors, and potential clients enhances business opportunities.

Disadvantages of a Singapore Branch Office

• Tax Considerations: Since a branch office is considered a non-resident entity, it is not eligible for tax exemptions or incentives available to new start-ups.
• Liability: The foreign parent company is responsible for the branch's debts, losses, and liabilities, as a branch office does not have its own legal identity.
• Annual Reporting: The foreign parent company must submit an annual report and audited accounts within two months of the branch office's annual general meeting (AGM).

Steps for Setting Up a Singapore Branch Office

1. Register Your Branch Office:

   Apexia Corporate Advisory will assist you with the registration of your Singapore Branch Office.

2. Appoint a Local Agent:

   You must appoint a Singapore resident or a foreign staff member with an Employment Pass to serve as the agent. Alternatively, you can engage our Nominee Agent Service.

3. Apply for Employment Pass:

   After your branch office is successfully registered, we will help you submit an Employment Pass application for the staff member relocating to Singapore.

Why Choose Apexia Corporate Advisory Incorporation Services?

• Expert Consultation: We provide in-depth consultation to ensure your Singapore branch office setup is fully compliant with all regulations.
• Comprehensive Services: From company registration to Employment Pass applications and nominee services, we handle all aspects of your Singapore branch office setup.
• Efficient and Hassle-Free: Our streamlined process ensures that your business is up and running in Singapore with minimal delays.

Get Started with Apexia Corporate Advisory Today

If you're ready to expand your business into Singapore and set up a branch office, Apexia Corporate Advisory is here to provide expert guidance and support throughout the entire process. Contact us today to begin your Singapore branch office setup.