Licences & Permits

Common questions about licences & permits in Singapore, answered by the team at E&H Corporate Services.

Do I need a license to start a Singapore business?Generally no — company incorporation covers most businesses. However, certain activities require licences before operations (e.g. financial services, food, healthcare, education, employment agencies, liquor). Check the GoBusiness LicenceAssist portal for your activity.What are business licenses and permits, and why are they important in Singapore?Business licenses and permits are legal authorisations required for certain types of businesses to operate in Singapore. These licenses and permits ensure that businesses comply with the applicable laws, regulations, and industry-specific standards, protecting the interests of the public and maintaining a fair and competitive business environment.What types of business licenses and permits can you assist with?We can assist with a wide range of business licenses and permits in Singapore, including food and beverage licenses, import and export licenses, employment agency licenses, financial services licenses, construction permits, and more. Our team will work closely with you to identify the specific licenses and permits required for your business and guide you through the application process.Which businesses need licenses in Singapore?Businesses in regulated sectors need licences — banking and payments, insurance, securities, food service, healthcare, childcare, education, private hire/transport, employment agencies, liquor, gambling, broadcasting and more.Which agency grants business licenses?Licences are issued by the relevant sector regulators — e.g. MAS (financial), MOM (employment agencies, work passes), SFA (food), MOH (healthcare), LTA (transport), IMDA (media/telecom) — coordinated through the GoBusiness portal.What are the licenses required for a Singapore company?Most companies need no licence beyond incorporation, but activity-specific licences apply in regulated sectors — financial services (MAS), employment agencies and work pass obligations (MOM), food service (SFA), healthcare (MOH), liquor (SPF), private hire and transport (LTA), and broadcasting/media (IMDA). Use GoBusiness LicenceAssist to identify licences for your activities.How do I determine which licenses and permits my business needs?Our team will conduct a thorough assessment of your business activities, industry, and relevant regulations to determine the specific licenses and permits required for your business to operate legally in Singapore. We will then provide you with a comprehensive list of the necessary licenses and permits, as well as guidance on how to obtain them.What is the process for applying for business licenses and permits?The process for applying for business licenses and permits in Singapore varies depending on the type of license or permit and the relevant regulatory authority. In general, the process involves submitting an application form, providing supporting documentation, and paying any applicable fees. Our team will guide you through each step of the application process, ensuring that your application is accurate and complete.How long does it take to obtain a business license?The process can vary depending on the state and the type of business entity. Generally, it can take anywhere from a few days to a few weeks to set up a business in the U.S.What are the additional licenses and permits required for a Singapore company?Beyond incorporation, you may need: GST registration, licences per your business activity, trademark protection, work pass quotas for foreign staff, and permits for imports/exports of controlled goods. Use GoBusiness LicenceAssist to identify yours.What are the requirements for an Employment Agency (EA) Licence?An employment agency must be licensed by MOM — requirements include: ACRA-registered business, at least one director who is a Singapore citizen or PR, payment of a S$5,000 security deposit, compliance with the EA Act and Code of Conduct, and renewal every 3 years.

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