Registering a trade name is one of the first crucial steps when setting up or branding a business in Singapore. While the process is relatively straightforward, it involves important considerations and regulatory compliance. This guide breaks down everything you need to know to successfully register a Trade Name in Singapore, from selecting a name to submitting it for approval, and even protecting it through trademark registration.
What Is a Trade Name in Singapore?
A Trade Name in Singapore refers to the name under which a business operates and is known to the public. It may or may not be the same as the legal name of the business entity. For example, your legal name might be “ABC Holdings Pte Ltd,” but you may wish to operate under the name “ABC Consulting.”
If the name you intend to use is different from the company’s registered name, you must register it officially with the Accounting and Corporate Regulatory Authority (ACRA). This ensures compliance with Singapore’s business regulations and allows you to use the name legally in your business dealings.
Why Is Trade Name Registration Important?
Registering a trade name offers several key benefits:
- Legal Protection: It ensures no other business can operate under the same name in Singapore.
- Brand Recognition: A unique trade name builds your brand identity.
- Banking and Contracts: Many financial institutions and clients require proof of trade name registration for agreements.
- Regulatory Compliance: It’s illegal to use a name that is not officially registered.
By registering a trade name, you enhance your business’s credibility and trust with customers and stakeholders.
Trade Name vs Company Name vs Trademark
Before proceeding, it’s important to understand the distinction:
- Company Name: This is the legal name registered with ACRA during incorporation.
- Trade Name: The name your business operates under, which may differ from the registered company name.
- Trademark: A separate form of protection that legally defends your brand elements like logos, slogans, and product names from being copied.
Registering a Trade Name in Singapore gives you the right to use it for business purposes, but it does not grant exclusive ownership. For full legal protection, consider registering it as a trademark.
Who Needs to Register a Trade Name in Singapore?
You must register a trade name if:
- You operate under a name that is different from your legal business name.
- You are a sole proprietor or partnership looking to brand your business distinctly.
- You plan to use the name on public-facing platforms, signage, or marketing materials.
Private limited companies must also register if they want to use an alternate name for branding.
Pre-Registration Checklist
Before applying for a Trade Name in Singapore, complete the following:
1. Name Availability Check
Check if your desired trade name is available using the name search tool on the BizFile+ portal. Avoid names that are:
- Already in use
- Too similar to existing business names
- Contain restricted or offensive words
2. Follow ACRA Naming Guidelines
Make sure your trade name:
- Doesn’t mislead the public
- Is not obscene or vulgar
- Doesn’t include words like “bank,” “finance,” or “Temasek” unless special approval is obtained
3. Define Business Activity
You’ll be required to select appropriate SSIC (Singapore Standard Industrial Classification) codes that define your business’s main and secondary activities.
How to Apply for a Trade Name in Singapore
Step 1: Log in to BizFile+
Access BizFile+, ACRA’s online portal. Log in using your SingPass or CorpPass credentials.
Step 2: Submit Name Application
Navigate to “Name Application” and input the desired trade name. You’ll also need to:
- Provide business activity details
- Attach supporting documents (if necessary)
- Pay a non-refundable fee of SGD 15
Step 3: Await Approval
Name approval is typically immediate for standard cases. If your application involves sensitive words or industries (e.g., legal, education, healthcare), it may be referred to relevant government authorities for further vetting, which can take up to 14–60 days.
Step 4: Reserve the Name
Once approved, the name will be reserved for 120 days. You must complete the entity registration (such as a sole proprietorship, partnership, LLP, or company) within this period. If not, the reservation will lapse, and the name becomes available to others.
Step 5: Complete Business Registration
Complete your business registration using the approved trade name:
- Sole Proprietor/Partnership: Register directly using the approved name.
- Company: Incorporate under the name or use it as a “trading as” (T/A) name.
Post-Registration Steps
Once your trade name is registered:
- Update your business bank accounts and government licenses.
- Use the name consistently on invoices, websites, and marketing materials.
- Display the name prominently at your business premises.
If your trade name is different from your company name, you may include both in official documentation for clarity.
Can You Have Multiple Trade Names?
Yes. A business can register multiple trade names as long as each name:
- Is distinct
- Has a clear link to the legal entity
- Is approved by ACRA
Each name incurs a separate application and fee.
Protecting Your Trade Name with a Trademark
Registering a Trade Name in Singapore does not prevent others from using a similar name unless you trademark it.
Why Trademark Your Trade Name?
- Prevents others from using or imitating your name
- Builds brand equity
- Gives you legal standing in disputes
How to Trademark a Name in Singapore
- Search for existing trademarks via IPOS
- Classify your business using the NICE classification
- File the trademark online at IPOS
- Wait for examination and approval (can take 6–12 months)
- Maintain the trademark by renewing every 10 years
Trademark registration starts at SGD 280 per class.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
1. Not Verifying Name Availability
Many applicants waste time applying for names that are already taken or restricted. Always do a thorough name search first.
2. Letting Name Reservations Expire
Once approved, you only have 120 days to act. If you miss this window, the name becomes available to others.
3. Misusing Trade Name
Using a trade name before formal registration can lead to compliance issues and penalties.
4. Confusing Trade Name with Trademark
Don’t assume your trade name is protected from copying unless it’s trademarked. Registration with ACRA alone doesn’t provide full IP rights.
Renewal and Maintenance
Registered trade names don’t need to be renewed independently. As long as your business entity remains active, the trade name stays valid. If you cease operations or deregister your business, the trade name will lapse automatically.
To make any changes like editing spelling or switching to another name you must file an amendment via BizFile+ and pay a nominal fee.
Trade Name for Foreigners and EP Holders
Foreigners and Employment Pass (EP) holders cannot register a trade name directly. You must engage a registered filing agent (like a corporate secretarial firm) to act on your behalf.
Additionally, certain industries like education, finance, and healthcare require approval from the relevant ministry or statutory board before name approval is granted.
How Ease to Compliance Can Help
At Ease to Compliance, our firm simplify the entire process of registering a Trade Name in Singapore. Our services include:
- Conducting availability checks and name strategy
- Preparing and submitting the name application via BizFile+
- Managing referrals with government agencies for restricted names
- Assisting with full business registration (Sole Prop, LLP, Company)
- Advising on trademark protection with IPOS
Whether you’re a local entrepreneur or a foreign business expanding into Singapore, our experienced team ensures your trade name is registered smoothly and in full compliance with local regulations.
Conclusion
A unique and compliant Trade Name in Singapore plays a major role in branding, trust-building, and operational credibility. By understanding the legal requirements and following the correct application steps, you set the foundation for a successful business.
Don’t let name registration delays or rejections slow you down take the right steps early and make your business stand out. And if you need expert guidance or support, Ease to Compliance is here to make the process effortless.
FAQs On Trade Name in Singapore
Question 1. Can I use a trade name for multiple business activities in Singapore?
Answer: Yes, you can use one trade name across different business activities, provided all activities are declared under the appropriate SSIC codes during registration and fall within the allowed scope.
Question 2. Is it mandatory to display the trade name on invoices and receipts?
Answer: While it’s not legally required, it is highly recommended to include your registered trade name on all business documents like invoices, receipts, and contracts to maintain brand consistency and avoid confusion.
Question 3. Can I transfer my trade name to another business entity in Singapore?
Answer: No, a trade name is tied to the registered business entity and cannot be transferred. You must deregister it from one entity and reapply under the new entity if you wish to reuse the same name.
