Main Steps to Change a Company Name in Singapore
- Published: 1 September 2025
- 11 min read
- Running a Business
Rodney Wong
Author
Rodney helps customers in Singapore navigate their way through the details and benefits of our products and services, and to see how the application of technology to their needs could be a game changer for their business. A big believer in the power of the written word, he makes tech topics accessible, applicable, but most of all, useful, to encourage entrepreneurs to chase that big idea.
Deepti Laddha
Reviewer
Deepti Laddha, our Head of Corporate Operations in Singapore, brings a decade of experience to her role, supporting our business writers in crafting insightful and engaging articles. With a strong background in corporate services, Deepti is a rich source of knowledge and expertise. We can count on her to assist in transforming any definition, concept or complicated jargon into helpful tips that help our readers take their businesses to the next level.
Changing your company name in Singapore involves a clear set of steps, including choosing a new company name, getting approval from ACRA, and updating all company records. This guide will help you understand how to change a company name effectively and ensure a smooth transition.
Key Takeaways
- Changing a company name in Singapore requires selecting a new company name and searching its availability on ACRA, passing a special resolution, filing the resolution along with the change of company name application, and updating all relevant records.
- The proposed new company name must comply with legal requirements, ensuring it is not identical to existing company names and does not contain prohibited terms to avoid complications.
- Effective communication with stakeholders, including customers, employees, suppliers, and authorities, is crucial during the company name change process to ensure clarity and maintain relationships.
Procedure for Changing a Company’s Name
Changing a company's name in Singapore involves key steps to ensure a smooth and compliant process:
- Selecting an appropriate new name of your company and searching for its availability on ACRA.
- Passing a special resolution to agree on the new name.
- Filing the approved resolution with ACRA.
- Updating company records to reflect the new name of your company.
These steps lay the foundation for a successful company name change and are explained in more detail in the following sections.
1 Choose a new company name
The first and perhaps most crucial step in changing your Singapore company’s name is selecting a proposed new company name that meets all regulatory requirements. The new name must comply with the Companies Act, ensuring it is not identical or too similar to existing registered company names and does not contain any prohibited or undesirable words. This step is vital to avoid any legal complications or rejections during the approval process, especially when considering the proposed company name change for your Singapore registered company. If you need to, you can also change your company’s name.
Confirming the availability of the new name is essential before proceeding with the application. This involves checking ACRA’s guidelines and ensuring the proposed name does not infringe on existing trademarks or resemble other business entities. By carefully choosing a unique and appropriate name that meets corporate regulatory authority guidelines, you set a solid foundation for the subsequent steps in the name change process.
2 Check name availability and pass a special resolution
Before applying to change your Singapore company name, check its availability on ACRA’s BizFile+ portal. Once confirmed, the Singapore company must pass a special resolution to formally adopt the new name. This typically involves:
- Drafting a written resolution with language that satisfies both ACRA and any relevant referral authorities depending on your company’s industry
- Convening a general meeting where shareholders vote on the proposed name change
- Giving shareholders a 14-day written notice before the meeting
To approve the resolution, at least 75% of voting shareholders must agree. If 95% agree, the notice period may be shortened. Once passed, the resolution authorises the Singapore company to proceed with the application process to change the name of your company.
If you're unsure how to draft the special resolution, it is recommended to engage a corporate secretarial service. Such services can assist with preparing the necessary documents and ensure timely filing with ACRA, helping to avoid delays and compliance issues throughout the company name change process.
3 File the approved resolution with ACRA
After passing the special resolution, notify ACRA and file it through BizFile+ within 14 days to comply with regulatory filing deadlines. The process includes:
- Logging in to BizFile+ with SingPass
- Submitting the notice of the resolution online
- No filing fee is required for this filing, but delays or errors could lead to filing fees later in the application process.
Foreigners residing outside Singapore may not have access to SingPass. In this case, your corporate service provider can file the application on your behalf.
Ensure all information is accurate — discrepancies can result in delays, especially when submitting the application online through BizFile+ for a Singapore registered company. This may incur a new filing fee of S$ 15, which covers the reservation and approval of the proposed company name. Once processed, ACRA will update your Singapore company name in its official records. Companies can track the application online via their BizFile+ account.
It's also a good practice toinform business partners, banks, suppliers, and clients in writing about the company name change to maintain clarity and avoid confusion.
You can refer to ACRA’s BizFile+ instructions on changing a company name (PDF) for a step-by-step overview.
4 Update company information
After filing the approved resolution with ACRA, it is essential to update all company information to reflect the new name of your company. This includes:
- Updating the Singapore company’s official documents, including any relevant trade marks if the name change affects brand identity
- Updating the website
- Updating stationery
- Updating the rubber stamp
These updates ensure consistency across all company materials. Changes to company information like changing your company's name must be submitted on BizFile within 14 days of approval.
If necessary, consider registering new trade marks for the new company name to protect your brand identity. The process of updating Singapore company information is typically quick, taking about 5 to 15 minutes to complete. Ensuring all updates are made and fees are paid promptly helps maintain a professional image and prevents any operational disruptions.
5 Notify relevant authorities and stakeholders
Notifying all relevant authorities and stakeholders about the name change is a critical step to ensure smooth transitions and avoid any confusion. This includes informing:
- Customers
- Suppliers
- Banks
- The Ministry of Manpower (if the company employs foreign workers, as their work passes may be affected by the name change).
Clear and timely communication helps maintain trust and transparency with all parties involved, particularly for local companies changing names across multiple business systems and registered accounts. Ensuring that everyone is aware of the new company name and any implications it may have on their interactions with your business is key to a successful transition.
Comprehensive company incorporation
Incorporate your company and get an Osome corporate secretary to ensure you comply with laws and regulations from the get-go.
Why a Company Might Change Its Name
There are various reasons why you might decide to change your company's name, ranging from legal challenges to strategic rebranding efforts. Legal issues, such as conflicts over the proposed company name or registered trade marks, can compel a business to adopt a new name to avoid litigation. Additionally, as companies grow and expand their offerings, the original name may no longer accurately reflect their business scope, prompting a rebranding.
A confusing or easily mispronounced name can lead to misunderstandings and lost business opportunities, making a name change necessary to enhance clarity and marketability. In a competitive market, a unique and distinctive name can significantly improve a company’s visibility and appeal to a broader audience.
Head of Corporate Services
Public relations crises can also trigger a company name change to distance the company from negative associations and rebuild its reputation. Similarly, expanding into new markets may require an appropriate name that resonates better with a global audience. These reasons highlight the importance of a well-thought-out company name change strategy when changing names, especially for Singapore companies seeking better alignment with future goals.
How To Announce a Company Name Change
Announcing a company name change clearly is key to a smooth transition and maintaining communication with all stakeholders. The announcement should inform clients and the public about the new name of your company and reasons why you changed your company's name, especially if the registered company name differs from its business name. Addressing customers, employees, suppliers, and partners helps manage expectations and reduce confusion.
A communication plan may include:
- Press releases
- Emails
- Social media updates
- Direct notifications
This ensures the message reaches everyone. Being transparent and providing context fosters understanding and support from a company's shareholders and stakeholders.
For customers
When notifying customers, maintain a positive and professional tone. Clearly mention both the old and new appropriate names to avoid confusion and reassure your company's audience that your services remain unchanged.
Updating your website and social media during the announcement ensures consistency. Inviting feedback helps address concerns and strengthen relationships.
Example
Dear Valued Customer,
We are excited to announce that [Former Company Name] will be changing its name to [New Company Name], effective from [Date]. This change reflects our commitment to evolving and serving you better as we expand our services. Please be assured that our team, values, and dedication remain unchanged. We look forward to continuing our partnership under our new identity.
Thank you for your continued support.
Best regards,
[Your Name]
[Your Position]
For employees
Employees should receive notice first to prepare them for client questions and ensure consistent communication across online and offline channels. Use emails, meetings, or online notifications to provide clarity and consistency when communicating the name change. Company leadership involvement helps employees and shareholders feel engaged and secure.
Example
Example:
Dear Team,
We would like to inform you that as part of our growth strategy, [Former Company Name] will rebrand as [New Company Name] starting from [Date]. This change better represents our vision and goals. Your roles remain the same, and we count on your support to communicate this change confidently.
Please reach out with any questions.
Thank you for your dedication.
Best regards,
[CEO/Managing Director]
For suppliers and partners
Inform suppliers and partners promptly to maintain relationships and avoid confusion. Send a formal announcement with the reason and effective date. Update branding materials simultaneously.
Engage suppliers via meetings or calls to explain why you've changed your company name. Update contracts to reflect the new name of your company and maintain accurate records with referral authorities depending on your business sector. This may also determine whether the corporate regulatory authorities require in principle approval prior to finalising the update.
Example
Dear [Supplier/Partner Name],
We would like to inform you that [Former Company Name] will be changing its name to [New Company Name], effective from [Date]. This change aligns our brand with our expanding services and market presence. Please update your records accordingly.
We appreciate your continued partnership and look forward to working together under our new identity.
For any questions, please contact us.Sincerely,
[Your Name]
[Your Position]
Summary
In summary, changing a company name in Singapore involves a well-defined process that includes selecting a suitable new name, submitting the name application to ACRA, passing a special written resolution, filing the approved written resolution with ACRA, and updating all relevant company information so that ACRA approves. Each step is crucial to ensure compliance with corporate regulatory authority rules and maintain clarity in business operations.
Rebranding can offer numerous benefits, from enhancing market visibility to aligning with new business directions, particularly for local companies looking to modernise their public identity. A successful rebrand also starts with getting the formalities right. Osome helps you manage the regulatory documentation such as resolution for change of name along with ACRA filing, so you can focus on communicating the shift and building your new brand with confidence. Embracing this change thoughtfully can pave the way for new opportunities and a stronger brand identity.
Rodney helps customers in Singapore navigate their way through the details and benefits of our products and services, and to see how the application of technology to their needs could be a game changer for their business. A big believer in the power of the written word, he makes tech topics accessible, applicable, but most of all, useful, to encourage entrepreneurs to chase that big idea.
