Can you run an unregistered business in Singapore?

[Jellyhead]

I think I know the answer, but can I check - can you actively run a 'Singapore' business (i.e. based in Singapore, selling to Singaporean, employing staff) without actually being registered?

If your company is registered overseas but you run offices, warehouse etc out of Singapore are you required to register somewhere?

Thanks!

[sundaymorningstaple]

Yep. Start with ACRA

[Jellyhead]

Have actually found the company I was employed by do not seem to be registered on ACRA. There is a dispute about my invoice and various other strange arrangements that got me thinking that I should check if they were registered and if they can operate without being registered here.

Thanks for the prompt reply!

[Strong Eagle]

You cannot open a company or business bank account without registration. Tax invoices must contain registration numbers.

[Jellyhead]

Thanks again.

They have now asked me to invoice another company (that is registered in Singapore) but that I have never worked for and they will pay the bill.

As an expat living in Singapore I am more than a little bit concerned about how such dealings could impact in me.

Just before deciding that I no longer wanted to work with them I also found out that they are allowing maids too moonlight with them too....and in the end I decided that too many things were just not adding up.'

They have been terribly unprofessional in their dealings with me regarding the invoice and even threatening in one...should I just walk away and chalk this up to a life lesson?

[sundaymorningstaple]

Sounds like it might be a good idea, before something happens that you had prior knowledge about and possibly be considered colluding with the employer to defraud the government. You surely don't want that to happen.

[Jellyhead]

I certainly do not!! Thanks for all the advice!