Here’s What You Need to Know About BizFile

Introduction:

Starting a business in Singapore is one of the most seamless processes globally, thanks to the country’s pro-business policies and digital infrastructure. A critical part of this infrastructure is BizFile+, the online compliance portal maintained by Singapore’s Accounting and Corporate Regulatory Authority (ACRA). Whether you are incorporating a new company, filing annual returns, or updating company details, BizFile+ is the one-stop platform for all statutory filings. Here's everything you need to know to get started.

BizFile (Online companies compliance portal):

Background-

BizFile+ is the official online platform developed and maintained by ACRA under the ACRA Act. Introduced in 2004, BizFile+ revolutionized corporate compliance by replacing physical filings with digital submissions. It eliminated the need for in-person visits to the Registrar of Companies, thus saving time and streamlining business processes.

All Singapore-registered companies are mandatorily required to use BizFile+ for filing statutory documents. These include:

• Incorporation documents

• Annual returns

• Notices of changes in directors, shareholders, or registered office

• Share capital updates, and more

The portal also serves as the official interface between businesses and the government for corporate regulatory matters.

How to register in BizFile+?

At the Time of Incorporation:

When incorporating a company in Singapore, the following information is submitted through BizFile+:

• Registered office address

• Particulars of directors, company secretary, and shareholders

• Shareholding structure

• Business activities

Once incorporated, the company is issued a Unique Entity Number (UEN) and can apply for a CorpPass account — the corporate digital identity for transacting with government agencies online.

CorpPass is essential for:

• Filing annual returns

• Updating company information

• Applying for licences and permits

• Submitting tax returns (with IRAS)

Individual Registration (For Personal Access):

Individuals such as company directors, secretaries, and shareholders who need access to BizFile+ must authenticate using their SingPass — a secure login system for Singapore residents. Foreign directors who do not have SingPass must appoint a registered filing agent (e.g., a corporate services provider) to handle filings on their behalf.

Features of BizFile+ :

i.           Centralised compliance platform:Acts as a one-stop portal for over 300 digital services related to company compliance and regulatory filings.

ii.         Online Company Incorporation:Allows quick and efficient incorporation of companies, partnerships, and sole proprietorships.

iii.       Real-Time Company Updates:Enables updates to company particulars, including:

o   Directors and officers

o   Registered address

o   Share capital and shareholder changes

iv.       Lodgement of Charges: Companies can register, modify, or discharge charges (e.g., mortgages or security interests) when assets are pledged for loans or credit facilities. Once lodged, the charge details are publicly accessible, which helps creditors, investors, and other stakeholders assess the company's financial obligations and encumbrances.

v.         Publicly Accessible Information: BizFile+ allows users to purchase publicly available corporate documents, which are essential for legal due diligence, financial assessments, and investment decisions, especially when acquiring a company or buying a stake. These include: Business Profile, Incorporation Documents, Shareholding and Directorship data, Financial statements etc.

How ProLead Can Assist?

Navigating incorporation procedures can be complex, especially for foreign investors or first-time business owners. ProLead provides comprehensive support, including:

• Company registration and compliance with ACRA

• Provision of a Nominee Director

• Local registered office address

• Appointment of a Corporate Secretary

Assistance with bank account opening and post-registration compliance

Conclusion:

BizFile+ is an essential tool for anyone doing business in Singapore. It offers a transparent, efficient, and paperless way to meet all corporate compliance obligations under the law. Whether you're starting a new company or managing a growing enterprise, understanding how to use BizFile+ effectively is a foundational step to staying compliant and ensuring smooth business operations in Singapore.

By leveraging the full potential of BizFile+, you can focus more on scaling your business while staying confidently within the boundaries of Singapore’s regulatory framework.