Eligibility Criteria to Avoid Disqualification as a Corporate Secretary in Singapore

Last Updated Jun 4, 2024
By Y Bian

Singapore citizenship or permanent residency is NOT required; foreigners with valid work passes are eligible.

Foreigners holding valid work passes have the opportunity to apply regardless of their citizenship status. This opens doors for many individuals seeking to establish their careers in Singapore. You can benefit from this inclusive policy to further your professional journey in a thriving economy. Embrace the chance to explore your options and maximize your potential in this dynamic environment.

Must be a natural person (individual), not a corporate body.

Your eligibility hinges on being a natural person, meaning you must be an individual rather than a corporate entity. This distinction ensures a personal approach to participation and responsibilities. Being a natural person often comes with unique advantages that can enhance your experience. Consider how your individual status aligns with the requirements and benefits of the opportunity.

Minimum age requirement: at least 18 years old.

To participate, you must be at least 18 years old, ensuring that everyone involved is of legal age. This age requirement promotes a responsible environment for all activities. By meeting this criteria, you gain access to various opportunities and benefits tailored for adults. Embracing this guideline helps foster a mature and engaging community.

Cannot be an undischarged bankrupt in Singapore or elsewhere.

Being an undischarged bankrupt in Singapore or any other jurisdiction can significantly impact your financial options and opportunities. This status means you are unable to manage your debts independently, affecting not only your creditworthiness but also your ability to engage in certain financial transactions. If you are considering entering into agreements or starting a business, it's essential to ensure that your bankruptcy status is resolved and that you are on a clear financial path. Taking steps to understand your options for debt resolution can empower you to regain control of your financial future.

No ongoing criminal proceedings for offences involving fraud or dishonesty.

Having no ongoing criminal proceedings related to fraud or dishonesty can positively impact your reputation and credibility. This clean slate often makes you more appealing to potential employers and can facilitate smoother transactions in various aspects of life, such as securing loans or renting property. Maintaining this status requires vigilance and ethical decision-making, ensuring that you steer clear of situations that could jeopardize your standing. Focus on building trust and integrity in all your dealings.

Not disqualified under Companies Act Sections 155, 148, or 149.

Understanding your eligibility under the Companies Act is crucial for maintaining compliance. Sections 155, 148, and 149 outline specific criteria for disqualification that can affect your role as a director. Ensuring you meet these provisions helps safeguard your position and the integrity of your company. Regularly reviewing these sections can empower you to make informed decisions in your business operations.

Must be ordinarily resident in Singapore—Singapore Citizen, Permanent Resident, or Employment Pass/EntrePass/Dependent Pass holder with local residential address.

To qualify for various benefits or services in Singapore, you must be ordinarily resident in the country. This includes being a Singapore Citizen, Permanent Resident, or a holder of an Employment Pass, EntrePass, or Dependent Pass, with a local residential address. Meeting this requirement ensures you can fully engage with your community and access important resources tailored for residents. Ensure your residency status aligns with these criteria for a smooth experience in Singapore.

Professional qualification required for public companies: advocate/solicitor, public accountant, member of SAICSA (CSIS), CPA, or member of prescribed professional bodies.

Public companies require professionals with specific qualifications to ensure compliance and effective governance. You should consider becoming an advocate, solicitor, public accountant, or a member of the South African Institute of Chartered Secretaries and Administrators (SAICSA) or a similar recognized body. These credentials not only validate your expertise but also enhance your capacity to contribute to corporate governance and financial accountability. Familiarity with these qualifications can significantly bolster your career prospects in the corporate sector.

Must not have been convicted in Singapore or elsewhere of offences involving company management or trust.

Having a clean legal record is essential for maintaining a reputable standing in company management or trust activities. If you are considering a role in these fields, ensure that you have not faced any convictions in Singapore or anywhere else that relate to financial misconduct or breaches of trust. This not only safeguards your career prospects but also protects the integrity of the organization you represent. Prioritizing transparency and ethical conduct will serve you well in your professional journey.

Not been removed from office of corporate secretary by the Accounting and Corporate Regulatory Authority (ACRA) within the last five years.

Your eligibility for the role of corporate secretary may hinge on not having been removed from that position by the Accounting and Corporate Regulatory Authority (ACRA) in the past five years. This stipulation ensures that individuals maintaining this vital role adhere to governance standards. Being compliant with such regulations reflects your commitment to corporate integrity and trustworthy administration. Always verify your status and any relevant updates with ACRA to stay informed.

Read the main article: How To Be Corporate Secretary in Singapore



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The information provided in this document is for general informational purposes only and is not guaranteed to be complete. While we strive to ensure the accuracy of the content, we cannot guarantee that the details mentioned are up-to-date or applicable to all scenarios. Topics about are subject to change from time to time.

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