GST in Singapore | Step-by-Step Guidance on GST Registration and Filing

Singapore’s Goods and Services Tax (GST) is a critical component of Singapore’s taxation system, implemented on 1 April 1994, to move towards a consumption-based tax system. Initially placed at 3%, the GST rate has over time raised incrementally to 9% effective 1 January 2024. The indirect tax, just like the Value-Added Tax (VAT) employed in the world, is charged on the sale of goods and services, and imported goods. While companies must collect and remit GST, the final cost falls on buyers, and as such, GST is a comprehensive revenue-raising instrument for the government.

GST Chargeability Scope

A business can impose GST on goods or services only where all the conditions below are fulfilled:

• The supply occurs within Singapore
• The supply is taxable
• The supplier is registered for GST
• The supply is created during commercial activities

When to Register for GST?

Compulsory GST Registration: If your business is making taxable supplies of goods and services in Singapore and your turnover is more than SGD 1 million per annum, you are required to register for GST with IRAS.

Voluntary GST Registration: If your turnover is below SGD 1 million but anticipate crossing it in the near term or if you wish to recover GST on business expenditures, you can voluntarily register for GST.

Filing GST Returns

GST-registered businesses are required to file GST returns online through the IRAS myTax Portal. The frequency of filing varies with the filing cycle allocated to the business:

• Quarterly (default): One month after the end of the quarter
• Monthly (if monthly): Due by the close of the succeeding month
• Biannually (for qualifying businesses): Due one month after the end of the six months

GST Rates

GST Category	GST Rate	Can Businesses Charge GST?	Can Claim Input GST?
Standard-Rated	9%	Yes	Yes
Zero-Rated	0%	Yes, but at 0%	Yes
Exempt	No GST	No	No
Out-of-Scope	No GST	No	Not available/No

Documents Needed for GST Registration

• ACRA Business Profile / UEN
• Past 12 Months’ Sales (if required)
• Projected Sales (next 12 months)
• NRIC/FIN or Passport of Directors
• Business Activity Proof (invoices, contracts)

The step-by-step process for GST Registration

STEP 1:Log into the IRAS Portal

• Visit the IRAS website and log in with SingPass or CorpPass

STEP 2:Access GST Registration Form

• Go to “e-Services” > “GST” and click on “GST Registration”

STEP 3:Complete the Registration Form

• Enter your company name and UEN, complete the declaration form, and click Submit

STEP 4:Verify Business Details

• Finish your business profile and check your information

STEP 5: Provide Supply Information

• Enter information on your company supplies

STEP 6:Attach Documents and Submit

• Attach the documents required and apply

STEP 7:Confirm Details

• Check and confirm your information

STEP 8:Save Acknowledgement Page

• Save the acknowledgment page upon submission

STEP 9:Receive Notification

• Wait for a notification stating your GST registration status

Penalties for Non-Compliance

Type of Offense	Penalty/Fine
Late Payment of GST	5% penalty on unpaid tax 2% additional penalty per month after 60 days (capped at 50% of unpaid tax)
Incorrect GST Reporting (Errors in Returns)	Negligence: Penalty up to 100% of underpaid GST Careless mistakes: Fine up to S$5,000 per error False reporting or misrepresentation: Up to 200% of underpaid GST
Wilful GST Evasion and Fraud	Up to 7 years’ imprisonment and/or a fine of up to S$10,000 An additional penalty of 3x tax evaded False invoicing or fraudulent claims: Fine up to S$50,000 or 3 years in jail
Failure to Register for GST (when required)	Fine up to S$10,000 + backdated GST owed
Charging GST when not registered	Fine up to S$10,000 + required to pay wrongly collected GST
Issuing Incorrect GST Invoices	Fine up to S$5,000 per invoice
Failure to Keep Proper Records (min. 5 years)	Fine up to S$5,000 per offense

Step-by-step process  for GST Filing

STEP :1 Log in to myTax Portal

• Visit the IRAS Website
• Click “Login” and access using SingPass (individuals) or CorpPass (companies)

STEP 2:Access GST Filing Section

• From your dashboard, go to “Corporate Tax” → “GST”
• Click on “File GST Return” to initiate the process

STEP 3: Complete GST F5 Return

• Complete the declaration section, then continue
• Enter supplies, purchases, revenue, and other mandatory fields
• Submit the return

STEP 4: Confirmation & Acknowledgement

• Get a confirmation page upon successful submission
• Save or print the acknowledgment receipt

Note: In case of errors to be rectified after submission, submit GST F7

Conclusion

Singapore’s GST system is an imperative part of its taxation system, upholding an equitable and consumption-driven revenue model. With a rate of 9% currently, well-defined registration thresholds, systematic filing procedures, and stringent compliance standards, companies need to be cautious about their GST responsibilities. Remaining compliant not only prevents penalties but also builds trust and smooth running in Singapore’s pro-business environment. Accurate recordkeeping, timely filing, and knowledge of the GST scope are essential to smooth compliance and long-term business growth.