Moving and Relocating to Singapore work with a Property Consultant
Singapore consistently ranks among the top destinations for expatriates considering relocation. In 2021, it was placed 5th in the Internations survey, following Kuala Lumpur, Malaga, Dubai, and Sydney. Notably, Singapore secured the 3rd spot in the Quality of Urban Living Index and topped the Safety & Politics Subcategory. The Global Peace Index also lists it as the 7th safest country globally. Given the positive feedback from residents, these high rankings are expected.
At BUYCONDO.sg we’ve observed a significant trend of families moving to Singapore. In response, we’ve collaborated with our team and partners to create a comprehensive guide for families relocating to Singapore with children.
This extensive guide includes essential information on paperwork, education, taxes, visas, and family-friendly neighborhoods. Feel free to share, print, or save this invaluable resource!
In Particular, our team handles the real estate part that helps expatriates to find their new homes in Singapore.
Recently, we leased out a condominium in the North with 3 bedrooms whose family requirements is to be near Singapore American School(SAS) for their kids preschool.
**More Resources for Living and Moving to Singapore:**
– **Singapore Quick Facts:** Key information you need to know!
**About Singapore:**
– **Population (2024):** 5.6 million
– **Currency:** Singapore Dollars (SGD)
– **Languages:** Malay (National), Singlish, English, Tamil, Mandarin
– **Ethnic Makeup (2019):** 76% Chinese, 15% Malay, 7.5% Indian, 1.5% Others
– **Power Plug:** Type G (220-240 volts AC)
– **Safe Drinking Water:** Tap water is safe to drink.
– **WiFi and Connectivity:** SIM cards are available at the airport.
**Key Contact Numbers in Singapore:**
– **Ambulance Service:** 995
– **Non-emergency Ambulance:** 1777
– **Fire:** 995
– **Police:** 999
– **Traffic Police Hotline:** 1800 547 1818
**The Essentials for Moving to Singapore:**
People move to Singapore for various reasons, including job opportunities, business potential, and a better quality of life. Regardless of the reason, several requirements and processes must be fulfilled.
**Visas and Work Passes:**
– **Visas:** Required for entry into Singapore, with applications needing submission at least 30 days prior.
– **Work Passes:** Various passes are available depending on job roles and salary levels, such as Employment Pass (EP) for professionals and S Pass for mid-skilled staff.
**Key Tips Before Moving:**
– Ensure all documents, especially for work passes, are prepared.
– Early school applications for children are recommended.
– Be ready for upfront rental costs and individual tax submissions.
**Transportation in Singapore:**
Singapore’s compact size and efficient public transportation make getting around straightforward. The MRT and bus systems are well-connected, and taxis are easily accessible.
– **Driving:** Requirements include a valid driver’s license and an International Driving Permit (IDP).
– **Trains and Buses:** Operate from 5 am to midnight, with discounted fares available.
– **Taxis:** Designated stands are the best places to hail a taxi.
**Job Hunting in Singapore:**
The job market is competitive, and positions with salaries below SGD 15,000/month must be advertised locally before being offered to foreigners.
Choosing a neighborhood may depend on proximity to work or schools. Singapore is divided into five districts, each offering unique living experiences.
**Utilities and Connectivity:**
Setting up utilities involves opening an SP Group account, and various WiFi providers offer competitive plans. Mobile phone plans are available for both SIM-only and bundled options.
**Family Life:**
Singapore offers excellent educational opportunities and numerous child-friendly activities. International schools provide diverse curriculums, and there are plenty of recreational options for families.
**Taxes and Retirement:**
Income in Singapore is taxable, with the amount depending on residency status and earnings. The Central Provident Fund (CPF) is a mandatory savings scheme for retirement.
Potential Questions:
1. What are the visa requirements for moving to Singapore?
For Work: Moving and Relocating to Singapore work with a Property Consultant
- Employment Pass (EP):
- For foreign professionals, managers, and executives.
- Applicants need a job offer in Singapore and must meet certain salary and qualifications criteria.
- Typically for jobs paying at least SGD 4,500 per month.
- S Pass:
- For mid-skilled technical staff.
- Requires a monthly salary of at least SGD 2,500 and relevant qualifications.
- EntrePass:
- For foreign entrepreneurs wanting to start and operate a business in Singapore.
- Applicants must meet specific business requirements and have a registered company in Singapore.
- Personalised Employment Pass (PEP):
- For high-earning existing Employment Pass holders or overseas foreign professionals.
- Not tied to a specific employer and allows greater job flexibility.
Personalised Employment Pass (PEP):
- Purpose:
- Designed for high-earning existing Employment Pass holders or overseas foreign professionals.
- Provides more flexibility than a standard Employment Pass.
- Eligibility:
- Available to current Employment Pass holders earning at least SGD 12,000 per month or overseas professionals earning at least SGD 18,000 per month.
- Not tied to a specific employer, allowing for job changes without affecting the pass status.
- Flexibility:
- Allows the holder to stay in Singapore for up to six months between jobs to evaluate new employment opportunities.
- Valid for three years and not renewable, but holders can apply for other types of passes if they continue working in Singapore.
In summary, while both the One Pass and PEP offer flexibility and are not tied to a specific employer, they target different groups of professionals and have different eligibility criteria. The One Pass is more focused on attracting global talent with exceptional achievements, whereas the PEP is aimed at high-earning professionals already working or intending to work in Singapore.
For Study:
- Student Pass:
- Required for foreign students accepted into full-time courses in Singapore.
- Applicants must be accepted by an approved educational institution.
For Family:
- Dependent Pass:
- For spouses and children of Employment Pass or S Pass holders.
- The main pass holder must meet a minimum salary requirement.
- Long Term Visit Pass:
- For parents, common-law spouses, stepchildren, or handicapped children of eligible Employment Pass or S Pass holders.
General Requirements:
- Visa Application:
- Applications must be submitted at least 30 days before the intended date of entry.
- A valid passport, recent passport-sized photographs, and supporting documents (e.g., educational certificates, employment letters) are typically required.
- Entry Visa:
- Nationals from certain countries may require an entry visa to enter Singapore.
The One Pass is a new type of work pass introduced by Singapore to attract top-tier global talent across various industries. Here’s an overview of the One Pass:
One Pass Overview:
- Purpose:
- Designed to attract highly skilled individuals with a strong track record of success in their respective fields.
- Aims to enhance Singapore’s competitiveness by bringing in talent that can contribute to the economy and create jobs.
- Eligibility:
- Typically targeted at individuals with outstanding achievements in areas such as business, arts, culture, science, and technology.
- Applicants must demonstrate significant contributions or leadership in their industry.
- Benefits:
- Offers greater flexibility compared to other work passes.
- Not tied to a specific employer, allowing holders to work for multiple companies or start their own business.
- Provides opportunities for holders to sponsor family members to live in Singapore.
- Validity:
- Generally issued for a longer duration compared to standard work passes, allowing for more stability and planning.
The One Pass is part of Singapore’s strategy to position itself as a global hub for talent and innovation. For the most accurate and detailed information, including specific eligibility criteria and application procedures, it’s recommended to consult the official website of the Ministry of Manpower (MOM) or contact relevant authorities in Singapore.
Key Tips Before Moving to Singapore:
Moving to a new country can be both exciting and challenging. Here are some essential tips to ensure a smooth transition to Singapore:
- Document Preparation: Ensure you have all necessary documents, especially if you’re arriving with a work pass. Missing documents can cause delays.
- School Enrollment for Children: If you have children, apply early for their school enrollment, as spots are limited and fill up quickly. Consider options such as:
- International Schools
- Preschools and Kindergartens
- Playgroups
- Affordable Schools
- Renting: Be prepared to pay up to three months’ rent upfront when renting a property. (Two Months shall be as Security Deposit and One Month for Advance Rental)
- Taxes: Taxes in Singapore are filed individually twice a year. Confirm whether your employer will handle this for you.
- Driving: Obtain an International Driving Permit (IDP) from your home country. It’s valid for one year upon arrival in Singapore.
- Health Precautions: Use mosquito repellents to protect against dengue and chikungunya, both present in Singapore. A COVID-19 vaccine is mandatory.
- Transportation: Singapore’s public transportation system is efficient and user-friendly.
- Taxis: Use designated taxi stands or street-hail taxis outside the CBD. Ride-hail options include Grab, Gojek, Ryde, and TADA.
- Trains (MRT & LRT): The MRT has over 130 stations and is expanding. Trains run from 5:30 am to midnight, with extended hours during festivities. Use an EZ Link card or contactless payment for convenience.
- Buses: Buses provide scenic city views and are economical. Pay with an EZ Link card or exact cash. The MyTransport.SG app helps with planning routes.
- Cycling: Singapore offers 460 km of cycling paths, with plans to expand to 800 km. Popular routes include Ang Mo Kio – Lornie and Marina Bay – Rochor.
- Ferries: For weekend getaways to Indonesia, use the Tanah Merah Ferry Terminal. The Harbourfront Ferry Terminal is currently not servicing regional ferry operations.
By addressing these key areas, you can ensure a more seamless and enjoyable experience as you settle into life in Singapore.
Job Hunting and Living in Singapore: A Comprehensive Guide
Job Hunting in Singapore
Moving to Singapore without a prior job offer can be challenging due to the competitive job market.
As of 2024, there have been some updates to the job advertisement requirements and employment pass regulations in Singapore:
- Job Posting Requirement: Starting from September 1, 2024, employers must ensure that all candidates are considered fairly before applying for an Employment Pass. This is part of the efforts to promote fair employment practices in Singapore. The job must still be advertised on the national jobs portal to ensure transparency and equal opportunity for local candidates.
- Fair Consideration Framework (FCF): Employers are required to adhere to the Fair Consideration Framework, which mandates advertising job vacancies on the MyCareersFuture portal for at least 14 days before an Employment Pass application can be submitted. This framework aims to ensure that employers give due consideration to local candidates before hiring foreign workers.
Tips for Job Hunting as a Foreigner:
- Internal Transfers: If you work for an international company with a branch in Singapore, requesting an overseas transfer might be the simplest way to enter the system. Keep an eye on openings and communicate your interest to your local HR department.
- Plan Your Visit: If you plan to visit Singapore for job hunting, arrange interviews in advance. Arriving without scheduled interviews is not advisable due to the lengthy application process. Job fairs might not be effective for foreign applicants.
- Online Job Portals: Use platforms like LinkedIn, Indeed, JobsDB, and JobStreet. Filter out jobs requiring Singapore Permanent Resident (PR) or citizenship.
- Networking: Building connections remains a valuable method for gathering information and opportunities. Networking can lead to unexpected opportunities.
Living in Singapore
Choosing a Neighborhood:
Singapore is divided into five districts: North, Northeast, East, West, and Central. Each district has its unique charm, and your choice may depend on proximity to work, schools, or lifestyle preferences.
Property Agencies:
Deciding whether to buy or rent is crucial. Foreigners can purchase executive condominiums (ECs) that are at least 10 years old and private apartments. However, government approval is required for any property purchase.
Renting a Property:
- Budget and Location: Consider your budget and the location’s proximity to your workplace. Central areas are pricier but may save commuting time.
- Documents Required: Ensure you have a work permit or documents validating your long-term stay when renting.
- Contracts: Familiarize yourself with the Letter of Intent (LOI) and Tenancy Agreement (TA). Clarify any vague terms before signing.
- Payment and Deposits: Be prepared for upfront costs, typically one month’s advance rent and one month’s deposit. Always request a receipt for cash payments.
- Maintenance: Discuss responsibilities for air conditioner servicing and minor repairs with the landlord.
Utilities and WiFi Setup: Moving and Relocating to Singapore work with a Property Consultant
Set up utilities through SP Group for convenience, even if you don’t use all their services. For WiFi, choose a provider based on contract length and freebies offered.
Schools and Family Life:
Singapore offers top-ranked educational institutions and a variety of child-friendly activities. Explore options for schools and entertainment to ensure a fulfilling family life.
Hiring Domestic Helpers and Home Services:
Consider hiring domestic helpers or utilizing home services for convenience. Various companies offer services ranging from cleaning to handyman tasks.
Contact us to get your new home in Singapore.
