Must a Singapore Company Appoint a Company Secretary?

Yes. Under the Singapore Companies Act, every company must appoint at least one company secretary within 6 months of incorporation, and the secretary must reside in Singapore.

Key duties of a company secretary

• Maintaining statutory registers and minutes
• Making sure filings with ACRA are completed on time
• Helping to convene board and shareholders’ meetings
• Reminding and advising directors on compliance matters

Note that a sole director cannot also act as the company secretary. Most SMEs engage a professional corporate secretarial firm.

This article is general information only and does not constitute professional advice. Rules may change — please refer to the latest guidance from ACRA, IRAS and MOM, or contact us for advice on your situation.