How long does it take to incorporate a Sdn Bhd in Malaysia?
SSM does not guarantee a fixed time. Once a complete application and name approval are in place, approval can come within a few working days, but busy periods and queries from SSM can stretch it. Preparing documents and getting everyone's details and signatures often takes longer than SSM's processing.
SSM's published guidelines describe the steps but do not promise a turnaround time, so treat any number as an estimate.
What affects timing
- Name approval: a name that is too similar to an existing one, or contains restricted words, may be rejected and need resubmission.
- Completeness: missing director or shareholder details, unclear business activity or a missing consent letter (for example from a corporate shareholder or a regulator) causes delays.
- Verification: SSM reviews the application; if it is satisfied, it issues a notice of approval and registration.
- Sector approvals: if your activity needs a consent letter from another agency, get it first.
Sources differ. Some service providers say 1 to 3 working days after submission; others quote 5 to 10 working days from the time everyone has signed. Both can be true depending on what is counted. Plan on roughly one to two weeks from gathering documents to having your registration notice, and longer for foreign shareholders or regulated activities.
After approval, remember the 30-day deadline to appoint a company secretary.
Legal basis
- Companies Act 2016, s.14
- Companies Act 2016, s.236(2)
Sources
Applies to 2026 · Last reviewed 29 October 2026
General information for business owners, not legal, tax or professional advice. Rules change, so check the sources or ask a licensed professional before you act.
Related questions
- What business structure should I choose in Malaysia: sole proprietorship, partnership, LLP or Sdn Bhd?Pick based on liability, who owns it and how credible you need to look. A sole proprietorship or partnership is cheapest but the owners are personally liable; an LLP or a Sdn Bhd gives a separate legal entity. A Sdn Bhd is the usual choice once you hire staff, sign larger contracts or bring in investors.
- What is the difference between a sole proprietorship and a Sdn Bhd in Malaysia?A sole proprietorship is not a separate legal person, so you are personally liable for all business debts. A Sdn Bhd is its own legal person and shareholders are generally liable only for unpaid share capital. A Sdn Bhd costs more to set up and carries more yearly filing duties.
- What is an LLP in Malaysia and how is it different from a Sdn Bhd?A limited liability partnership (LLP) is a body corporate registered under the LLP Act 2012. It needs at least two partners (a shortfall is allowed for six months) and a compliance officer who is a Malaysian citizen or permanent resident living in Malaysia. It runs on a partnership agreement, not a board. A Sdn Bhd has directors, shares and heavier governance under the Companies Act 2016.
- How do I register a Sdn Bhd with SSM step by step?Search and apply for a company name, then lodge the incorporation application online with SSM through its e-services (MyCoID), with director and shareholder details, registered office and business activity. Pay the RM1,000 fee, then appoint a licensed company secretary within 30 days of incorporation.
- How much does it cost to incorporate a Sdn Bhd in Malaysia (SSM fees)?SSM's own fee is RM1,000 to incorporate a company limited by shares, plus RM50 for each 30-day name reservation (unless you use direct incorporation). Your total will also include the company secretary and any professional fees, which are not set by SSM.