Introduction to registrable controllers
Every company incorporated in Singapore must keep a Register of Registrable Controllers (RORC). It records the individuals and entities that ultimately own or control the company, which helps make the control and ownership of companies more transparent. The requirement has applied since 31 March 2017. Since 30 July 2020, companies must also lodge the same information with ACRA's Central Register of Controllers. This central register is available only to law enforcement agencies.
Who is required to register for registrable controllers?
The following entities are required to register for registrable controllers in Singapore:
- All companies incorporated in Singapore
- All foreign companies which are registered in Singapore
- All limited liability partnership registered in Singapore unless exempted
The following entities are exempted from registering for registrable controllers in Singapore:
- A public company listed on the Singapore stock exchange;
- A company that is a Singapore financial institution;
- A company that is wholly-owned by the Singapore Government;
- A company that is wholly-owned by a statutory body established by or under a public Act for a public purpose; and
- A wholly-owned subsidiary of any of the entities listed above.
- A Company which shares are listed on a securities exchange in a country or territory outside Singapore and which is subject to:
- Regulatory Disclosure Requirements; and
- Requirements relating to adequate transparency in respect of its beneficial owners (imposed through stock exchange rules, law or other enforceable means).
When should you set up your register for registrable controllers by?
For existing companies, foreign companies and limited liability partnerships must maintain its Register of Registrable Controllers from the date of incorporation or registration. Any change must be updated in the register and lodged with ACRA’s Central Register of Controllers within 2 business days.
A newly incorporated company must maintain its register of registrable controllers from incorporation. The previous 30-day period was removed on 16 June 2025.
Who can be a “controller” of a company?
A person is a registrable controller if they meet at least one of these criteria, directly or indirectly:
- Hold 25% or more of the company's shares
- Hold 25% or more of the voting rights
- Have the right to share in more than 25% of the company's profits or capital
- Have the right to appoint or remove a director
- Hold the right to exercise, or actually exercise, significant control over the company
If the company cannot identify any registrable controller, it must record the directors with executive control and its chief executive officer as registrable controllers.
