Last updated
The SSIC code tells the Singapore government what your business does. ACRA asks for one primary code and, if you need it, one secondary code when you register on Bizfile. If the activity changes later, you must report it within 14 days through the Update entity information service.
Checked against ACRA and the Singapore Department of Statistics.
What is the SSIC and who publishes it?
The Singapore Standard Industrial Classification is the national standard for classifying economic activities carried out by economic units. The Department of Statistics (SingStat) publishes it, and it follows the structure of the international ISIC system. Agencies use it for censuses, surveys and administrative records. ACRA uses it to record the activity of every registered entity.
The newest edition was published on as an update of the previous edition, with mapping tables that convert between the two. Codes in the classification run from broad divisions down to five-digit sub-classes. ACRA noted "SSIC code changes" as a topic at a webinar for entities. SingStat's page does not say by when agencies must switch, so ask ACRA or your corporate secretary if you are unsure whether your existing code still applies.
How many SSIC codes can you register?
Two at most. ACRA's name-reservation step asks you to pick one code for the primary activity and, where relevant, one for a secondary activity. Choose the primary code for the activity that brings in most of your revenue. Pick a secondary code only if a second line of work is real, not something you might add later.
How do you choose the right SSIC code?
- Write one plain sentence about what the company sells and to whom.
- On Bizfile, when you reserve the name, type a keyword into the business activity field and search.
- Read the code descriptions, not only the titles. Similar codes often split goods from services, or wholesale from retail.
- Choose the one closest to your main revenue.
- Check whether the activity needs a licence or approval from another agency.
GoBusiness, the government licensing portal, offers an e-Adviser for starting a business. ACRA points to it for step-by-step guidance, including searching SSIC codes before you apply.
The free Bizfile industry search is a good test. Search your code and see which live businesses use it. If they all look like your competitors, you are probably in the right place. If they look like something else, try again.
Does the code affect licences and approvals?
It can. ACRA says registrations that need approval from a referral authority may take 14 to 60 days, instead of being approved soon after payment. The code you choose can trigger that route if the activity is regulated. Check this before you commit to a name and a launch date. Our company registration guide shows the usual timeline.
How do you change your SSIC code?
On Bizfile:
- Log in and open the Update entity information service.
- On the Entity information page, select Business activities and click Edit.
- Enter the SSIC code or search by industry keyword, then pick the activity from the list.
- Enter the effective date of the change.
- Click Review and confirm, then submit.
ACRA expects you to report the change within 14 days, and late reports can attract penalties. Directors and secretaries carry the duty to report changes to company information. ACRA's page does not state a fee for this update, so check the Bizfile screen for the current charge before you submit. If a corporate service provider acts for you, send it the new activity in writing.
What do you do after the code changes?
Tell the people who rely on your stated activity. Banks ask what the company does when you open an account, so keep your description consistent with the code. That is our advice, not an ACRA rule. See business bank account in Singapore for what banks ask. If you hold a licence, confirm that it still fits the new activity. Then buy a fresh Business Profile to see that the update shows correctly.
How do you search other companies by SSIC?
Use the industry search on Bizfile. Enter an SSIC code or a keyword such as cafe and it lists live businesses with that activity, up to 250 results. Add filters to narrow it down. It is a quick way to size a market or find competitors in Singapore, and it costs nothing.
Should a provider choose the code for you?
Many founders choose it alone. If the activity is regulated or mixed, a corporate service provider can check the code against licence needs before filing. This site is an independent guide and not ACRA. Use the quote form if you want suitable providers to contact you, knowing that we may earn a referral fee when a request becomes a client.
Sources
- ACRA, finding the right SSIC code: https://www.acra.gov.sg/register/business/choosing-reserving-a-business-name/finding-the-right-ssic-code/ (one primary and one secondary code, Bizfile keyword search, GoBusiness e-Adviser).
- ACRA, changing company details: https://www.acra.gov.sg/how-to-guides/updating-information-of-companies-and-company-officers/change-in-company-s-name-business-activity-registered-office-address-or-company-officers (14-day report rule, Update entity information service).
- ACRA, Bizfile update guide: https://www.acra.gov.sg/docs/default-source/default-document-library/about-bizfile/bizfile-guide/bizfile-guide---update-entity-information.pdf (steps to edit business activities).
- Singapore Department of Statistics, SSIC: https://www.singstat.gov.sg/standard-classifications/national-classifications/singapore-standard-industrial-classification-ssic (publication date, structure, purpose).
- ACRA, webinar on regulatory measures: https://www.acra.gov.sg/news-events/event-highlights/supporting-your-business-with-regulatory-measures-and-digital-enhancements-webinar/ (SSIC code changes covered on 26 March).
- ACRA, registering a local company via Bizfile: https://www.acra.gov.sg/register/business/registering-different-business-structures/local-company/registering-via-bizfile/ (referral authority timing).
- ACRA, using Bizfile's search functions: https://www.acra.gov.sg/resources/guides-forms/using-bizfiles-search-functions/ (industry search, 250 results).
