Setting up a company in Singapore? One important step many founders overlook is choosing the right SSIC code.
Certain SSIC codes may trigger referrals to government agencies or require business licences before operations can begin. Selecting the wrong classification may delay incorporation, banking applications, or regulatory approvals.
This guide highlights common SSIC codes that may require referrals or licensing requirements under Singapore’s SSIC 2025 framework.
Looking for commonly used SSIC codes instead?
SSIC (Singapore Standard Industrial Classification) codes are identifiers used by government agencies to classify business activities.
Businesses registering in Singapore typically select:
Your selected codes can influence licensing requirements, regulatory referrals, grant eligibility, banking reviews, and future compliance obligations.
Many foreign founders choose Singapore for software companies, holding companies, consulting businesses, and regional headquarters. Choosing suitable SSIC codes early can help avoid delays during incorporation and banking setup.
Learn more about Singapore company incorporation for foreign founders →During incorporation, certain SSIC codes may trigger referrals to government agencies. Approval timelines may range from approximately 14–60 days.
| SSIC Code | Description |
|---|---|
| 64120 | Full banks |
| 64130 | Wholesale banks |
| 64140 | Merchant banks |
| 64150 | Finance companies (with deposit taking functions) |
| 64992 | Representative offices of foreign banks |
The Monetary Authority of Singapore (MAS) may liaise directly with applicants for additional information.
| SSIC Code | Description |
|---|---|
| 71111 | Architectural services |
| SSIC Code | Description |
|---|---|
| 66124 | Commodity and futures brokers and dealers (except gold) |
| SSIC Code | Description |
|---|---|
| 85310 | Secondary schools; combined primary and secondary schools |
| 85331 | Junior colleges and centralised pre-university institutes (post-secondary non-tertiary); combined secondary schools and post-secondary non-tertiary schools |
| 85401 | Polytechnics |
| 85402 | Universities |
| 85403 | Teachers' training institute |
| 85404 | Commercial schools offering tertiary education programmes |
| 85509 | Training courses n.e.c. |
Names containing "Academy", "College", "Institute", "Institution", "University", "National", or "Singapore" may be restricted.
| SSIC Code | Description |
|---|---|
| 69101 | Legal activities |
Law practices require licensing through LSRA e-Services before business registration.
| SSIC Code | Description |
|---|---|
| 68201 | Real estate agencies and valuation services |
| 68209 | Real estate activities on a fee or commission basis n.e.c. |
| SSIC Code | Description |
|---|---|
| 10611 | Rice milling |
| 10740 | Manufacture of macaroni, noodles, vermicelli and other related products |
| SSIC Code | Description |
|---|---|
| 94911 | Churches |
| 94912 | Mosques |
| 94913 | Buddhist/Taoist temples |
| 94914 | Hindu/Sikh temples |
| 94919 | Activities of religious organisations n.e.c. |
After incorporation, some business activities frequently require licences before operations begin.
Examples include:
Choosing the right SSIC code is more than an administrative exercise.
1. Choose your main business activity
Select the activity most closely aligned with what your business actually does.
2. Prioritise revenue-generating activities
If multiple activities exist, select those expected to contribute most significantly to revenue.
3. Provide a detailed business description if needed
If your business does not fit neatly into existing categories, BizFile allows additional explanation.
Counto helps founders understand SSIC requirements, incorporation requirements, and potential licensing obligations before registration.
If you need guidance, contact our team or book a meeting with our incorporation specialists.
Singapore offers a centralised licensing portal through GoBusiness, making it easier for businesses to identify and apply for the licences required for their activities.
To get started:
1. Select your licensing category
Choose the business activity that best matches your operations to view relevant licensing requirements.
2. Follow the application process
Different industries may have different application pathways:
Before applying, ensure your selected SSIC code accurately reflects your intended activities, as this may affect the licences and approvals shown.
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