Can anyone recommend an 'agent'

[nextstep]

Hi ...
and thanks for reading this post, and thanks in advance for any helpful replies...

I am wanting to come to Singapore to work and live. I have had my own business in Australia for 25 years (as a podiatrist - sole trader and scompany) and have recently sold it. I would like to set up my own business in Singapore and I believe the sensible way is to do it as a company. But not as a podiatrist.

I am also a hypnotherapist and want to start a hypnotherapy business in Singapore with a focus on motivation and examination, particularly with school leaving teenagers in mind.

I have been working with a view to creating a program or holding camps to assist high school leavers to be better motivated to study, more relaxed with better recall in exams, to set goals and objectives for their future and also to prepare in their return home. Kids returning home sometimes get a "culture shock", especially if going to college in another part of the country. Well thats what I'd like to do when I set up in Singapore .. but..

The question is, how is the best way to do this?

Is there an agent/agency/accountant that someone can recommend who can set this all up and arrange the paperwork as easily and painlessly (and inexpensively) as possible. (ie register the busines name, setup a company and employment pass details. I am still in Melbourne.

Also, is there anything else required that can be added to my growing list ?

Anyway I won't take up your time.. many thanks for reading this far.
All assistance will be greatly received.

Regard
David
'next step'

[Strong Eagle]

The speed of this board is killing me.

Here's my $0.02 (Sing):

If you are going to set yourself up, you really need to form as a private limited, even though a sole proprietorship would work. Why?

a) You'll carry more weight with the authorities in getting your Entrepass.

b) Easier for an expat to get bank accounts, lines of credit, rentals... just about anything when you can produce a private limited company.

c) Your personal assets are protected... unlike a sole proprietorship or partnership where you are personally at risk.

Your basic steps are:

a) Apply for an Entrepass. This takes a biz plan of no more than 10 pages... market plan, competitive analysis, sales forecasts, and 3 years of pro forma statements are a must, in my opinion. The key is providing economic benefit to Singapore... paying taxes, hiring people, putting cash in Singapore banks. I'll send you my biz plan table of contents if you email me.

b) Form your company. It's not hugely difficult but I guarantee it is so much easier with a skilled pro. Email me again and I'll set you up with my CPA... small biz specialist, knows all the ins and outs, handles many duties, might be able to help with the Entrepass. She's relatively inexpensive... I view things from a value perspective and she is worth every penny.

c) Arrive and start. The board admins have recommendations for office space, and I have a friend who is great in expat real estate.

Dop me a line if you want more info.

[nextstep]

Hi Strong Eagle,
I have sent you a PM..

Thanks for this advice and your assistance

nextstep

[nextstep]

G'day Strong Eagle,
Thanks to your recommendation I have received my entrepass.
Now remains a few of the fine details before we rock and roll!
Many thanks again...
Regards
D
when are we going to have that beer !

[Scorpion]

Agent...?? Will prefer 'Tom cruise'