How to Get UEN Number in Singapore: Know the Process

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The UEN (Unique Entity Number) is an exclusive identification code issued to all businesses operating in Singapore. This code comprises 9 or 10 characters. It streamlines interactions between a company and different government agencies.

Singapore is a leading business hub in Asia. The island county has a thriving economy, boosted by a competitive tax system, excellent infrastructure, and a skilled workforce. Its robust business environment attracts both foreign and local investors.

When starting a business in Singapore, one of the first things you will encounter is the Unique Entity Number (UEN). It is a unique ID code assigned to registered businesses. This code serves as the official ID of your business in Singapore.

As a registered business owner, you can obtain this ID for free. Once allotted, you won’t be able to alter your UEN number, even if you change your business name.

In this blog, we shall delve into how to get UEN number in Singapore.

Key Features of UEN

The Singapore government introduced UEN in 2009. This code is issued by government agencies known as UEN-issuance agencies. Some of these agencies are the Accounting and Corporate Regulatory Authority (ACRA), the Ministry of Manpower (MOM), and the Registry of Societies (ROS).

Companies use it when dealing with government agencies for various purposes, such as license applications, filing taxes, and business contracts.

The key features of UEN are as follows:

It is an alphanumeric code having 9 or 10 characters.
It is issued by multiple government agencies.
UEN is mandatory for local companies, foreign companies registered in Singapore, partnerships, sole proprietors, and limited liability partnerships (LLPs).
It is necessary for regulatory compliance and government transactions.

Structure and Format of UEN

The composition of UEN varies based on entity type and registration date. Here’s a breakdown of the different entity types and UEN formats.

Entity Type	UEN Format	Details
Businesses registered with ACRA before 2009	9-digit UEN number that follows the pattern nnnnnnnnX	n = a number X = a check alphabet used to validate the UEN
Local companies registered with ACRA after 2009	10-digit UEN number that follows the pattern yyyynnnnnX	yyyy = the year of issuance nnnn = a sequential number X = a check alphabet used to validate the UEN
All other entities registered after 2009, such as • Limited Liability Partnerships (ACRA) • Foreign Companies (ACRA) • Public Accounting Firms (ACRA) • Societies (ROS) • Representative Offices (IE Singapore) • Mutual Benefit Organisations (MCYS)	10-digit UEN number that follows the pattern TyyPQnnnnX	Tyy = the year of issuance PQ = the entity type (e.g., LP for Limited Partnership) nnn = a sequential number X = a check alphabet used to validate the UEN

How to Get UEN Number in Singapore

Here’s a step-by-step process to register your business and get UEN number in Singapore.

Step 1: Select the Type of Your Business

Business structure in Singapore can be of different types. You can select the one that suits you best. For instance, you can choose sole proprietorship or go with partnership.

Step 2: Fulfill the Registration Formalities

Registration of a business in Singapore is a quick and simple process. You must visit ACRA’s BizFile+ online portal. After entering the required details, you must pay the registration fee. The fee can vary based on the type of your business.

You must pay the fee in two parts – the Name Application Fee and the Business Registration Fee.

The name application fee is 15 Singapore dollars for all business types.
For sole proprietorships, partnerships, and LLPs, the registration fee is 100 Singapore dollars for one year and 175 Singapore Dollars for three years.
For company registration (incorporation), the fee is 300 Singapore dollars for one year.

Also Read: AI Business Name Generators: Unlock Creative and Unique Business Name

Step 3: Opt for a Special UEN (Optional)

This is when you decide whether you want a special UEN (SUN) or a regular one. If you opt for a special UEN, you get to pick it from a list of reserved UENs. These are easier to recall. However, you will have to pay extra for a special UEN number.

You can apply for the SUN service by choosing your preferred UENs through two tiers.

Tier 1

A Tier 1 SUN comprises a consecutive same number, or any number combination involving the number ‘8’ (such as 201899999R featuring a consecutive same number or T18LP0008H featuring a number combination involving 8)
Fee: 3000 Singapore dollars per SUN

Tier 2

A Tier 2 SUN is a number that features a repetitive pattern (excluding the number ‘8’) or ends with a triple identical number (such as T18LL5050K featuring a repetitive pattern excluding ‘8’ or 201801777B featuring a triple identical number at the end)
Fee: 1000 Singapore dollars per SUN

Pro Tip: Decide whether you want a SUN or a general UEN before registering your business. You won’t be able to convert your UEN to a SUN later unless you convert your business structure or register a new business.

Step 4: Receive Your UEN

After you complete the registration process successfully, you will receive your business profile via email. This profile will have the details of your business and your UEN number.

Also Read: Benefits Of Having A Professional Email Address For Businesses

Benefits of UEN Number

The UEN number makes it easier for business owners to interact with government agencies. Since this identification code is recognised by all regulatory bodies and government agencies in Singapore, it can be useful in several situations:

Applying for a work permit
Filing of corporate tax returns
Updating business information with ACRA
Making payments
Renewing licenses

How Can UEN Help Your Business?

Here are some ways in which a UEN number can help your business:

It serves as a single point of reference for all government-related interactions. This minimises the need for administrative effort.
You can use it to access business-related services offered online on government platforms.
Since it is a unique identifier code, it helps to differentiate your business from similar registered business names in government records.
When you have a UEN number, you can sign up for PayNow Corporate. This will enable you to carry out instant monetary transactions in Singapore Dollars without sharing bank details.

Final Thoughts

Knowing how to get UEN number is essential for all businesses operating in Singapore. It helps them to obtain UEN and streamline their interactions with different government agencies.

Apart from registering your business and getting your UEN, you must focus on establishing your online presence. Vodien’s website builder and online marketing solutions can address all such requirements.

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