How it works
IRAS issues a certificate of residence when control and management is exercised in Singapore, meaning the board makes strategic decisions here. For certificates covering 2025 onwards, a foreign-owned investment holding company must also have a Singapore-based executive director who is not a nominee, a Singapore-based key employee, or management by a related Singapore company.
Worked example
A foreign-owned holding company with board meetings in Singapore but only a nominee director: a gap. Adding a Singapore-based executive director closes it.
Questions people ask
What is a certificate of residence?
An IRAS certificate confirming Singapore tax residence, used to claim treaty benefits abroad.
Is a nominee director enough?
Not for a foreign-owned investment holding company from 2025.
How do we apply?
Online through myTax Portal, using Corppass.
Sources
- IRAS: Applying for a certificate of residence
- KNAV: Tax residency certificate in Singapore (IRAS criteria)secondary
Last checked 1 November 2026. General information only, not advice for your situation. Speak to a qualified adviser before you act.