Do I need a company secretary in Singapore?

Yes. Under the Singapore Companies Act, all registered companies must appoint a qualified local resident as a company secretary within 6 months of incorporation. The position cannot be left vacant for more than 6 months.

What qualifies someone to be a company secretary?

A company secretary in Singapore must be a natural person who is a local resident. They must also have the requisite experience or hold a professional qualification, such as being a qualified lawyer, accountant, or a member of a prescribed professional body like ISCA or SAICSA.

Can I be the sole director and the secretary of my company?

No. If you are the sole director of your company, you cannot also act as the company secretary. The roles must be filled by two different individuals.

What happens if I miss filing my Annual Return with ACRA?

Failing to file the Annual Return on time results in late filing penalties imposed by ACRA. In severe cases, it can lead to legal action against the company and its directors. We can assist with late filings and advise on mitigating any penalties.

Can I change my company secretary service mid-year?

Yes, you can switch providers at any time. We will handle the entire handover process, including preparing the necessary resolutions and updating ACRA's records, ensuring a smooth transition with no disruption to your compliance.

What is the Register of Registrable Controllers (RORC)?

The RORC is a private register that companies must maintain to record the details of their beneficial owners or controllers. The company secretary is responsible for maintaining this register and ensuring it is updated whenever there are changes.

What is the difference between Annual General Meeting (AGM) and Annual Return (AR)?

The AGM is the annual meeting of shareholders to approve the company's financial statements. The Annual Return (AR) is a separate online submission to ACRA that updates the public record with key company details, such as officers and financials. Most small companies can be exempted from holding an AGM but must still file an AR.

How quickly can you update a change of director with ACRA?

We can typically prepare the necessary resolutions and file the change of director with ACRA within 1-3 business days. We also offer urgent same-day filing services if required.

Professional Corporate Secretary Services in Singapore

Ensure your company remains fully compliant with ACRA, without the administrative burden. We provide complete peace of mind by expertly handling all your mandatory filings, from annual returns to officer updates. This allows you to focus on what you do best: running your business.

Our Secretary Plans

Ad Hoc Resolutions

From $80

Director/shareholder changes
Change of registered office
Update of Register of Registrable Controllers (RORC)
All other ACRA updates
Turnaround: 1-3 days
Same-day filing (urgent support available)

Annual Secretary Package

$360/year

Named company secretary of company
Annual Returns Filing with ACRA
Application for AGM exemption
Turnaround: 3 days

Comprehensive Secretary Package

$600/year

Named company secretary of company
Annual Returns Filing with ACRA
AGM documentation
Preparation of standard resolutions
Turnaround: 14 days

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a company secretary?
Yes. All Singapore companies must appoint a qualified company secretary within 6 months of incorporation. The position should not be vacant for more than 6 months
What qualifies someone to be a company secretary?
In Singapore, a company secretary must be a local resident and have the relevant experience or professional qualifications, e.g. lawyers, accountants, or members of prescribed professional bodies.
Can I be both the director and secretary of my company?
Yes but not if you are the only director in the company
What if I missed filing my Annual Return?
We help with late filings and can advise on penalty waivers or mitigation.
Can I change to your secretary service mid-year?
Absolutely. The process is seamless and we handle everything for you. Our team will coordinate directly with your previous provider to manage all the necessary paperwork and ACRA updates, ensuring a smooth, stress-free transition.