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What is CDD (Customer Due Diligence) in Singapore? (2026)

CDD is the process of identifying and verifying a customer and its beneficial owners before providing corporate services — a core AML/CFT obligation.

By The CorpSec.app Compliance Team, Singapore corporate secretarial & compliance·Updated 2026-07-09
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What does CDD involve?

CDD typically includes identifying the customer and verifying their identity from reliable documents or data, identifying beneficial owners, understanding the purpose and intended nature of the relationship, and conducting ongoing monitoring of transactions.

  • Identify and verify the customer’s identity.
  • Identify the beneficial owners and verify where appropriate.
  • Understand the purpose and nature of the relationship.
  • Conduct ongoing monitoring throughout the relationship.

Who must perform CDD?

Corporate service providers and other regulated entities in Singapore must perform CDD as part of their AML/CFT obligations. Where the risk of money laundering is higher, Enhanced Due Diligence (EDD) is required. Confirm the current CDD/EDD obligations against ACRA and MAS AML/CFT guidance, as the detailed measures are set by regulation.

Frequently asked questions

Is CDD a one-time check at onboarding?

No — it includes ongoing monitoring of transactions throughout the business relationship, not only an initial check.

What is the difference between CDD and EDD?

CDD is the standard, baseline level of due diligence. Enhanced Due Diligence (EDD) is required on top of CDD when the risk of money laundering is higher.

Who has to perform CDD in Singapore?

Corporate service providers and other regulated entities, as part of their AML/CFT (anti-money-laundering / countering-the-financing-of-terrorism) obligations.

Sources

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This article is general information for Singapore corporate service providers, not legal or professional advice. Verify against the primary sources above and your own professional judgement.

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