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Accounting and Corporate Regulatory Authority

Step 4.1: Choosing a company type

Compare seven Singapore company types and choose the right one based on key features and recommendations.

Last updated 3 February 2026

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Private companies
Public companies

Private companies

Keep your company ownership private. You cannot sell shares to the public, but you have fewer reporting requirements.

Four types of private companies

Company type

Details

Exempt private company (Pte Ltd)

  • Best for: Small businesses, startups

  • Max shareholders: 20 individuals

  • Share capital: Required

Private company limited by shares (Pte Ltd)

  • Best for: Medium businesses

  • Max shareholders: 50 individuals or corporate entities

  • Share capital: Required

Unlimited private company (Unlimited)

  • Share capital: Optional

Unlimited exempt private company

  • Max shareholders: Up to 20 individuals

Tip: Most small business owners choose a private limited (Pte Ltd) company for the best protection and simplicity. The most popular options are exempt private company and private company limited by shares.

Public companies

Access public investment markets. You can sell shares to the public, but must meet strict reporting requirements.

Three types of public companies

Company type

Details

Public company limited by shares (Ltd)

  • Best for: Large companies

  • Max shareholders: No limit for individuals or corporations

  • Additional requirements: Must register a prospectus with MAS before selling shares.

Note: If the company fails, shareholders only lose the money they invested. Their personal assets are safe.

Public company limited by guarantee (Ltd)

  • Best for: Charities, non-profits

  • Max shareholders: No shareholders.

  • Share capital: None

Note: Members do not buy shares. Instead, they promise to pay a set amount if the company fails. This amount is set in the company constitution

Unlimited public company

  • Max shareholders: No limit for individuals or corporate entities