Starting a Company? 3 Essential Corporate Secretarial Services You’ll Need
Whether you’re launching a new business or expanding your operations into Singapore, compliance with local regulations is a must.
One of the most critical legal requirements for companies incorporated in Singapore is the appointment of a qualified corporate secretary within six months of registration with the Accounting and Corporate Regulatory Authority (ACRA).
What Does a Corporate Secretary Do?
A corporate secretary is responsible for managing your company’s statutory obligations, including the preparation and filing of annual returns and other required submissions to local authorities. They play a vital role in ensuring your business remains compliant with Singapore’s legal framework.
However, there are limitations on who can serve as your corporate secretary. The appointed person cannot be the sole director or a shareholder of the company. While it might be tempting to designate an internal team member, it is strongly recommended to engage a professional firm for this role to ensure seamless compliance and strategic guidance.
Why You Should Engage a Professional Corporate Secretarial Service
Professional corporate secretarial services do more than just fulfill compliance requirements. They also provide valuable guidance before incorporation to help set up your business for long-term success.
This is particularly important for foreign businesses entering the Singapore market. A qualified service provider will not only manage your compliance but also offer advice on structuring your company to take full advantage of Singapore’s low corporate taxes, tax incentives, and business-friendly environment.
Below are three key corporate secretarial services that every new business in Singapore should consider:
1. Business Structure Advisory
Choosing the right business structure—whether a Limited Liability Partnership (LLP), Private Limited Company (Pte Ltd), or Public Company—is critical to your success.
While LLPs may offer a simpler and more cost-effective setup, they don’t provide the same level of liability protection as a Pte Ltd. A professional service provider can evaluate your goals and recommend the most suitable structure. They can also handle the entire registration process, including the incorporation of a representative office for foreign entities.
This service often extends to assistance with applications for employment passes, residency passes, dependent passes, and even permanent residency if relocation is involved.
2. Regulatory Compliance Management
The corporate secretary ensures your business meets all statutory obligations and remains up to date with regulatory changes from ACRA. This function is increasingly outsourced by both entrepreneurs and large corporations to ensure accuracy and save valuable time.
At WLP, we offer a comprehensive range of compliance services, including:
- Annual statutory and regulatory compliance (in Singapore, as well as Malaysia)
- Provision of a named corporate secretary, nominee director, and nominee authorised representative
- Acting as a process agent
- Maintenance of statutory registers and company records
- Timely reporting of changes to company structure or ownership
- Preparation of board and shareholder resolutions
- Attendance and minute-taking at board and shareholder meetings
Additionally, as a full-service accounting and advisory firm, we offer custom solutions that integrate corporate secretarial services with payroll and tax accounting. This synergy helps you streamline operations, reduce costs, and unlock tax savings.
3. Restructuring and Company Cessation
If your business undergoes a restructuring or you decide to cease operations, proper legal steps must be followed to avoid unnecessary penalties.
At WLP, we assist companies through transitions such as converting to a public company or winding down operations. Our services include advisory and assistance with company strike-offs and members’ voluntary liquidation.
Need Corporate Secretarial Services in Singapore?
WLP is a trusted corporate services provider in Singapore with over a decade of experience and a strong track record, serving more than 1,000 clients across the region.
Our team helps businesses—from growing SMEs to multinational corporations—focus on what matters most: growth.
From tax accounting to full corporate secretarial support across Asia-Pacific, our solutions are designed to keep your business compliant, efficient, and poised for success.
Get in touch with us today to learn how our corporate services can empower your company.