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Singapore GST Guide (Goods and Services Tax)

Singapore's GST is a broad-based consumption tax at 9% (since 1 January 2024, up from 8% in 2023 and 7% previously). Exports are zero-rated, financial services are exempt, and the registration threshold is SGD 1 million in annual taxable turnover. IRAS administers GST through its myTax Portal e-filing system. All amounts in SGD.

GST is administered by the Inland Revenue Authority of Singapore (IRAS). For related guidance, see our Personal Tax Guide →, Corporate Tax Guide →, and Investment Income Guide →.

Current GST Rate

  • The standard GST rate is 9% effective from 1 January 2024, following a two-step increase from 7% to 8% (1 January 2023) and then to 9% (1 January 2024).
  • No further rate increases have been announced as of Budget 2026. The government has stated the 9% rate is expected to remain stable barring major fiscal developments.

Registration Threshold

  • Mandatory registration: Any business whose taxable turnover exceeds SGD 1 million (or is expected to exceed) in a 12-month period must register for GST.
  • Voluntary registration: Businesses with turnover below SGD 1 million may apply for voluntary registration, subject to IRAS approval. Once registered, the business must remain registered for at least two years.
  • Group registration and divisional registration are available for related entities.

Zero-Rated & Exempt Supplies

  • Zero-rated supplies (0% GST): Exports of goods, international services, and prescribed transactions. Input tax can be claimed in full. Examples include goods exported from Singapore, services performed overseas, and international transport.
  • Exempt supplies (no GST, no input tax recovery): Most financial services (lending, insurance, securities trading), residential property sales and leases, and precious metals (investment-grade). Input tax attributable to exempt supplies is generally not recoverable, subject to the de minimis rule.

IRAS e-Filing (myTax Portal)

  • GST returns are filed electronically via IRAS myTax Portal. Filing is required on a quarterly basis for most businesses (monthly filing is available for businesses expecting frequent refunds).
  • Returns are due within one month after the end of each accounting period. Late filing attracts penalties and late payment interest at 5% per annum.
  • The GST return (GST F5 / F8) reports output tax, input tax, and the net GST payable or refundable.

Import GST & Reverse Charge

  • GST is payable on imported goods at the point of entry, collected by Singapore Customs. Businesses may claim this as input tax if GST-registered.
  • Reverse charge applies to imported services (business-to-business) where the recipient is GST-registered and the supply would be taxable if made in Singapore. This ensures a level playing field with local suppliers.

Penalties & Compliance

  • Late filing: SGD 200 penalty per late return; prosecution for repeated non-compliance.
  • Late payment: 5% interest per annum on outstanding amounts, compounding.
  • IRAS conducts regular audits and may impose penalties of up to 200% of the tax undercharged for fraudulent evasion.