Last Updated on October 18, 2026 by ThriveOnz360 Editorial
Both work. The honest answer depends on who you sell to, what you sell, and whether you will have a physical presence. Here is how to think it through.
General information. Tax rates and rules change: check gov.uk and IRAS before you decide.
A UK company suits you if
- Your customers or investors are in the UK or Europe
- You want a director who does not need to live in the UK
- You are comfortable with UK filings: a confirmation statement and annual accounts
A Singapore company suits you if
- Your customers are mainly in Southeast Asia and you want a local entity there
- You plan to be physically based in Singapore soon
- You are not ready to deal with UK registered office and filing rules
We run a UK company from Asia, and our own view is the same: the choice depends on your target market, your segment and product-market fit, and whether you will have a physical presence as the founder. Both have their own perks.
The differences that matter
| UK limited company | Singapore private limited | |
|---|---|---|
| Director residence | A director does not need to live in the UK | At least one director must be ordinarily resident in Singapore |
| Local address | UK registered office required | Singapore registered office required |
| Main corporate tax rate | 25% (smaller profits can pay less) | 17% flat, with partial exemptions |
| Yearly filings | Confirmation statement and annual accounts | Annual return and financial statements |
Rates and rules as widely published; confirm on gov.uk and IRAS. Banking for non-resident directors can be harder than expected in either place: ask each bank before you commit.
Mistakes to avoid
- Choosing on tax rate alone and ignoring where your customers, banking and team are
- Assuming a non-resident director is allowed everywhere: check the rule for your country
- Underestimating the yearly filings and who will do them
FAQs
Can I be a director of a UK company if I live abroad?
Yes. See our guide to identity verification for overseas directors.
Do I need a resident director in Singapore?
Yes. Singapore requires at least one director who is ordinarily resident there.
Which is cheaper?
It depends on the services you choose. Our UK cost guide shows what we paid.
Not sure which fits your situation?
Tell us your situationUK registration steps
A person replies within 48 hours. No affiliate links on this page. General information, not legal or tax advice.
Published by ThriveOnz Group UK Ltd, a company registered in England and Wales. Some links on this site are affiliate links and are always disclosed. General information, not legal, tax or financial advice. See our Editorial Standards.