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_{IMPORTANT Each and every company registered in Singapore is required to designate a corporate secretary. This is a vital step in ensuring that the company effectively handles necessary administrative changes related to the company, its shares, and its directors. These dedicated professionals are responsible for maintaining accurate company records, ensuring compliance with established corporate governance practices.}

In Singapore, the role of a corporate secretary is crucial, and certain legal requirements must be met to ensure that a company complies with the regulations set forth by the Accounting and Corporate Regulatory Authority (ACRA) and the Companies Act. The legal requirements for a corporate secretary in Singapore include:

1. Appointing a Qualified Secretary: A company must appoint a corporate secretary within six months of its incorporation. The secretary must be an individual who is a resident of Singapore and has the necessary qualifications and knowledge to fulfill the role effectively. The person should not be the sole director of the company.

2. Knowledge and Expertise: The corporate secretary must possess the requisite knowledge and expertise in company law, governance, and compliance. They should stay updated on changes in regulations and ensure that the company adheres to these changes.

3. ACRA Registered Filing Agent: The corporate secretary may also act as an ACRA registered filing agent to facilitate the filing of documents and annual returns on behalf of the company.

4. Maintaining Statutory Records: The corporate secretary is responsible for maintaining and updating the company's statutory registers, including the Register of Members, Register of Directors, Register of Secretaries, and Register of Charges.

5. Filing Annual Returns: The corporate secretary is responsible for filing the company's annual returns with ACRA. This includes providing information about the company's registered office, shareholders, directors, and financial statements.

6. Preparation of Resolutions: The corporate secretary prepares resolutions and documents for board meetings, general meetings, and other corporate actions. They ensure that these meetings are conducted in compliance with the Companies Act.

7. Advising on Corporate Governance: The corporate secretary advises the company's directors and management on corporate governance matters and ensures that the company complies with applicable regulations and best practices.

8. Change of Company Particulars: The secretary is responsible for updating ACRA on any changes to the company's particulars, such as changes in registered office address, directors, shareholders, or the company's constitution.

9. Compliance and Legal Support: The corporate secretary helps the company maintain compliance with the law and provides support in legal matters related to corporate governance and regulatory requirements.

10. Safekeeping of Common Seal: If the company has a common seal, the corporate secretary is responsible for its safekeeping and use in accordance with the company's constitution.

It's important to note that while these are the general legal requirements for a corporate secretary in Singapore, specific obligations may vary depending on the company's size, structure, and industry. Companies should choose their corporate secretary carefully, as the role involves significant responsibilities in ensuring regulatory compliance and good corporate governance.

Companies may choose to hire an in-house corporate secretary or outsource this role to a professional corporate services provider in Singapore, such as a corporate secretarial firm, to ensure that all legal requirements are met efficiently.