Did you know that an approved name can be held for up to 120 days after filing online via ACRA’s BizFile+? This small window can make or break a launch plan.
The goal here is simple: you will understand the singapore company name reservation process from choosing a compliant business name through to preparing for registration. Expect a practical, step‑by‑step guide tailored to local rules and the official BizFile+ platform.
Why it matters: securing the right title boosts branding, builds credibility and avoids delays when you lodge your application. We focus on reservation first, then outline what happens next so you can move confidently towards starting business operations.
Core steps previewed include availability checks, SSIC selection, submission, fees, timelines and referrals to other authorities. You will also learn what particulars and activities to prepare and how to avoid common rejection triggers like identical or undesirable company name choices.
Key Takeaways
- Learn the online filing route via ACRA’s BizFile+ and the 120‑day hold.
- Follow clear steps: check availability, pick an SSIC, submit and pay.
- Prepare activity details and avoid identical or restricted names to reduce referral risk.
- This guide suits founders comparing sole proprietorship, partnership, LLP or private limited structures.
- Consider a licensed filing agent if you prefer expert help when starting business.
Understanding company name reservation in Singapore
Understanding how a proposed title is held before full registration saves time and reduces surprises.
What reservation means versus registration: Applying for a business name and then completing registration are two separate online transactions. First, you submit the proposed title on ACRA’s BizFile+. If it receives approval, the title is held so you can finish the legal registration later. Holding the title does not yet make the entity operational.
Who manages approvals
ACRA evaluates applications via the BizFile+ portal. When there is no clash with existing entries and no referral is needed, approval can be near‑instant online.
How long a reserved title lasts
An approved entry is reserved for 120 days. That window gives you time to complete incorporation or registration. After those days lapse, the title is released and becomes available to others.
Practical differences and timing
Think of “reserved” as a short hold; “registered” means you are legally operating under that entity. Some choices trigger extra checks and extend timelines. Simple availability checks, correct SSIC selection and accurate submission help speed up approval and the move to full registration.
For guidance on packages that support the next steps, see our registration support options.
Before you apply: choosing a compliant, brand-ready business name
Good branding starts with a title that clears official checks and appeals to customers.
ACRA approval criteria: unique, not identical, not undesirable
Keep it distinct. The proposed title must be clearly different from existing or reserved entries and must not mislead the public.
Avoid vulgar, obscene or offensive phrasing. These are routinely refused. Also avoid titles that imply a regulated licence unless you hold it.
Restricted and prohibited terms to avoid
Certain terms are sensitive or blocked. Examples include names linked to national institutions or those that suggest government endorsement. Using a term like Temasek can trigger refusal or referral by authorities.
Sectors such as healthcare, finance and education face extra scrutiny. Match your wording to the actual services you provide to reduce queries.
Practical checks: domains, social handles and first impressions
Before filing, check domain availability (for example, .sg) and social handles for consistency. A coherent online presence protects your first impression and stops others from capitalising on your brand.
Trade mark considerations and where to check
Even if a title is reservable, it may conflict with an existing trade mark. Review IPOS Digital Hub for similar marks before you commit.
A registered trade mark runs for 10 years from the application date and is renewable. This affects long-term branding and potential rebrand costs.
| Check | Why it matters | Tool |
|---|---|---|
| Uniqueness | Prevents identical refusals and confusion | ACRA/BizFile+ search |
| Trade marks | Avoid legal conflict and costly rebranding | IPOS Digital Hub |
| Domain & social | Secures online identity and first impressions | GoBusiness e-Adviser, domain registrars |
Tip: Balance compliance with memorability. Choose titles that are distinctive, easy to say and reflect the market you serve. These checks reduce rejection, rework and delays later in the application workflow.
How to check availability on ACRA BizFile+ (and other tools)
Begin with a targeted search on BizFile+ so you can spot potential conflicts early. A clear search helps you decide whether to file an application or revise your idea.
Searching for similar business names and reserved entries
Use BizFile+ to search exact matches and obvious variants. Look for spacing, punctuation and common misspellings that ACRA treats as confusingly similar.
Similar covers look‑alike wording, phonetic variants and minor spelling changes. These can block approval even if not identical.
What to do if your preferred option is taken
If the entry is unavailable, consider adding a distinctive word, a clear descriptor, or a different brand element that keeps your positioning intact.
Run the shortlisted options through GoBusiness e‑Adviser to check domain and social handle availability in one workflow. This saves time and aligns your online identity.
- Search BizFile+ for exact and variant matches.
- Use GoBusiness e‑Adviser for domains and usernames.
- Prepare 2–3 alternates in case of referrals or refusals.
- If restricted words are used, expect approval to take days longer and have backups ready.
| Check | Why it matters | Next step |
|---|---|---|
| Exact match | Direct conflict blocks approval | Choose alternate wording |
| Similar variants | Can be treated as confusingly similar | Modify spelling or add distinctive terms |
| Domains & social | Secures online presence and branding | Use GoBusiness e‑Adviser to validate |
Note: An available entry can be approved immediately, but if referred it may take 14 to 60 days for review. Availability checks do not guarantee acceptance; final approval rests with ACRA’s assessment.
Step-by-step: the singapore company name reservation process on BizFile+
A tidy submission on BizFile+ starts with preparing the essentials before you log in. Gather your proposed company name, a clear description of main business activities and accurate particulars of owners, partners or directors.
Information you’ll need
Prepare: the exact company name text, an activity summary that matches the SSIC classification, and ID or contact details for relevant parties. Keep two alternate names ready.
Selecting and declaring activities
Be precise. Declare main activities that reflect what you will realistically offer. Mismatches can trigger queries or referral to authorities and delay approval.
Filing yourself vs using an agent
You may submit the application yourself or engage a registered filing agent such as a law firm, accounting firm or corporate secretarial firm. Founders often hire a filing agent for speed, cross‑border convenience or compliance help. Note their fees are separate from the government charge.
Payment and confirmation
The registered filing fee is S$15. After payment, BizFile+ issues a submission reference and confirmation screen. Save screenshots and the reference for follow‑up and any registered filing queries.
- Log in to BizFile+.
- Start the name application and enter your company name.
- Enter activities and particulars; pay S$15 and save confirmation.
Fees, timelines and what to expect after submission
Know the fees and typical wait times before you file so you can plan launches and contracts.
Application fee: the standard filing charge is S$15. If you opt for an Alternate Address service, expect an extra S$40 for each alternate address provided as a paid service.
Typical processing time when the name is available
If there is no clash and no referral is triggered, approval is often issued immediately. Approved immediately means the portal confirms the entry within minutes so you can proceed to registration without delay.
When it may take longer: review by referral authorities
Some applications are referred to external authorities for checks. These reviews can take 14 to 60 days to complete. Regulated sectors and restricted terms commonly fall into this bucket because authorities must verify licences and suitability.
Practical expectations and how to reduce risk
- Build a buffer of at least a few weeks if you have a launch, contract signing or marketing tied to approval.
- After submission you will see status updates and may receive requests for clarification; respond promptly to avoid delays.
- Referral or review by referral authorities is not a rejection — it is an extra verification step by relevant authorities.
- Prepare supporting materials in advance (business description, licences) to speed any checks and reduce back‑and‑forth.
Singapore Standard Industrial Classification (SSIC): choosing the right code
Selecting the correct SSIC code makes official paperwork and future licences much smoother.
The SSIC is the national standard used to classify business activities. Each entry has a five‑digit code and a clear description. ACRA requires these codes when you submit a proposed title so your primary activity is recorded consistently across government systems.
How to pick the most suitable SSIC
Start with the activity that will generate most revenue and match it to a precise 5‑digit code. Avoid broad or vague selections; they can trigger referrals or create compliance friction later when applying for licences or opening bank accounts.
Use the GoBusiness e‑Adviser or the official SSIC list to confirm wording and code. Ensure the description you choose reflects actual services or products you will provide.
Practical tips and downstream impact
- Prioritise one main activity and add secondary codes only if truly needed.
- Be specific: accurate industrial classification reduces review time and future queries.
- Think ahead: the selected label appears in licences, tax filings and government reporting.
For assistance with filing and code selection, consider a professional filing option such as the linked company registration & corporate secretary service to confirm SSIC choices and wording before you submit.
Referral authorities: when extra approvals are required
Specific industry words can send an application to specialist reviewers beyond ACRA. These referral authorities check that regulated terms and activity claims are accurate and do not mislead the public.
Examples that commonly trigger checks
Terms like “hospital”, “clinic”, “surgery” or “healthcare” usually prompt a Ministry of Health review. Words associated with finance or education — for example “bank”, “insurance” or “university” — can require other government clearance.
How reviews affect timeframes
When a referral is made, expect longer waits. Rather than instant confirmation, the review can take 14 to 60 days depending on complexity and the authority involved.
Reduce back-and-forth with better preparation
- Clear service description: state exact activities and scope.
- Evidence: include licences, qualifications or accreditation if available.
- Precise roles: list responsible persons and local contacts.
ACRA routes the case but the final approval rests with the external authorities. Engage advisers — including accounting and corporate services firms — to prepare accurate details and shorten review cycles.
Eligibility and prerequisites by business structure
Each business structure brings distinct eligibility checks that affect who can act as an owner or director.
Sole proprietorships and partnerships
All owners must be at least 18 years old and up to date with MediSave contributions. This requirement can block progress if arrears exist.
Owners must be citizens, permanent residents or hold valid EntrePass or Employment Pass status. Employment Pass holders must secure a MOM Letter of Consent (LOC) before filing.
Limited partnerships
LPs require at least one General Partner and one Limited Partner. General Partners have management liability while Limited Partners have capped liability.
If none of the General Partners reside locally, the structure must appoint a local manager to meet statutory expectations and support filings.
Limited liability partnership
A limited liability partnership requires a minimum of two partners. At least one local manager must reside in the jurisdiction to handle day‑to‑day compliance.
This is important for overseas founders: without a resident manager, you must appoint someone who can act on behalf of partners.
Companies
For incorporation, you must least one locally eligible director. In practice, there must be at least one director and one shareholder recorded at the point of registration.
The locally eligible director can be a citizen, PR, EntrePass holder or an Employment Pass holder with an LOC. Ensure identity and role particulars are ready to upload.
When foreigners need to engage a registered filing agent
Foreign applicants who cannot meet local eligibility or SingPass access need engage a registered filing agent. A filing agent simplifies registered filing and submits on behalf of business owners and directors.
Why this matters: incomplete eligibility — for example, missing LOCs or MediSave arrears — can stop approval even when the name is acceptable. Prepare IDs and role details for all partners, directors and authorised representatives to avoid delays.
After your name is approved: next steps to start your business
After approval arrives, prepare to finalise filings so the reserved entry becomes a legal entity. Reservation alone does not create the entity; you must complete registration on BizFile+ to start trading.
Proceeding from approval to registration on BizFile+
Log in to BizFile+ and select the registered title. Confirm your intended commencement date, local address and ownership or management particulars. For a private entity, finalise share capital and your constitution before you submit.
What you receive after registration
On successful registration you will be issued a Unique Entity Number (UEN). A free Business Profile is emailed to the filer and is often requested by banks and counterparties for onboarding.
Fees, timing and guarding the reserved title
Approved entries are held for 120 days. If you do not register within that window the entry is released and someone else may reserve business use of it.
- Business (sole proprietorship/partnership): S$100 for one year or S$160 for three years — choose the years that suit your plan.
- LLP: one‑time S$100.
- Local company: one‑time S$300.
Plan your start date to align contracts, leases and supplier onboarding so your new business can operate smoothly from day one. Track the reservation date and complete registration promptly to reduce brand risk and speed operational readiness.
For guidance on reserving titles before you register, see the official guide to reserve business.
Conclusion
A clear wrap-up helps founders move from idea to trading with fewer delays.
Start by selecting a compliant company name and checking availability. Choose the correct SSIC for your main activity, submit the application, then complete registration within the hold period so your business can begin operations.
Keep compliance front of mind: avoid identical or undesirable choices and be cautious with restricted terms that may trigger a referral to referral authorities. Treat the filing as both a branding and a legal step to reduce queries.
If an application is rejected you may appeal with supporting documents — keep records of your rationale and evidence to strengthen any case. Consider professional help, including accounting or corporate services, for regulated sectors or complex ownership situations.
Shortlist options, run checks, prepare particulars, submit, monitor status and then register. Act promptly to start trading confidently.
FAQ
What is the difference between name reservation and business registration?
Who manages approvals and where do I apply?
How long does a reserved title last and when is it released?
What criteria does ACRA use to approve a proposed trading title?
Which terms are restricted or prohibited when choosing a title?
What practical checks should I do before submitting a request on BizFile+?
Should I check trade marks before reserving a title?
How do I check availability on BizFile+ and other tools?
What if my preferred title is already taken?
What information do I need to submit on BizFile+ for reservation?
How should I select the right SSIC code for my activities?
Can I submit the application myself or do I need a registered filing agent?
How much does it cost to reserve and how long does approval usually take?
When will referral authority reviews be triggered and how do they affect timelines?
What supporting details help speed up referral reviews?
What are the eligibility rules for different business structures?
When must foreigners engage a registered filing agent?
What happens after my title is approved and I register the entity?
How long should I keep to the intended commencement date?
Dean Cheong is a Singapore-based commercial growth architect and CEO of VOffice, known for helping B2B companies turn fragmented sales efforts into predictable revenue systems. He specializes in sales process optimisation, CRM-driven visibility, and market entry strategy, combining execution discipline with a strong academic grounding in business banking and finance from Nanyang Technological University. His focus is on building repeatable, data-backed growth frameworks that companies can scale with confidence.