Research and experimental development on biotechnology (except medical and veterinary science)
This sub-class includes biotechnology research and experimental development (R&D) that involves the study of the use of microorganisms and/or cellular and/or biomolecular processes to develop or alter living or non-living materials. This research and development in biotechnology may result in development of new processes or in prototypes of new products that may be reproduced, utilised, or implemented by various industries (excluding medical science and veterinary science).
Licences & Permits
1 licence apply to businesses in this SSIC code depending on the specific activities you conduct. Most are activity-triggered — a holding company in 64, for example, only needs a Banking Licence if it actually conducts banking.
Experimental Station Licence
You require an Experimental Station Licence if you intend to conduct research and development activities, testing, experiments, or demonstrations in radiocommunication / using radiocommunication equipment. For more information please visit: IMDA website
When: if conducting research and development activities in radiocommunication.
- Validity
- 1 year
- Processing
- within 10 working days upon complete submission of all information
Prerequisites (2)
- Purpose of proposed network and supporting documents
- Purpose of proposed network and supporting documents
Need help with these licences?
We handle the applications, document prep, and agency liaison end-to-end.
Licence requirements change — we keep this list current as part of the engagement.
Tax Incentives & Schemes
5 schemes that businesses in this SSIC code may qualify for. Eligibility is case-by-case — talk to the relevant authority.
Development & Expansion Incentive (DEI)
Eligibility: Existing activity in Singapore expanding into substantially new capability or capacity. Discretionary, EDB-administered.
IP Development Incentive (IDI)
Eligibility: Substantive R&D activity in SG; modified-nexus approach links concessionary tax to R&D spend ratio.
Pioneer Certificate Incentive (PC)
Eligibility: Substantial new economic activity in Singapore: substantial fixed-asset investment, technology spillovers, and new-to-Singapore expertise. Approved on a discretionary, case-by-case basis.
Note for SSIC : R&D pioneer track
Partial Tax Exemption (PTE)
Eligibility: Singapore tax-resident company.
Start-Up Tax Exemption (SUTE)
Eligibility: Newly incorporated SG-resident company, ≤ 20 individual shareholders (or one corporate holding ≥ 10%), not in investment-holding or property-development.
Note for SSIC : Excludes 64202 investment holding & 41001/68101 property development
Worth applying for any of these?
We screen eligibility and shape the application — most schemes are discretionary and need a substantive activity case.
Foreign Worker Levies
This SSIC code falls under MOM's Services sector for foreign-worker levy purposes. Levies below apply per worker per month, paid by the employer in addition to salary.
S Pass
| Tier | Monthly | Conditions |
|---|---|---|
| Tier 1 | SGD 550 | Up to 10% of total workforce |
Work Permit
| Tier | Monthly | Conditions |
|---|---|---|
| Higher-skilled (Tier 1) | SGD 300 | Up to 10% |
| Basic (Tier 1) | SGD 450 | Up to 10% |
| Basic (Tier 2) | SGD 600 | 10–25% |
| Basic (Tier 3) | SGD 800 | >25% (up to DRC of 35%) |
Hiring foreign workers in this sector?
We handle Work Permit, S Pass, and EP applications alongside the incorporation — and check Dependency Ratio Ceilings before you commit headcount.
Levies and Dependency Ratio Ceilings are reviewed periodically by MOM (rates above effective 2024-09-01).
Classification Path
Need help choosing?
Our guide helps you find the right SSIC code for your business activity.
Read the SSIC Guide