After ACRA Registration: Your 30‑Day Compliance Checklist

An ACRA registration makes your business idea a legal entity. However, the work afterwards strengthens your business foundation. Many new businesses struggle because they do not realise the tasks they need to complete. If you are new and/or unfamiliar with the process, this checklist is for you. 

This article compiles vital information from ACRA, BizFile, and GoBusiness. It also includes insights from competitors. From here, you learn to avoid common mistakes, make better choices, and start strong.

What You’ll Receive Immediately After Your ACRA Registration

Business Profile (BP)
After registration (or annual / renewal filing), you will be notified via your BizFile+ inbox. This BP is needed for opening bank accounts, applying for licenses, or contracting with service providers. You can then download your free Business Profile as an information product. Default

Gentle Reminder: Download the free BP within the 30-day free access period, or you may need to purchase it later.

Unique Entity Number (UEN)
This is issued automatically after your ACRA registration. Then, your UEN becomes your firm’s ID for government filings, taxes, licenses, and more.

More reading: What is a Unique Entity Number in Singapore? 

Statutory and Legal Obligations You Must Fulfil First

Appoint Key Officers

According to the ACRA’s guidelines, you must appoint at least a director and a company secretary within 6 months of your ACRA registration. The appointed director must be a Singapore resident or an authorised pass holder.

However, sole proprietors and partnerships have different requirements. Be sure to check all the regulations before the appointment.

Maintain Required Registers (Updated for 2025)

Register of Registrable Controllers (RORC)
You must maintain the RORC from the date of incorporation. This requirement was updated recently to remove grace periods. Any changes to registrable controllers must also be updated in a timely fashion. 

Register of Nominee Shareholders/Directors
Required for companies with share capital, including details like the nominator’s name, contact info. This information must be declared in your Annual Return. 

Corporate Service Provider (CSP) Compliance

CSPs must be registered under the law and meet AML / CFT (anti‑money laundering/counter terrorism financing) obligations. If you use a CSP for nominee director/shareholder / secretarial services, ensure they are properly registered.

Financial and Tax Setup

Open a Corporate Bank Account

To open a corporate account, you will need these documents, among others:

• Business Profile or Certificate of Incorporation
• Constitution (if company)
• Identification of directors/shareholders and proof of address
• Board resolution approving account opening

If you are unsure, GoBusiness provides a process guide for opening bank accounts for newly registered entities.

Choose Financial Year End (FYE)

Choose this early. It impacts when you submit Estimated Chargeable Income (ECI), annual returns, and audits. Many companies opt for 31 March, 30 June, or 31 December.

Estimated Chargeable Income (ECI) Filing

If your business is required (depending on entity type), file ECI within 3 months of the end of your FYE. Even dormant companies may have obligations. Check the IRAS guidelines.

GST Registration (if applicable)

Mandatory if your turnover exceeds S$1 million. Voluntary registration is possible below that. It helps you charge/claim GST appropriately.

Government Access and Authentication

Set Up CorpPass

After the UEN is issued, you will need to set up your CorpPass to access ACRA, IRAS, GoBusiness, and other governmental services. Here is how: 

1. Assign a CorpPass Admin
   2. Link your account to your UEN
   3. Use SingPass credentials to register
   4. Appoint authorised users to manage submissions on behalf of the company. 

HR, Payroll and Compliance (2025 Updates)

CPF Registration

This step is essential for businesses hiring Singapore citizens or Permanent Residents. In 2025, the employer contribution rates for those aged 55–65 are increased; the salary ceiling is raised to S$7,400. Be sure to adjust your payroll system accordingly.

Skills Development Levy (SDL)

The SDL applies to all employees. It is needed for grants and continuing training subsidies.

Set Up Payroll and Accounting Systems

With payroll and accounting systems, your team can automate compliance tasks like CPF, tax deductions, and leave records.

*Gentle Reminder: Maintain proper accounts and keep your financial records for at least 5 years.

Licensing and Regulatory Compliance

Identify If You Need Licenses

Depending on your business activities, you may need licenses or approvals, like premises safety and health permits. Use the GoBusiness Licensing portal to identify and apply.

Insurance and Risk Management

If you want to minimise unexpected losses or damages, it is ideal to build protection through insurance and policies. Some of the commonly sought-after are

• Public liability
• Professional indemnity
• Cybersecurity
• Work injury compensation

   

To apply, you will need

1. A business profile (BP), 
2. Your business’ UEN,
3. A description of your business activities, assets, and staff count.

    

Team Expansion and Hiring Essentials

Before hiring, there are a few things to prepare:

1. Ensure your corporate bank account, CPF, and SDL setups are ready
2. Prepare legally valid employment contracts
3. Define job roles, compensation structure, and policies
4. If employing foreigners, ensure work passes/licenses are in order

These steps will protect you and your employees from legal risks.

Your 30‑Day Compliance Action Plan

FAQs: Post‑Incorporation Must‑Knows

1. What happens if I delay CPF registration?
   Penalties, inability to engage employees properly, and possibly compliance issues.

    

2. Can I change my FYE after setting up my business?
   Yes, but certain IRAS conditions apply, so it is better to choose wisely upfront.

    

3. Do I need GST registration if I’m not earning S$1M yet?
   This process is not required, but voluntary registration might make sense if you expect to exceed the threshold.

    

4. Are nominee director services still legal?
   Yes, but you must engage CSPs registered under the relevant regulation. The new CSP /AML laws require transparency and due diligence.
   
   

Final Thoughts

These first 30 days after your ACRA registration create your legal, financial, and operational framework. As a rule of thumb, begin with the legal steps and essential licensing. Doing so ensures your business is operating within the law, reducing legal risks during the operation.

If you are a foreign founder, short on time, or want peace of mind, hiring a registered and compliant CSP is a smart choice. They provide guidance on your next actions from your ACRA registration and updates on the latest regulations. Good luck!

Disclaimer: The information provided in this article is intended for general guidance only and reflects regulations as of the publication date. Given that compliance requirements, processes, and fees may change over time, readers are advised to consult official sources such as ACRA for the most up-to-date information or seek professional guidance from our team.

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