A Comprehensive Guide on Moving to Singapore

Jump right in:

• Frequently asked questions about Singapore
• Moving to Singapore checklist
• Visa types & work permit requirements
• Relocating your household goods & pets
• Finding housing in Singapore
• Jobs & finding work in Singapore
• Opening a bank account & managing your taxes
• Health insurance & the healthcare system of Singapore explained
• Education & international schools in Singapore
• Way of life in Singapore

In this section you can find frequently asked general questions about Singapore with detailed answers.

Is it worth relocating to Singapore? Is it good for expats?

According to our Expat Insider 2025 data Singapore ranks 32nd out of 46 countires when it comes to overall ranking of countries for expats to live in. While Singapore ranks 14th in the quality-of-life index, when it come to work and leisure it takes the 44th place and and 41st in the personal finance index. Overall, whether moving to Singapore is "worth it" depends on the person, lifestyle preferences, and what you're seeking from the move. Singapore has great infrastructure, and is one of the safest cities to live in. However, the high cost of living and strict regulations may not suit everyone. Therefore, evaluating your needs before moving is crucial.

Is it hard to move to Singapore?

Moving to Singapore can be challenging, but not too hard if you plan well. If you already have a secured job offer and meet the visa rules, the process is usually smooth. Singapore is very organized, with good systems for housing, transport, and banking, which makes settling in easier. However, getting a work visa has become more difficult in the recent years, especially if you’re not in a high-demand job or don’t have relevant skills. Living in Singapore can also be expensive, especially when it comes to rent and schools. So while the move is not impossible, it’s important to have a clear plan and enough savings before you go.

Here you can access a Moving to Singapore Checklist prepared with the most important errands you have to make sure are done to have a smooth move.

• Ensure your passport is valid for at least 6 months;
• Apply for and secure the appropriate visa or work pass (e.g., Employment Pass, S Pass, Student Pass, Dependant Pass);
• Make copies of important documents (birth certificate, marriage certificate, academic records, etc;
• Get passport-sized photos for ID and permits;
• Arrange temporary accommodation (e.g., hotel, Airbnb);
• Open a Singapore bank account (some allow pre-arrival setup);
• Research the cost of living and plan a budget;
• Hire a reputable international moving company;
• Get insurance for shipped items and valuables;
• Research different neighborhoods in Singapore;
• Find long-term rental housing (HDB, condo, or landed property);
• Sign a lease and set up utilities (electricity, water, gas, internet);
• Collect your visa/work pass/student pass after arrival;
• Register your local residential address with the authorities;
• Apply for SingPass (your digital ID for accessing government services);
• Set up GIRO for automated payments like rent and utilities;
• Get an EZ-Link or SimplyGo card for MRT and bus transport;
• Register with a local doctor or clinic;
• Buy health insurance (private or through employer);
• Learn about CPF (Central Provident Fund) if you're a permanent resident or long-term resident;
• Find and enroll children in school or preschool if applicable;
• Arrange for childcare or domestic help if needed;
• Join local or expat communities and social groups;
• Familiarize yourself with local customs, public holidays, and etiquette;

In this section, we cover everything you need to know about how to get a Singapore employment visa. One of the biggest stresses for expats moving to Singapore is understanding the type of visa they need to relocate. Figuring out how to then get that visa is a close second. 

This guide explores both employment and S passes, as well as the  EntrePass  scheme.  Timelines for the Singapore visa application process are covered, as well as detailed information on the Singapore visa requirements and documentation a potential employee needs to prepare.  We also look in-depth at whether self-employment visas are available in Singapore (short answer: no).

One key area of interest this guide explores is how to get permanent residency in  Singapore.  This will affect any expats who want to settle long-term in the country, or for at least three years. You can weigh the benefits of becoming a permanent resident and see if any dependents are able to do so as well.

Read our complete guide on visas & work permits in Singapore

Making the decision to move is a huge first step in the process of moving to Singapore. Once you do… what next? 

Our Relocation section makes everything clear. For instance, we look at moving your household goods to Singapore, including how to organize shipping  and storing  your belongings once they arrive, how to save yourself money on the furniture you import, which would usually be subject to a Goods and Services Tax.

For people who have never visited Asia before we provide a full list of  vaccinations required for Singapore. This is particularly important for children under the age of 21 who are coming to the country on a long-term visit pass.

If you want your cat or dog to join you in Singapore. we provide full information on everything to know about  moving to Singapore with pets. Things to consider before you move include if your animal will cope with the climate in Singapore, or if they will be legally allowed in your accommodation. Singapore authorities only allow up to three  approved  small  breed  dogs  per private residence, for instance.

Read our complete guide on relocating to Singapore

If your company is not providing you with housing, or you are looking for  accommodation in Singapore  by yourself, this is the guide for you.  Reading this section will give you the edge when competing for housing in a small island country.

Want to know  how to buy a house in Singapore as a foreigner?  This is the right place to look. Buying a house is complicated at the best of times.  In Singapore, you need to be aware of the restrictions in place for expats. Our experts have done all the intricate  research,  so you don’t have to.  What’s more, the housing in Singapore section offers average house prices as well as guidance on how to organize utilities in Singapore and how to get a housing loan. Everything you need, in one place.

Read our complete guide on housing in Singapore

Finding the dream job in  Singapore’s competitive job market  is not easy. foreigners must be highly skilled to achieve the  average salary  needed for visas. Moreover, it is difficult for expats who are  working as self-employed  to  even qualify for a visa.

If you want to work in Singapore as a foreigner, you should prepare yourself to wait to find the right opportunity. Be sure to apply to many job openings and attend as many interviews as possible.

For more insights on Jobs and Finding Work in Singapore read our full guide that covers it all.

A surprisingly time-consuming issue for expats is organizing banking in their new country.

With this guide,  opening a bank account in Singapore  becomes much  simpler. We provide a list of documents you will need to make sure your application is accepted as well as a list of foreigner-friendly banks.

Do you also want to know how much money will end up in your account? We guide you through  how much the tax is in Singapore.   You should know that to be a tax resident in Singapore, you will usually need to live in the country for over 183 days in a tax year.

Read our complete guide on banking & taxes in Singapore

Singapore has the most efficient healthcare system in the world, based on the latest Bloomberg health systems ranking. Expats rate the hospitals and services in the country very highly and see it as one of the many bonuses of moving to Lion City.  In this guide, we look at the differences between the public and private healthcare systems, including the costs involved with visiting  each type and common waiting times.  Day-to-day issues like  how to find a doctor are also explored. Plus, there is guidance about giving birth in Singapore and the benefits that working parents are entitled to.

A key take-away is that getting insured is important.  As non-residents, expats need  assistance  with  the  healthcare system and health insurance in Singapore.  Read this guide for full and clear explanations of what expats need to check for in the coverage provided by their work and the types of private health insurance available.

Read our complete guide on insurance & healthcare in Singapore

In Singapore students can study for qualifications including GCSE’s and A-Levels, the American High School Diploma, and International Bachelaureate and more.

Singapore citizens are forbidden to attend international schools without prior permission from the MOE, so all local children are split into pathways like this. The three “streams” based on abilities are: Normal (Academic stream, preparing for college), Normal (Technical stream, preparing for vocational qualifications), and Express or high achieving students who are expected to excel at university.

When it comes to higher education, Singapore has six autonomous universities, there is a range of degree subjects across the Bachelor's, Master's, and Doctoral  levels.  Considered to have one of the best education systems in Asia, the country is a popular destination for foreign business and engineering students.

This guide also covers information on kindergartens, primary and secondary schools and high schools. We offer insight into  the different options in the Singaporean education system. You can access the full guide here.

The nation offers amazing cultural opportunities, from incredible dining experiences to world-class golf courses and more. For others, Singapore is primarily an opportunity to climb the career ladder. They might be more interested in cultivating relationships through endless dinners and building their professional knowledge in the process. In our guide about living in Singapore, we explore pros and cons, practical information, culture and social etiquette and insights into driving and public transportation.

Although there are usually specific reasons behind the decision to relocate, such as pursuing career goals or living closer to family, you should also consider the bigger picture. We have compiled some key benefits and disadvantages of life in Singapore. You can access the full guide here.