Section 13O vs 13U, compared
The two Singapore family office tax schemes exempt the same kind of income. The difference is the scale of assets, team and local spending each demands. Here is the side by side.
| Section 13OOnshore family office fund | Section 13UEnhanced-tier fund | |
|---|---|---|
| Minimum assets | S$10mgrow to S$20m within 2 years | S$50min designated investments |
| Investment professionals | 2 1 at application, 1 within a year | 3 at least 1 non-family member |
| Local business spend | S$200kper year | S$500kper year |
| What you get | Tax exemption on qualifying income | Tax exemption, higher tier |
Indicative Verified against MAS, July 2026. Conditions apply and change; confirm with a specialist.
When 13O is the right start
Section 13O is the more common entry point. The S$10 million threshold at application, rising to S$20 million within two years, puts it within reach of many families, and the two-professional and S$200,000 local-spend requirements are lighter. If you are setting up your first Singapore family office, this is usually where the conversation begins.
When 13U makes sense
Section 13U is the enhanced tier. It asks for at least S$50 million in designated investments, three investment professionals including at least one who is not a family member, and S$500,000 a year in local spending. For larger pools the extra substance is proportionate, and the tier signals scale.
Both are about tax, not residency
Neither scheme grants Permanent Residency. That is a separate route, the Global Investor Programme, which many families pursue alongside a 13O or 13U structure. See our Global Investor Programme guide and the full family office setup guide.
Frequently asked questions
What is the difference between 13O and 13U?
Both exempt a family office fund’s qualifying investment income from Singapore tax. Section 13O requires at least S$10 million in assets (growing to S$20 million within two years), two investment professionals and S$200,000 a year in local spending. Section 13U requires at least S$50 million, three investment professionals with at least one non-family member, and S$500,000 a year in local spending.
Which scheme should I choose?
Most families setting up their first Singapore family office start with 13O, because the S$10 million entry is more accessible. 13U suits larger pools from S$50 million upward and carries a heavier local-substance requirement. A licensed specialist confirms which fits your assets and plans.
Not sure which fits?
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Scheme conditions are indicative, drawn from the Monetary Authority of Singapore, and marked as of July 2026 because they change. This page is general information, not financial, tax, legal or immigration advice.