Expat Guides

Relocating to Singapore

Before Moving to Singapore we recommend you ask your self why? As one of the most modern cities in Asia, Singapore successfully blends Malay, Chinese, Arab, Indian and English cultures and religions. Apart from its excellent  tertiary services, Singapore is renounced as a disciplined city-state. Its strict law  guarantees the discipline of citizens, which make Singapore as the safest city in Asia. Also, Singapore enjoys the weather with sunshine for the whole year. These qualities lift up Singapore as one of the favourite places for expats.

Singapore is a city which always desperate for foreign talents. It is always easy to seek a new career opportunity as an expat. As a foreign worker, you do not need to bear any national services. It is also easier for you to improve your living standard under a lower living cost. Therefore, why not Singapore?

Working in Singapore – Moving to Singapore

Working environment

Moving to Singapore – It is common to have multi-national, multi-cultural and multi-religion workplace, especially in bigger companies. Official communication are mostly done in English. However, there is a high usage of Mandarin among Chinese on non-work related issues. Such situations are similar among your Malays colleague.

Generally speaking, workplace relationships are professional in nature. It is uncommon for co-workers having gathering or socialization. You will find the working week is longer in Singapore. The average of working hour in Singapore is 50 hours per week. Moving to Singapore will allow you to keep a good balance of work and play, you may work slightly harder but you will play harder also!

Finding a Job

Moving to Singapore – There are plenty of career opportunities in Singapore. However, as Singapore attracts more expats in recent years, the process of job-hunting is getting more competitive. Therefore, with your previous experiences in Asia or your own specialty, you are more likely to get your dream job.

Applying for working permit

Moving to Singapore – Most of the expats who want to work in Singapore will require a Employment Pass Scheme(EP). It is the main type of work permit meant for company owners or skilled employees who will be working in Singapore. Your fixed monthly salary must be more than S$3,000 and you should be a degree holder from a reputable university. An EP is initially issued for 1-2 years and renewable as long as the applicant continues to be employed by the company. There is no quota official system for EPs. Moreover, all EP holders are eligible to apply for Permanent Residence in due course.

Taxation

Moving to Singapore – Singapore has one of the most favorable tax systems in the world. The maximum individual income tax rate is low in comparison to other developed countries.(15-20%)

More on your daily life in Singapore

Do I need to take a lot of luggage or necessities for relocation?

There is nothing you can’t get in Singapore that you would have back home. Most of the top international brands are here, ranging from clothing, food and other products. From Starbucks to Adidas to Zara,  all the top-end designers are here.

Housing

Most expats in Singapore live in private condominiums for due to the availability of recreational facilities such as swimming pools, playgrounds for children and secured access. The rent can be among S$3000 to 15000, which depends on the district of the property. If you have a tighter budget on housing, a government housing flat (HDB flats) is a very reasonable option. More than 80% of the local Singaporeans live in HDB flats. Most of the flats are proximate to social facilities such as banks, schools and bus stations

Transportation

The fastest mode of transit in Singapore is the Mass Rapid Transit (MRT), which is Singapore’s subway. It has great access to almost everypart of Singapore. It is cheap, efficient, fast and clean in comparison to most of the rail networks around the world.

If you have a valid foreign licence and International Driving Permit (IDP) issued by an authorised body in your country of origin, you are then allowed to drive in Singapore.

Strict Laws

You have to beware of the strict laws in Singapore.For instance, no chewing gums are allowed in the country. Littering and smoking in the public areas can also result in expensive fine.  Given the strict drug laws, there isn’t seem to be exposure to drugs in the schools. People often see such strict laws as benefits. They guarantee your safety to stay out with your friends even after dark.

Climate and Weather

Singapore has a tropical rain-forest climate with no distinctive seasons. The average temperature through out the year is around 30°C. In other words, although sometimes there can be heavy rainfalls, it will be more often for you to enjoy the sunshine.

Life as an Expat

Singaporeans are generally very comfortable with diversity and have been very welcoming to foreigners. For instance, if you ask for directions on the street, Singaporeans are always willing to help. Also, expats generally think that their kids can blend into local kids easily. These make a harmonic atmosphere in the community. With the great accessibility of services and facilities during day and night with high safety, you will enjoy your life as an expat in Singapore.

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