In Singapore’s highly regulated and competitive business environment, understanding and complying with Goods and Services Tax (GST) obligations is essential. Whether you are launching a new business, scaling operations, or planning cross-border services, registering for GST ensures legal compliance and unlocks financial advantages like input tax credits. This blog will guide you through everything you need to know about GST Registration in Singapore who needs to register, applicable thresholds, current tax rates, and how to complete the registration process successfully.
What is GST in Singapore?
GST in Singapore is a broad-based consumption tax levied on the import of goods and almost all supplies of goods and services in the country. It functions similarly to VAT in other jurisdictions. The tax is charged to the end consumer, while businesses act as tax collectors and remit the GST collected to the Inland Revenue Authority of Singapore (IRAS).
Who Must Register for GST in Singapore?
GST registration is compulsory for businesses that meet or are projected to meet certain turnover thresholds. It can also be done voluntarily under specific conditions.
Compulsory GST Registration
Your business is required to register for GST under two conditions:
1. Retrospective Basis:
If your total taxable turnover exceeds SGD 1 million over the past 12 months, you must apply for GST Registration in Singapore by January 30 of the following year. GST will be effective from March 1.
2. Prospective Basis:
If you expect your taxable turnover to exceed SGD 1 million in the next 12 months, you must apply for GST registration within 30 days of that realization. Registration becomes effective 31 days from the date of the forecast.
Failing to register when required can lead to financial penalties and enforcement actions.
Voluntary GST Registration
If your turnover is below SGD 1 million, you may still voluntarily opt for GST Registration in Singapore. Voluntary registration is ideal if you want to:
- Claim input tax credits
- Enhance your credibility with clients and vendors
- Prepare for business growth or export expansion
Voluntarily registered businesses must remain registered for a minimum of two years and comply with all GST obligations.
GST Rate in Singapore
As of January 1, 2024, the current GST rate in Singapore is 9%. The GST rate has been revised in phases:
- 7% before January 1, 2023
- 8% from January 1, 2023
- 9% from January 1, 2024
GST applies to:
- Standard-rated supplies (charged at 9%)
- Zero-rated supplies (0% GST, such as exports or international services)
- Exempt supplies (e.g., sale or lease of residential properties, financial services)
Only standard-rated and zero-rated supplies qualify for input tax credit claims. Exempt and out-of-scope transactions do not allow GST input claims.
GST Registration Process in Singapore: Step-by-Step
The GST Registration process in Singapore is done through the IRAS myTax Portal and involves several steps. Whether you are applying under compulsory or voluntary conditions, here’s a detailed guide to help you through the process.
Step 1: Confirm Your Eligibility
Determine whether your business is liable for compulsory registration or if you are opting for voluntary registration. This decision influences the documents required and the effective date of GST registration.
Step 2: Prepare Required Documents
You will need the following:
- Business UEN (Unique Entity Number)
- ACRA business profile
- Profit & loss statements
- Revenue forecast (for prospective registration)
- Description of business activities and customers
- Completed IRAS e-Learning module (mandatory for voluntary registration, unless exempt)
Step 3: Submit the GST Registration Application
- Log in to the myTax Portal using your CorpPass or SingPass
- Go to e-Services > GST > Register for GST
- Complete the online form and upload required documents
Once submitted, IRAS will process the application, and you will receive a notification of approval.
Step 4: Receive GST Registration Number
If approved, you will receive a GST registration number and the effective date of registration. From this date, your business must start charging 9% GST on taxable supplies and comply with all GST filing obligations.
Post-Registration Responsibilities
After registering for GST in Singapore, businesses must meet specific ongoing compliance requirements to avoid penalties.
1. Issuing Tax Invoices
Once registered, you must issue GST-compliant invoices for all taxable supplies. These invoices must include:
- Your GST registration number
- Invoice number and date
- Customer details
- Description of goods/services
- GST amount charged
2. Filing GST Returns
Businesses are required to file GST returns quarterly (by default), although some may be assigned a monthly or half-yearly cycle.
Each return must include:
- Output tax collected (sales)
- Input tax paid (purchases)
- Net GST payable or refundable
Returns are submitted through the IRAS myTax Portal and payment is usually done via GIRO.
3. Record Keeping
You must maintain all GST records for at least 5 years, including invoices, receipts, credit notes, debit notes, and payment vouchers.
4. Voluntary De-registration
If you stop making taxable supplies or your turnover drops permanently below the threshold, you may apply for de-registration. Ensure all tax returns and payments are completed before doing so.
InvoiceNow: Preparing for Digital GST Compliance
Singapore is moving toward nationwide e-invoicing via InvoiceNow, based on the PEPPOL framework. While currently optional, it will become mandatory in phases for some businesses:
- From November 1, 2025, newly registered companies may be required to use InvoiceNow
- From April 1, 2026, it may become mandatory for all new GST registrants
It’s advisable to prepare your accounting systems for digital invoicing as part of your GST compliance strategy.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When undergoing the GST Registration process in Singapore, businesses often make avoidable errors that lead to delays or penalties. Common mistakes include:
- Failing to register on time when crossing the turnover threshold
- Providing incomplete documentation during application
- Incorrectly charging GST before the effective registration date
- Missing filing deadlines
- Claiming input tax on disallowed expenses (e.g., entertainment, fines)
- Failing to keep records for the mandatory retention period
Being proactive about compliance from day one can save your business from legal issues and financial penalties.
Penalties for Non-Compliance
IRAS enforces strict GST compliance. Non-compliance may result in:
- Late registration fines up to SGD 10,000
- 10% penalty on the amount of GST due from the date you should have registered
- Late filing penalties (initial 5%, plus 2% per month for up to 50%)
- Criminal prosecution for fraudulent claims or incorrect returns
Benefits of GST Registration
Even if you’re not required to register, there are strong reasons to consider voluntary GST registration:
- Input Tax Recovery: Offset business expenses
- Professional Image: Gain credibility with larger clients
- Growth Readiness: Prepare for future expansion or government tenders
- International Trade: Required when offering services to overseas clients
How Ease to Compliance Helps Your Business
At Ease to Compliance, our team understands the complexities involved in the GST Registration process in Singapore. We simplify it for you by:
- Evaluating your GST liability and registration eligibility
- Preparing all necessary documents for IRAS
- Assisting with e-learning modules and voluntary registration
- Setting up accounting software to manage GST-compliant invoicing
- Managing ongoing GST return filings and payment tracking
- Supporting you in InvoiceNow integration
Our firm ensures your GST journey is seamless, compliant, and audit-ready from day one. Contact us today to get started with expert assistance tailored to your business.
Conclusion
Getting your GST Registration in Singapore right is more than just a legal formality it’s a strategic step for your business. From understanding the thresholds and tax rates to mastering the registration process, compliance gives you credibility, financial control, and peace of mind.
Whether you’re registering for the first time or need help managing your GST obligations, having the right team by your side makes all the difference. Let Ease to Compliance be your trusted partner in navigating GST and staying ahead in Singapore’s evolving tax landscape.
FAQs on GST Registration in Singapore
Question 1. Can foreign companies register for GST in Singapore?
Yes, foreign companies can register for GST in Singapore if they make taxable supplies in the country. However, they must appoint a local GST agent to handle filing and compliance.
Question 2. What is the difference between zero-rated and exempt supplies under GST?
Zero-rated supplies are taxable at 0% and allow for input tax claims, such as exported goods or international services. Exempt supplies, like residential property leases or financial services, are not taxed and do not qualify for input tax recovery.
Question 3. How long does it take to complete the GST registration process?
The GST registration process typically takes 2 to 3 weeks after submission, depending on the completeness of the application and whether it’s compulsory or voluntary registration.
