Set up Insurance Representative Office

Direct insurers and reinsurers need to apply for approval if they wish to set up a representative office in Singapore. 

Representative offices are not allowed to carry on or solicit insurance business in Singapore and can only carry on activities approved by MAS.

Admission Criteria

MAS assesses applications for setting up a representative office using these criteria:

  • Domestic and international rankings of the applicant by factors such as premiums and assets.
  • Past and present credit ratings by international rating agencies, including Standard and Poor's, A.M Best, Moody's and Fitch.
  • Track record, financial soundness and reputation of the applicant, including the applicant's compliance with its home regulations. In assessing this criteria, MAS will consult the applicant's home supervisory authority.
  • Fitness and propriety of the applicant, its appointed representative in Singapore and all persons having control of the applicant.

Before You Apply

Before submitting a formal application, you are encouraged to contact the Insurance Department of MAS about your plans.

For further enquiry or to make an appointment with the Insurance Department of MAS, send an email to id_registry@mas.gov.sg .

How to Apply

To apply, submit the Application to Establish a Representative Office in Singapore (599.2 KB). Refer to the form for detailed instructions.

Processing time

It will take approximately 6 to 8 weeks after we receive the complete application to process and approve the application. As each application will be evaluated on a case-by-case basis, processing time depends on the circumstances of each application and the completeness of the information submitted.

Ensure that your application is complete, correct and accompanied by the requisite supporting documents.