Singapore is one of the easiest places in the world to start a business — but incorporation alone isn’t always enough. Depending on your industry, you may need additional business licenses or permits before you can legally operate.
Licensing ensures businesses in regulated industries meet Singapore’s strict standards for safety, quality, and compliance. Failing to get the right license can lead to delays, penalties, or even business closure.
So, what type of license might your company need? Let’s break it down.
ACRA Registration
Every company in Singapore must first register with the Accounting and Corporate Regulatory Authority (ACRA).
- For many industries — such as consulting, IT services, or trading — this step is enough to start operations.
But if you’re in a regulated sector, you’ll need extra licenses before you can launch.
Food & Beverage (F&B) Licenses
Running a restaurant, café, or food business? You’ll need approval from the Singapore Food Agency (SFA).
- Food Shop License – for restaurants, cafes, catering kitchens
- Food Stall License – for hawker stalls or kiosks
- Food Processing License – for food manufacturers or distributors
Expect hygiene inspections and safety certifications as part of the process.
Financial Services Licenses (MAS)
Finance is one of Singapore’s most heavily regulated industries. If your business deals with payments, investments, or financial advice, you’ll need approval from the Monetary Authority of Singapore (MAS).
- Payment Services License – for remittance, e-wallets, digital payments
- Capital Markets Services License – for securities, fund management
- Financial Adviser’s License – for advisory services
These licenses require strict compliance, reporting, and minimum capital.
Education & Training Licenses
If you plan to operate a school, training center, or tuition program, you’ll need approval from the Committee for Private Education (CPE) under SkillsFuture Singapore.
- Applies to: private schools, enrichment classes, vocational programs
Requirements: qualified teachers, approved curriculum, proper facilities
Healthcare & Wellness Licenses
Healthcare and wellness businesses are regulated by the Ministry of Health (MOH) or the Health Sciences Authority (HSA).
- Medical or Dental Clinic License
- Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) License
- Spa/Wellness Establishment License (if massage or therapeutic services are offered)
Expect professional qualifications and strict inspections.
Employment Agency License
Recruitment companies and employment agencies must be licensed by the Ministry of Manpower (MOM).
- Required for any business that places workers, both local and foreign
- EA licenses vary by scope of services
Must follow MOM’s rules for ethical recruitment practices
In Summary
Not every company in Singapore needs a special license. But if you’re entering regulated industries like food, finance, education, healthcare, or employment services, getting the right license is essential for compliance and smooth operations.
Choosing the right license is the first step to success. InvestinAsia can help you register and grow your business in Singapore — start today.
Tel: (+66) 2 1188 999
Email: hello@investinasia.co.th
Website: https://investinasia.co.th
