Need ACRA info fast? Grab the Business Profile PDF from ACRA’s BizFile+ portal in under 5 minutes. No Singapore registration? No problem—you can still sell legally as a sole proprietor, just use your legal name until you register your business name.
What does ACRA actually do?
Think of it as the government’s business babysitter. ACRA handles business registration, keeps an eye on financial reporting, regulates public accountants, and supervises corporate service providers. Born in 2004 from a merger between the old Registry of Companies and the Public Accountants’ Board, it now answers to the Ministry of Finance. You’ll find ACRA enforcing the Companies Act and Accountants Act—basically the rulebook for businesses here.
How do I pull my ACRA business profile?
Here’s the drill:
- Fire up your browser and head to BizFile+.
- Log in with your SingPass or CorpPass. No account yet? Sign up at SingPass first.
- Click through Find Information > Business Profile > Buy Business Profile.
- Type in the company’s Unique Entity Number (UEN) and hit Search.
- Toss the PDF in your cart ($5 as of 2026), check out, and download it straight to your device.
Why can’t I find my business profile?
- Want a quick peek? The ACRA online directory shows basic status and entity type for free—just search the UEN.
- Still drawing a blank? Call ACRA’s helpdesk at +65 6248 6028 or use the chat in BizFile+ during business hours (Mon–Fri, 8 a.m.–5 p.m. SGT).
- LLP acting up? Double-check that the LLP’s annual declaration is filed; overdue filings can make the profile vanish temporarily.
How do I keep my filings clean?
Block off 10 minutes each month to file annual returns in BizFile+. Turn on email alerts for any UENs you’re tracking. If you’ve got a registered address, give it a quick check every year—ACRA will shut down businesses with undeliverable addresses. Keep shareholder and officer details fresh to dodge status changes from “live” to “struck-off.” Honestly, this beats scrambling at the last minute.
What’s the Unique Entity Number (UEN) anyway?
Every registered business in Singapore gets one. It’s how ACRA tracks your filings, taxes, and legal obligations. Think of it like a NRIC for your company. You’ll need it for everything from opening a bank account to signing contracts.
Can I register a business without ACRA?
As a sole proprietor, you can operate under your legal name without registering a business name. Once you want to use a fancy business name, though, ACRA becomes mandatory. Without registration, you can’t open a corporate bank account, hire employees legally, or sign contracts under that business name. It’s a short-term workaround, not a long-term solution.
What happens if I miss an ACRA filing deadline?
ACRA doesn’t mess around with deadlines. Miss the annual return deadline, and you’ll face late fees that stack up fast. Keep ignoring them, and your company could get slapped with a “struck-off” status—meaning it’s technically dissolved. That’s a pain to reverse. Set those calendar reminders.
How do I check if a company is legit?
Head to the ACRA online directory, punch in the UEN or company name, and you’ll see the current status, entity type, and key details. It’s the fastest way to confirm whether a business is actually registered and in good standing. (Pro tip: Always check before signing any contracts.)
Can foreigners register a business in Singapore?
Foreigners can absolutely set up shop here, but Singapore requires at least one local director (who’s ordinarily resident) on the board. You’ll also need to appoint a registered filing agent and handle the paperwork through BizFile+. Some industries have extra hoops, so check the rules first.
What’s the difference between ACRA and IRAS?
They’re like two sides of the same coin. ACRA keeps the corporate registry updated and enforces business regulations. IRAS, on the other hand, is all about taxes—collecting them, processing filings, and doling out rebates. You’ll deal with both, but for completely different reasons.
How much does ACRA registration cost?
That’s the government fee to register your business name. If you’re setting up a private limited company, expect to pay $300 for incorporation. There are extra charges for things like business profile PDFs ($5) or late filings, so budget accordingly. Honestly, this is the best approach—skip the shortcuts and do it right from the start.
What’s the fastest way to get ACRA documents?
No waiting around for snail mail. Once you’ve paid the $5 fee for a business profile, the PDF appears immediately in your account. Need it for a bank loan or government tender? Print it right away. Just make sure your SingPass or CorpPass is ready to go.
Can I change my business name after registration?
You’ll need to file a name change request through BizFile+ and pay the $15 fee. ACRA will review it, and if approved, your new name goes live. The whole process usually takes a few days. Just remember—your UEN stays the same even if your business name changes.
What’s the easiest business structure to set up?
No shareholders, no directors, no fuss. You just register your business name (or use your legal name) and you’re off. The catch? You’re personally liable for debts and lawsuits. If you want protection, a private limited company is better—but it’s more paperwork upfront. Most people start simple, then upgrade later.
How do I close a business properly?
First, make sure all outstanding filings and taxes are settled. Then submit the application and pay the $30 fee. ACRA will publish a notice in the Gazette—if no one objects within two months, your company gets struck off. It’s cleaner than just walking away and hoping for the best.
Where can I find ACRA’s latest updates?
ACRA posts updates on its homepage and inside BizFile+. They’ll announce fee changes, filing deadlines, and new regulations. Set up those email alerts we mentioned earlier—no surprises, no last-minute scrambles.
