Singapore Business Licensing

Capital Markets Services Licence (CMS Licence)

The Capital Markets Services (CMS) Licence, issued by the Monetary Authority of Singapore (MAS), is required for companies conducting regulated activities in Singapore’s capital markets. This includes activities such as fund management, securities dealing, corporate finance advisory, and leveraged foreign exchange trading. Companies applying for the licence must meet MAS requirements relating to minimum capital, management experience, compliance systems, and risk controls.

Payment Institution Licence

The Payment Institution Licence, regulated by MAS, is required for businesses providing payment services such as digital payment token services, money transfer services, merchant acquisition, e-wallet services, and payment processing platforms. Depending on the business scale, companies may apply for either a Standard Payment Institution licence or a Major Payment Institution licence under the Payment Services Act.

Employment Agency Licence

Companies providing recruitment or manpower placement services in Singapore must obtain an Employment Agency Licence from the Ministry of Manpower (MOM). This licence is required for agencies that recruit employees for local companies or facilitate employment for foreign workers. Applicants must appoint qualified personnel and meet regulatory compliance standards set by MOM.

Travel Agent Licence

Businesses offering travel-related services such as tour packages, hotel booking arrangements, or ticketing services must obtain a Travel Agent Licence issued by the Singapore Tourism Board (STB). The licence ensures that travel businesses operate responsibly and comply with industry standards to protect consumers.

Food Shop Licence

Restaurants, cafés, catering companies, and other food establishments must obtain a Food Shop Licence issued by the Singapore Food Agency (SFA). The licence ensures compliance with food safety regulations, hygiene standards, and operational requirements before food-related businesses can begin operations.

Importer / Exporter Licence

Companies involved in international trade of controlled goods may need an Importer or Exporter Licence, issued through Singapore Customs and relevant authorities. This licence is commonly required for businesses dealing with regulated products such as food, chemicals, telecommunications equipment, and medical devices.

Telecommunications Dealer’s Licence

Businesses importing, selling, or distributing telecommunications equipment in Singapore must obtain a Telecommunications Dealer’s Licence from the Infocomm Media Development Authority (IMDA). This licence applies to companies dealing with products such as mobile phones, network equipment, and wireless communication devices.

Environmental & Waste Management Licence

Companies involved in waste collection, recycling, or environmental management services may require licences issued by the National Environment Agency (NEA). These licences regulate activities such as general waste collection, toxic industrial waste handling, and environmental services operations.

Healthcare Establishment Licence

Businesses providing medical or healthcare-related services must obtain a Healthcare Services Licence under the Healthcare Services Act, regulated by the Ministry of Health (MOH). This licence applies to clinics, medical laboratories, telemedicine providers, and other healthcare establishments.

Insurance Broker Licence

The Insurance Broker Licence, issued by the Monetary Authority of Singapore (MAS), is required for companies providing insurance brokerage services in Singapore. Insurance brokers act on behalf of clients to advise on insurance coverage, source policies from insurers, and manage insurance placement.

Companies applying for this licence must meet MAS regulatory requirements, including minimum capital requirements, professional competence of key personnel, compliance frameworks, and risk management controls. Licensed insurance brokers are authorised to advise on and arrange insurance policies for corporate and individual clients.

Trust Company Licence

The Trust Company Licence, issued by the Monetary Authority of Singapore (MAS), is required for companies providing trust administration services. Trust companies act as trustees for structures used in wealth planning, estate management, and family office arrangements. Applicants must meet MAS requirements relating to capital adequacy, compliance frameworks, and experienced management personnel.

Moneylender Licence

Companies providing lending services outside the traditional banking system must obtain a Moneylender Licence from the Ministry of Law (MinLaw) under the Moneylenders Act. This licence allows businesses to legally provide loans to individuals or businesses within the regulatory limits established by Singapore law.

Security Agency Licence

Businesses providing security guard services, surveillance services, or security consultancy must obtain a Security Agency Licence issued by the Singapore Police Force (SPF). Applicants must demonstrate proper management structures, trained security personnel, and compliance with industry regulations.

Real Estate Agency Licence

Companies operating property brokerage or real estate agency services must obtain a Real Estate Agency Licence from the Council for Estate Agencies (CEA). The licence allows companies to conduct property brokerage, leasing services, and real estate advisory activities in Singapore.

Telecommunications Service Provider Licence

Companies providing telecommunications infrastructure, network services, or internet services must obtain a Telecommunications Service Provider Licence issued by the Infocomm Media Development Authority (IMDA). This licence applies to operators offering connectivity services, network infrastructure, or telecommunications platforms.

Warehouse / Controlled Goods Licence

Businesses storing or trading certain controlled goods such as chemicals, petroleum products, or strategic goods may require special licences issued by Singapore Customs or relevant government agencies. These licences regulate the storage, handling, and export of controlled goods.

Medical Device Importer / Wholesaler Licence

Companies importing or distributing medical devices in Singapore must obtain licences from the Health Sciences Authority (HSA). This licence allows companies to legally import, distribute, and sell regulated medical devices within Singapore’s healthcare market.

Alcohol Wholesale Licence

Companies importing or distributing alcoholic beverages must obtain a Liquor Licence issued by the Singapore Police Force. Different licence classes apply depending on whether alcohol is sold wholesale, retail, or served in food establishments.