Certain types of business activities require a Business License in Singapore. In other words a Business License is a permit issued by the Government in Singapore that allows one to conduct a specific type of business. Before applying for a business license in Singapore, the company must be first registered with the registrar of companies.
Once the registration has been completed, the business entity can proceed with the registration for business license through the Online Business Licensing Service or OBLS.A multiple award winner, the OBLS allows the business entity to submit one or multiple license applications to the relevant government agencies..
Online Business Licensing Service (OBLS)
Online Business Licensing Service allows the user to submit one or multiple license applications to the relevant government agencies. The Online Business Licensing Service (OBLS) is a service you can use to apply for your licenses and permits. From a single website, you can manage multiple licenses and permits. The applicant no longer needs to wait in line or go from agency to agency.
For further information on OBLS, please visit business.gov.sg
What is Available on OBLS
- OBLS is designed to meet the needs of start ups.
- For any established businesses, any information on licenses and permits would be available in OBLS.
Examples of License and Permits on OBLS:
- Food Shop License for retailing food and drinks
- Liquor License for selling intoxicating liquor
- Video License for selling and distributing CDs, DVDs, etc.
What is Not Available on OBLS
OBLS does not cover occupational licenses (e.g. contact lens practitioners, dentists and pilots).For these either one must contact either a lawyer or an organization that oversees the professions. A list of professional organizations can be found using:
How to Use OBLS
To get relevant information using OBLS, navigate OBLS by:
- Business Activity
- Industry
- Government Agency
- Using The Search Tool
List of Licensing Agencies
For any specific queries like licensing policies, status of the license approval and clarifications on the license submission, the information seeker may contact the Government agencies directly. A list of Government agencies for Licensing purpose across various Industries and their contact no’s furnished below.
