Singapore’s momentum as a global startup and business hub shows no sign of slowing. Over 4,900 new companies launched in October 2025, drawn by the city’s pro-business rules, low taxes, and world-class ecosystem.
In this October 2025 Singapore Regulatory Update, we break down the latest developments in corporate law, taxation, immigration, and government regulations to help businesses navigate the evolving regulatory landscape.
Company Law
Corporate and Accounting Laws (Amendment) Bill Introduced in Parliament
On 14 October 2025, the Ministry of Finance and ACRA introduced the Corporate and Accounting Laws (Amendment) Bill 2025 in Parliament. The Bill seeks to strengthen ACRA’s enforcement powers, streamline filing requirements, and enhance corporate transparency. The key proposed legislative amendments aim to:
- Prevent misuse of companies for unlawful purposes;
- Reduce regulatory burden for companies;
- Safeguard shareholders’ interests; and
- Enhance the regulatory regime for public accountants.
It also proposes amendments to the ACRA Act 2004 and related legislation to modernize Singapore’s corporate regulatory framework. Once enacted, companies may need to update their internal governance and filing procedures to align with the new compliance requirements.
ACRA Prosecuted Nominee Director for AGM and Annual Return Breaches
On 13 October 2025, ACRA reported the conviction of a nominee director for failing to hold annual general meetings and file annual returns for multiple companies. The director was fined and disqualified from managing companies for five years. The case reinforces ACRA’s strict stance on statutory filing obligations and highlights the accountability of nominee directors under Singapore’s Companies Act.
Source: https://www.acra.gov.sg/prosecution-highlights/prosecution-of-cases-in-the-state-courts
Tax & Accounting Law
IRAS Issues Guide for Corporate Income Tax Filing Season 2025
In October 2025, the Inland Revenue Authority of Singapore (IRAS) released an updated guide for the Year of Assessment (YA) 2025 corporate income tax filing season. The publication outlines filing procedures for Form C-S, Form C-S (Lite), and Form C, explains the eligibility criteria for each, and highlights common errors to avoid. It also reiterates the 50 % corporate income tax rebate for YA 2025 announced in Budget 2025. The guide aims to help companies prepare accurate submissions and stay compliant with Singapore’s tax system.
Source: https://www.iras.gov.sg/who-we-are/what-we-do/annual-reports-and-publications/taxbytes-iras/companies-self-employed-partnerships/your-guide-to-corporate-income-tax-season-2025
IRAS Reminds Companies of Corporate Tax Filing Deadline – 30 November 2025
IRAS has reiterated that all Singapore-incorporated companies must submit their YA 2025 corporate income tax returns by 30 November 2025. Late filings may result in estimated assessments, composition fines, or enforcement actions under Section 65B of the Income Tax Act. Companies are advised to verify their eligibility for simplified filing via Form C-S (Lite) and to ensure accounting records are properly maintained for audit purposes.
Source: https://www.iras.gov.sg/taxes/corporate-income-tax/basics-of-corporate-income-tax/corporate-income-tax-filing-season-2025
Immigration Law
ICA Introduces 180-Day Re-Entry Permit Window for Singapore Permanent Residents Abroad
On 21 October 2025, the Immigration & Checkpoints Authority (ICA) announced a new 180-day re-entry permit (REP) application window for Singapore Permanent Residents (PRs) residing overseas. Effective 1 December 2025, PRs will be required to apply for or renew their REP within this window to maintain their residency status. The change aims to streamline processing and reduce administrative delays for PRs with extended stays abroad. Those who fail to renew within the new timeframe risk lapsing their PR status.
Government Grants, Incentives & Support Schemes
Enterprise Singapore Launches Business Adaptation Grant for Tariff-Impacted Enterprises
On 7 October 2025, Enterprise Singapore introduced the Business Adaptation Grant (BizAdapt) to help local enterprises affected by global tariff changes adapt their operations and supply chains. The grant supports companies in diversifying sourcing arrangements, upgrading production processes, and adopting new technologies to remain competitive in shifting trade conditions. Eligible firms can apply through Enterprise Singapore’s portal, with support covering qualifying project costs up to a defined cap.
Enterprise Singapore Updates Support Parameters for the Energy Efficiency Grant
On 8 October 2025, Enterprise Singapore revised the eligibility criteria and funding parameters under the Energy Efficiency Grant (EEG), which helps businesses in manufacturing, food services, and retail improve energy performance. The update streamlines the application process and expands the list of pre-approved energy-efficient equipment eligible for co-funding. The scheme continues to complement Singapore’s broader decarbonisation and sustainability goals.
Source: https://www.enterprisesg.gov.sg/financial-support/energy-efficiency-grant
Funding & Startup Ecosystem
Tenity Selects Six Fintech Startups for Its Singapore Fall 2025 Accelerator
On 21 October 2025, global startup incubator Tenity announced the six fintech startups chosen for its Singapore Fall 2025 Accelerator programme. Each selected startup received pre-seed investment and access to Tenity’s corporate partner network to develop and test innovative financial solutions. The initiative reinforces Singapore’s position as a leading regional hub for fintech innovation.
Microsoft, Enterprise Singapore, and NUS Enterprise Launch Joint AI Startup Programme
On 29 October 2025, Microsoft, NUS Enterprise, and Enterprise Singapore announced a new partnership to accelerate the growth of 150 AI-focused startups in Singapore. The initiative provides selected startups with grant funding, cloud credits, and mentorship opportunities under Microsoft’s Founders Hub programme, alongside go-to-market support from Enterprise Singapore. The collaboration is part of Singapore’s broader effort to strengthen its AI and innovation ecosystem.
Business Law
New Cybersecurity Rules Extend Compliance Duties to Third-Party IT Systems
On 31 October 2025, key provisions of the Cybersecurity (Amendment) Act 2024 took effect, expanding Singapore’s cybersecurity framework to cover essential service providers that rely on external or cloud-based systems. Companies must now secure contractual commitments from third-party IT vendors, report cybersecurity incidents affecting supplier networks, and conduct regular risk assessments. The changes highlight the growing need for stronger vendor oversight and supply-chain cybersecurity among Singapore businesses.
How We Can Help
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