Do Indian Entrepreneurs Need a Resident Director in Singapore?

For many Indian entrepreneurs, Singapore is one of the top choices for setting up a business. The country offers low taxes, a stable economy, and a reputation as one of the easiest places in the world to do business. But before you can get started, it’s important to understand one key legal step in the incorporation process: appointing a Resident Director.

This requirement applies to every Singapore small business and is a crucial part of using company incorporation services in Singapore. Let’s break down what it means and how Indian founders can meet it with ease.

1. Why a Resident Director Is Required

According to the Singapore Companies Act, enforced by the Accounting and Corporate Regulatory Authority (ACRA):

• Every company incorporated in Singapore must appoint at least one Resident Director who is ordinarily resident in the country.

• This ensures that your Singapore small business has a local representative who can communicate with authorities and oversee compliance.

Simply put, without a Resident Director, you cannot complete the company incorporation process in Singapore.

2. Who Qualifies as a Resident Director?

The role of Resident Director comes with clear eligibility rules. They must:

• Be a natural person (not a corporate entity)

• Be at least 18 years old

• Not be disqualified under the Companies Act

They must also meet residency criteria, which means they can be:

• A Singapore Citizen

• A Singapore Permanent Resident (PR)

• A foreigner with a valid pass, such as:

  • Employment Pass

  • EntrePass

  • Dependant Pass (with a Letter of Consent)

For Indian founders, this makes it important to identify early whether you personally qualify—or if you’ll need outside support.

✅ Our expert team streamlines your business journey, from company incorporation to tax filing. We offer transparent pricing, dedicated support, and industry expertise for your peace of mind. Discover our all-inclusive incorporation packages here.

3. Options for Indian Entrepreneurs

If you’re based in India and don’t hold a valid pass in Singapore, you can’t serve as the Resident Director yourself. Most foreign founders use one of these solutions:

• Nominee Resident Director service

  • Ensures your company meets ACRA’s requirement

  • Allows you to maintain 100% ownership and decision-making authority

  • Provides peace of mind so you can focus on operations, not compliance

This option is widely used by Indian entrepreneurs who want to enjoy the benefits of Singapore’s pro-business environment without relocating.

4. How Company Incorporation Services Can Help

While it’s possible to register a company on your own, most Indian founders choose professional company incorporation services in Singapore because they:

• Handle compliance correctly from day one – including appointing a Resident Director and preparing required documents.

• Save time – no need to navigate ACRA filings or figure out local legal terms on your own.

• Offer added services – such as nominee resident director appointments, corporate secretary support, and ongoing compliance monitoring.

• Reduce risks – ensuring your Singapore small business remains compliant and avoids penalties.

In short, incorporation services act like a trusted local guide, helping you start strong without unnecessary delays or missteps.

Summary

Yes, as an Indian entrepreneur, you must appoint a Resident Director to start a company in Singapore. This rule applies to every Singapore small business and is central to company incorporation services in Singapore.

If you don’t meet the requirement personally, the simplest way forward is to engage a Nominee Resident Director. By working with professional incorporation services, you’ll save time, reduce compliance risks, and be free to focus on growing your business in Singapore’s dynamic market.

Using a Company Incorporation Service as an extension of your team

Setting up a company in Singapore can be challenging, but with professional support, it can be simple, Counto’s mission is to support your new business, take away the complexities of compliance, and save you time and money throughout the year. Speak to us directly on our chatbot, email [email protected], or use our  contact form to get started.

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