Step-by-Step Guide to GST Registration for New Companies in Singapore

Starting a new company in Singapore means getting your legal and tax matters in order early. One key part of this is GST registration. If you’re not sure how it works or where to start, you’re in the right place.

In this guide, you’ll find simple steps to get through the process. You’ll also learn what documents to prepare, how to check if you need to register, and what to do once you’re done. This complete guide includes everything you need to know about Singapore company GST registration, whether you’re registering because you must or choosing to register voluntarily.

Let’s begin with the basics.

What Is GST?

GST stands for Goods and Services Tax. It is a tax on most goods and services sold in Singapore. If your company is GST-registered, you must charge GST on your sales and submit returns to IRAS.

In many countries, GST is also called VAT (Value Added Tax). When you buy a product or service from a GST-registered company, you are charged GST. Companies then pass the GST they collect to the government; they are essentially tax collection agents.

GST Rates

In Singapore, the GST rate is currently 9%, which is the rate you apply once you register. In earlier years, the rate had gradually increased from 7% to 8% and then to 9%.

GST registration is an essential part of company GST registration in Singapore, ensuring compliance with national tax rules and maintaining your business’s credibility.

Not every business must register for GST. You only need to do so when your yearly revenue crosses a certain amount or if you choose voluntary registration.

When Must You Register for GST?

Businesses must register for GST in two compulsory cases, and there is also an option for voluntary registration.

Compulsory Registration

1. Your Past Revenue Has Crossed S$1 Million

If your taxable turnover in the last 12 months was more than S$1 million, you need to register. This must be done within 30 days of crossing the threshold. Failure to do so may lead to penalties.

2. You Expect to Cross S$1 Million Soon

If you’re sure your turnover will exceed S$1 million in the next 12 months—supported by signed contracts, invoices, or upcoming orders—you must register early. IRAS may request documents to verify your projections.

This aligns fully with compulsory Singapore company GST registration requirements.

Voluntary Registration

You may register voluntarily even if your yearly turnover is below S$1 million. However, once registered:

• You must comply with GST rules for at least two years
• You must file GST returns on time every quarter
• You must maintain accurate records for at least five years
• You must handle obligations even if your business stops operating

Voluntary registration has benefits. For example, you can claim back GST on business expenses such as office equipment, rent, and setup costs. This can be especially useful for start-ups wanting to lower operating expenses.

What Do You Need to Apply?

Before applying for GST registration, prepare the following:

• A registered company in Singapore
• Access to CorpPass to log in to IRAS
• Proof of past or expected income
• Invoices, contracts, and agreements
• Tenancy or lease papers, if applicable
• Business profile or certificate of incorporation

If you are applying voluntarily, you may be asked to complete an e-learning course to show you understand GST rules.

This preparation is crucial for smooth company GST registration in Singapore, especially for new businesses.

GST Registration Process in Singapore

Step 1: Determine Which Type of Registration You Need

Decide whether you fall under:

• Compulsory retrospective registration
• Compulsory prospective registration
• Voluntary registration

This step is vital to ensure you meet your legal obligations under Singapore company GST registration rules.

Step 2: Check Your Sales

Add up your total taxable sales over the past 12 months. If it exceeds S$1 million, registration is mandatory. You can do this monthly or use IRAS’s online calculator.

Step 3: Take the E-Learning Course (If Required)

It is compulsory only for voluntary applications.

The course covers:

• GST rules and compliance
• Filing GST returns
• Common business errors
• Record-keeping requirements

Step 4: Log in Using CorpPass

Go to the myTax Portal and log in with CorpPass. Make sure the authorised person applying has full access rights to act on behalf of the company.

Step 5: Prepare Your Documents

You will need:

• Past and projected income records
• Service or sales contracts
• Invoices and bills
• Tenancy or office lease agreements
• GIRO form (for voluntary registration)
• e-Learning completion acknowledgement (if applicable)

IRAS may also request additional documents after your submission.

Step 6: Fill in the Application

Once logged into myTax Portal:

• Select “Register for GST”
• Complete the application form
• Upload the required documents
• Confirm all business details

For voluntary applicants, confirm your two-year commitment to remain registered.

This is a critical part of the Singapore company GST registration process.

Step 7: Wait for Approval

IRAS typically takes about 10 working days to process an application.

You will receive:

• Notification via SMS or email
• A confirmation letter with your GST registration number
• Your effective registration date

From this start date, you must charge GST and comply with filing obligations.

What To Do After Registration?

Once your registration is approved, you have ongoing responsibilities.

Update Your Invoices

• Your GST number must appear on all invoices
• Charge GST at 9% from your effective date

File Your GST Returns

GST returns are usually filed quarterly. These returns report:

• Output tax (GST you collect)
• Input tax (GST you pay on purchases)

This process is commonly referred to as GST filing in Singapore, which requires timely reporting to avoid penalties.

Keep Good Records

Store all invoices, receipts, financial statements, and supporting documents for five years. IRAS may request these during audits.

GST Registration for Small Businesses in Singapore

Many small companies wonder whether GST registration is worthwhile when they do not meet the income threshold.

Registering early may help because:

• You can claim GST on startup costs (equipment, software, rent)
• It adds credibility when dealing with GST-registered clients or suppliers
• Allows you to operate like larger firms with established processes

However, consider the workload. You must:

• Maintain accurate accounting records
• File GST returns on time
• Stay compliant with all rules

Can You Cancel Your GST Registration?

Yes, but only in certain situations:

• If your revenue falls below S$1 million
• If your business closes or ceases operations

You must clear any GST due before submitting a cancellation request through myTax Portal. Once approved, you’ll receive a notice from IRAS.

Tips to Keep Things Smooth

• Track your monthly revenue to avoid missing compulsory registration
• Keep organised records (digital copies are ideal)
• Use reliable accounting software to monitor GST
• When uncertain, consult IRAS or a tax professional

These steps help maintain compliance and smooth handling of GST filing in Singapore obligations.

In Summary

GST registration is an essential part of doing business in Singapore. For many companies, it’s mandatory once income reaches S$1 million. For others, voluntary registration offers strategic financial benefits.

Once registered, you must:

• Charge GST correctly
• File quarterly GST returns
• Maintain accurate records

Understanding the Singapore company GST registration process makes compliance much easier. Whether registering out of necessity or by choice, preparation is key.

If you need expert help with your company’s GST matters, it may be worth speaking to a specialist. GST compliance is serious, and guidance from experienced professionals ensures everything runs smoothly from day one.

Need Help?

WZWU & Partners offers practical guidance and support for businesses of all sizes. Whether you need help with GST matters, company GST registration in Singapore, or GST filing in Singapore, our experts ensure your business stays compliant and confident from the start.

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