If you're wondering why ACRA doesn't simply accept a PDF of your accounts, the answer is about what structured data lets a regulator do that a scanned document can't.
It's a legal filing requirement, not a preference
Under the Companies Act, Singapore-incorporated companies (unless specifically exempted) must file financial statements with ACRA in XBRL format as part of their Annual Return. See our filing deadlines guide for exact dates.
Why ACRA moved to structured data
XBRL tagging lets ACRA's BizFinx system validate submitted figures automatically and analyse financial data across Singapore's entire company register systematically — something a PDF was never built for. That's the underlying reason for the requirement, not simply digitising paperwork.
What happens if you don't file correctly
A submission that fails BizFinx validation isn't accepted until it's corrected, and that delay counts against your Annual Return deadline the same as not filing at all — triggering the penalties in our late filing penalties guide.
Exemptions exist, but they're specific
Some companies — certain dormant or exempt entities — have reduced or different obligations. See our dormant and exempt companies guide for exactly which criteria apply, since exemption is not the default.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is XBRL filing optional for small companies in Singapore?
No — the requirement applies to Singapore-incorporated companies filing with ACRA, with format determined by size (Full vs Simplified XBRL), not an exemption from filing itself. See our Full vs Simplified XBRL guide.
Can I submit a PDF instead of XBRL to ACRA?
No — ACRA requires financial statements in XBRL format as part of the Annual Return filing via BizFinx, not as a plain PDF submission.
Does a dormant company still need to file in XBRL?
Dormant and exempt companies have specific, sometimes reduced requirements — see our dormant and exempt companies guide for exactly what applies.