Get the new name approved by ACRA, pass a shareholders' special resolution, then file the change; the new name takes effect immediately upon approval. Changing a company name takes three steps. First, submit a name application in ACRA BizFile for the intended new name, confirming it is not already taken and does not contain restricted or sensitive words (the latter may need referral to the relevant authority). Second, convene shareholders to pass a special resolution (at least 75% of voting rights) approving the change. Third, file the name change with ACRA; once approved, the new name takes effect immediately and ACRA issues a notice of change. After the change, the company must update its seal, signage, letterhead, invoices, bank accounts, contracts and licences with the new name — the registration number (UEN) stays the same. Although the process is straightforward, synchronising all external information afterwards is significant work, so prepare a checklist of what needs updating.
