# 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.

_Updated 2026-07-09_

Source: /resources/glossary/cdd

**In short:** Customer Due Diligence (CDD) is the process by which a corporate service provider identifies and verifies its customer, understands the nature of the business, and identifies the beneficial owners — before and during the business relationship. It is a core anti-money-laundering / countering-financing-of-terrorism (AML/CFT) obligation.

## 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.

## Sources

- [ACRA — AML/CFT for corporate service providers](https://www.acra.gov.sg)
- [MAS — Anti-money laundering and countering the financing of terrorism](https://www.mas.gov.sg/regulation/anti-money-laundering)

## Related

- [EDD — Enhanced Due Diligence (glossary)](/resources/glossary/edd)
- [RQI (glossary)](/resources/glossary/rqi)
- [Nominee Director (glossary)](/resources/glossary/nominee-director)