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Elevate Your Business in Singapore: Nominee Director Services at CFO Accounts & Services

Singapore is renowned for its business-friendly environment and entrepreneurial edge, making it an attractive destination for entrepreneurs worldwide. Starting a business in Singapore can be an exciting and rewarding endeavor. However, the process of incorporating a company also requires some specialized expertise. Engaging a Nominee Director’s services is essential to any business venture’s success. The complexities involved in appointing a company's nominee director necessitate professional assistance to navigate legal and regulatory requirements effectively.

At CFO Accounts & Services, we provide professional and experienced Nominee Director services in Singapore. Our team is highly knowledgeable in all aspects of corporate governance and can help you ensure that your company always complies with the Companies Act.

What is a Nominee Director?

A nominee director is an individual appointed to act as a director of a company on behalf of another person or entity, fulfilling legal and regulatory requirements. In Singapore, the Companies Act mandates that all companies must have at least one director who is a permanent resident. This locally resident director ensures that the company complies with Singapore’s legal and regulatory obligations. By appointing a nominee director, foreign companies can meet these requirements without having to relocate an executive director to Singapore. The nominee director acts as the local representative, ensuring that the company adheres to all necessary regulations and maintains good standing with the corporate regulatory authority.

Qualifications of a Nominee Director Singapore

A nominee director is an individual appointed by a corporate shareholder or another person with a financial interest in a company to act as a representative on the board of directors. The role of the nominee director is usually to bear upon the instructions given by their appointing party, such as making decisions regarding significant investments and other strategic issues.

In Singapore, for example, specific qualifications must be met for an individual to be appointed as a nominee director. Singapore's Companies Act mandates these qualifications to ensure compliance with local laws, requiring every Singapore company to have at least one resident director.


According to the Companies Act, a nominee director must:

Key Responsibilities of a Nominee Director

Nominee Directors bear many responsibilities, from compliance and governance to administrative tasks. They share the same accountability level as a foreign director, who might also be a company shareholder. Here's what sets apart an experienced and qualified Nominee Director:

Extensive Experience

Certain qualities are essential When looking for a Singaporean company director. They should have a successful track record and experience in corporate governance. They should have served as a director in Singaporean companies before. They should also have a strong understanding of the regulatory environment in Singapore.

Integrity

When appointing a nominee director in Singapore, ensure they are honest, ethical, and understand corporate governance principles. They should also avoid conflicts of interest.

Record-Keeping

A director in a Singapore company plays a crucial role. They provide strategic guidance and leadership and oversee day-to-day business operations for success. They must be meticulous in managing finances, making decisions, and ensuring regulatory compliance.

Statutory Compliance

When choosing a nominee director for Singapore, ensuring they understand the country’s tax laws and mandatory paperwork is essential. Singapore has a highly competitive corporate tax system, so having a nominee director experienced in navigating this complex system is crucial for any business aiming to maximize profits.


The nominee director should understand the rules and regulations in Singapore’s corporate sector, including annual return filing and auditing compliance. Additionally, creating a Nominee Director Service Agreement is essential to clearly define the responsibilities, limitations, and terms of engagement for the nominee director, ensuring legal protection and regulatory compliance.

Timely Filings

The director ensures that all company documents are submitted promptly to regulatory bodies like ACRA and IRAS. The director in Singapore is responsible for submitting company documents to regulatory bodies and must be aware of applicable laws and guidelines. The director is responsible for filing returns and ensuring compliance with all laws. They must also report accurate financial information to IRAS per Singapore's tax regulations.

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Why Choose a Nominee Director?

Choosing a nominee director is an important decision for any Singapore business. A nominee director provides essential legal and operational services to the company and can help protect its directors from personal liability associated with running a business.

Having a nominee director can also help enhance the company’s reputation. This is because the nominated director’s name will be listed on all official documents instead of those of the company’s actual directors. This can benefit businesses that wish to remain anonymous, as their real directors will not be revealed.

Hiring a nominee director is an excellent way for foreign investors to set up a business in Singapore without staying in the city for extended periods. Not only do they provide expertise and guidance, but they also help protect foreign investors from potential legal issues.

CFO Accounts & Services is a trusted corporate service provider in Singapore, offering nominee director services to foreign companies. Our team of experts has extensive experience in corporate governance and regulatory compliance, ensuring that our clients’ companies are in good hands. We provide a comprehensive range of services, including nominee director agreements, company incorporation, and ongoing compliance support. By partnering with us, you can ensure that your company is compliant with Singapore’s laws and regulations, and that you have a reliable and trustworthy nominee director. Our commitment to excellence and client satisfaction makes us the ideal choice for businesses looking to establish a presence in Singapore.

How to Engage a Nominee Director Service in Singapore

If you are considering engaging a nominee director service in Singapore, here are the steps you should follow:

Research and Choose a Reputable Service Provider

Look for service providers with a good track record, positive reviews, and a deep understanding of Singapore's corporate laws and regulations.

Understand the Terms and Conditions

Before engaging a nominee director service, thoroughly review their terms and conditions. Ensure that you understand the service's responsibilities, fees, and duration.

Provide the Necessary Documentation

The service provider will require specific documents, such as a copy of the company's constitution, details of shareholders and directors, and any relevant agreements or contracts.

Sign the Agreement

Once you have provided the necessary documents and agreed to the nominee director agreement and terms, you must sign a contract with the service provider.

Maintaining Communication and Compliance

Open communication with the nominee director's powers and service provider is essential. Ensure you comply with all legal and reporting requirements to avoid complications.

While appointing a nominee director can be beneficial, there are potential risks involved. Nominee directors risk bearing responsibility for any serious breaches of the law by the company, regardless of whether they were directly liable for them.


Engaging a nominee director who is not informed of what is expected of them, or is incompetent in carrying out any responsibilities assigned to them, can lead to risks for the company. It is essential to approach the appointment of a nominee director with due diligence, considering factors such as their experience, qualifications, and ability to communicate effectively with the company.


Ensuring that the nominee director understands their role and responsibilities can mitigate potential risks and contribute to the company’s overall success.

How Our Nominee Director Service Helps You

Our Nominee Director Service offers the local presence required by Singapore law. The cost is adjustable based on the company's nature, size, and associated risks. We register as your Resident Director with ACRA, fulfilling local legal obligations and addressing day-to-day non-operational needs. This enables foreign companies to establish and run their businesses in Singapore seamlessly.

We are committed to ensuring our clients receive a reliable Singapore Presence service tailored to their needs. Contact us today to learn more about our Nominee Director Service.

A Nominee Director is responsible for fulfilling specific fiduciary duties: 

  1. Individuals are required to submit their Income Tax to the Inland Revenue Authority of Singapore (IRAS).
  2. The organization conducts Annual General Meetings (AGM).
  3. Submit Annual Returns (AR) to the Accounting and Compliance Regulatory Authority (ACRA).

Nominee Director Service is required for foreign-owned businesses to comply with Singapore's Government regulations. We are not involved in the company directors' management team or strategic planning. As the Nominee Director, we ensure the company submits annual returns punctually.

Ready to get started with a nominee director today?

Contact the CFO Accounts & Services Pte Ltd team to learn more about how to get started.

We look forward to helping you and your business.

FAQs on Nominee Director Singapore

  • What is a Nominee Director?

    A nominee director is an individual or a company appointed to act as a director on behalf of another party, such as a foreign company or individual. This type of appointment can benefit those who wish to remain anonymous or may not meet the local regulatory requirements to become a director.


    The Companies Act requires all companies to have at least two nominee shareholders and one resident director. The Accounting and Corporate Regulatory Authority (ACRA) must also approve other directors.


    When applying for approval of the nominee director, the company must submit a form to ACRA that explains the reasons for appointing a nominee director.


    The form must include information such as what type of business will be conducted, the nominee director's qualifications and experience, the terms of appointment, and a statement that explains why this individual was chosen to serve as a director.

  • Who is eligible to be a nominee director?

    Typically, individuals who are Singapore citizens or Permanent Residents with a permanent address in Singapore are eligible to be hired as a nominee director by a foreigner.


    An EP holder with a local residential address or address can only be appointed director after the company is successfully incorporated in Singapore. The company must exist first before it can sponsor any EP. To be a director in a Singapore company, an EP holder needs approvals from the Ministry of Manpower.


    If appointing an EP holder as a nominee director, do it within 6 months of company incorporation. After 6 months, legal penalties may apply for non-compliance with setting a resident director.


    If you are still looking for someone suitable to be your company's nominee director, corporate services firms often provide a paid nominee director service. With this service, they will assign an individual from their firm to act as your company's nominee director.

  • What is the Role of a Nominee Director in Singapore?

    A Nominee Director is a crucial component of your Singapore-based business, operating under the guidelines laid out by the Singapore Companies Act. Essentially, this individual is the official face of your company's operations, acting on behalf of stakeholders from other organizations. In legal terms, Nominee Directors hold responsibilities akin to resident directors, fulfilling similar duties and roles.

  • Can I cancel the nominee director service at any time?

    Yes, cancelling the nominee director service at any time is possible. However, legal and financial implications may depend on the situation and the contract terms. Before you cancel the service, consult with your company's lawyer and review all relevant documents to ensure that cancelling does not result in legal or financial complications. Additionally, make sure to communicate your decision to the

  • Can a nominated director run my company or sign documents?

    No, the nominee director cannot run your firm. As an exception, if the contract or invoice is acceptable to us, the nominated director may sign it for an extra cost.

  • Is the local nominated director actively involved in the management of my business?

    No, a local nominee director is not actively managing your business. The role of a nominee director is to provide your company secretary with a local presence as required by Singapore law and to fulfil legal requirements related to filing taxes, conducting annual general meetings, and filing yearly returns. Your company's board of directors will still make all business decisions.

  • How much does it cost to hire a Nominee Director in Singapore?

    The cost of hiring a nominee director in Singapore usually depends on the company's nature, size, and associated risks. Generally speaking, the cost can range from S$200 to over S$1,000 per month. Additionally, some companies may charge an additional fee for signing documents if necessary. When looking for a nominee director service provider, carefully research and review the contract terms before deciding.

  • Why do I require a Nominee for just six months if I am applying for an Employment Pass?

    Applying for an Employment Pass (EP) in Singapore may require a Nominee Director service for six months. This is because the Ministry of Manpower requires companies to have at least one director who is a resident of Singapore for the duration of the EP application process. Having a third local director or Nominee Director can provide evidence that your company has met this requirement.

  • What If I Don't Know Someone to Act as My Nominee Director?

    If you don’t know anyone who can act as your nominee director, there are a few different options that you can consider.


    The first option is to hire a professional director services company. These companies provide directors with the right qualifications and experience to meet the requirements of the Singapore Companies Act. With this service, you can be sure your nominee director will have all the necessary skills.


    Another option is to use a qualified individual from the company, such as a shareholder or employee. This can be an effective way to appoint someone you already know and trust and who has some familiarity with your company’s operations.


    Finally, you can look for a trusted business associate or friend to act as your nominee director. This individual should thoroughly understand a nominee director's legal and financial requirements.

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