Starting a travel agency in Singapore can be a rewarding business opportunity, especially with the city’s strong tourism ecosystem and global connectivity. However, it’s not just about planning holidays — it’s about meeting strict financial and licensing standards set by the Singapore Tourism Board (STB) and the Accounting and Corporate Regulatory Authority (ACRA).
Here’s a step-by-step guide to help Singapore small business owners establish a compliant and successful travel agency.
Before applying for a licence, your company must first be registered with the Accounting and Corporate Regulatory Authority (ACRA) through the BizFile+ portal.
You can register as:
Private Limited Company (Pte. Ltd.) – The most common choice for travel agencies due to its limited liability and professional image.
Sole Proprietorship – Easier to set up but carries unlimited personal liability.
Partnership – Suitable for shared ownership but all partners are legally responsible for obligations.
Once registered, you’ll receive a Unique Entity Number (UEN) — your company’s identification number for government and tax filings.
The Singapore Tourism Board (STB) sets clear financial thresholds for travel agencies to ensure financial stability and consumer protection.
Here’s what you need to maintain:
Niche Travel Agent Licence:
Minimum paid-up capital: SGD 50,000
Minimum net asset value: SGD 50,000
General Travel Agent Licence:
Minimum paid-up capital: SGD 100,000
Minimum net asset value: SGD 100,000
These financial levels must be maintained at all times. If your agency’s net assets fall below the threshold, STB may suspend or revoke your licence.
After incorporation, you must apply for your travel agent licence through the Singapore Tourism Board (STB).
Application Fee: SGD 200 (non-refundable)
Licence Fee: SGD 400 (valid for two years)
Processing Steps:
Submit your application online through STB’s licensing portal.
You can apply for in-principle approval first, allowing up to three months to finalise your office location and documentation.
Once all conditions are met, STB will issue the final approval.
Holding a valid licence is mandatory before advertising or selling travel-related services in Singapore.
✅ 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.
Every travel agency must appoint a Key Executive (KE) — the main point of contact for STB and the person responsible for daily operations and compliance.
Key Executive Criteria:
Must have managerial or relevant industry experience in travel operations.
Must be a Singapore Citizen, Permanent Resident, or Employment Pass holder.
Should have sufficient authority to make key business and compliance decisions.
Choosing an experienced and credible Key Executive ensures your agency meets STB’s operational standards.
To complete your licence approval, your agency must maintain an operational office with:
Visible business signage displaying your company name.
A tenancy agreement confirming your business premises.
Required supporting documents such as your company constitution, financial statements, and Key Executive’s credentials.
Having a physical office demonstrates operational readiness and builds trust with both regulators and clients.
Once licensed, ongoing compliance is crucial.
Maintain your financial thresholds and submit updated financial statements when requested by STB.
Renew your licence every two years before expiry.
Adhere to consumer protection laws and ensure transparent advertising of travel services.
Keep accurate accounting and tax records for filing with IRAS and ACRA.
Strong financial governance not only keeps your licence secure but also boosts your credibility with customers.
At Counto, we understand that meeting financial and regulatory obligations can be challenging — especially for new travel agencies. That’s why we’re here to make compliance effortless.
Our expert accountants help you maintain accurate financial statements, monitor your capital and net asset values, and handle your ACRA and IRAS filings to ensure you always meet STB’s licensing standards.
We combine smart automation with professional accounting services in Singapore to help small businesses like yours stay compliant, save time, and focus on what truly matters — growing your travel business.
Starting a travel agency in Singapore involves more than just creating travel packages — it requires financial discipline, proper licensing, and strong operational compliance. Register your business with ACRA, secure the appropriate STB licence, appoint a qualified Key Executive, and maintain your financial stability at all times.
With Counto’s professional accounting support, your Singapore small business can stay financially sound, compliant, and ready to deliver world-class travel experiences.
At Counto, we empower entrepreneurs with seamless business registration and expert company secretary services. Our all-in-one platform ensures your business stays ahead of Singapore’s regulations. Let’s simplify your business journey. Speak to us directly on our chatbot, email [email protected] or use our  contact form to get started.
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