Singapore Country Guide
Your Complete Guide to Moving, Living & Working in Singapore

Important: This guide provides essential relocation information for individuals and families moving to the Republic of Singapore. A global financial and logistics hub, Singapore is known for its safety, efficient public services, advanced healthcare system and strong job market in finance, technology, logistics, aviation, life sciences and professional services. Visa rules, work passes and residency policies can change, so always confirm details with official Singapore government sources before relocating.

Home To Home Relocations supports clients across Toronto, the GTA and Ontario with international moves to Singapore, including export packing, air and sea freight, customs coordination and final delivery to areas such as Orchard, Marina Bay, River Valley, Holland Village, Bukit Timah, Jurong and Tampines.

1. Before You Move to Singapore

1.1 Visa Types, Work Passes & Entry

All foreigners who wish to work or reside long-term in Singapore require a valid pass (work or residence pass). Short-term visitors may need a visa depending on nationality. Visa and entry requirements are overseen by the Immigration & Checkpoints Authority (ICA). :contentReference[oaicite:0]{index=0}

Common work and residence passes administered by the Ministry of Manpower (MOM) include: :contentReference[oaicite:1]{index=1}

Employment Pass (EP) – for foreign professionals, managers and executives meeting minimum salary and qualifications
S Pass – for mid-level skilled staff
Work Permit – mainly for semi-skilled or basic-skilled workers in specific sectors
EntrePass – for eligible foreign entrepreneurs starting innovative businesses
Dependant’s Pass – for spouses and children of eligible EP and S Pass holders
Long-Term Visit Pass – for certain family members who do not qualify for a Dependant’s Pass

Tip: Your prospective employer in Singapore usually applies for your work pass. Do not resign or relocate until you have written confirmation that your pass is approved.

1.2 Working in Singapore

Singapore’s core industries include:

Banking, wealth management & insurance
Technology, fintech & cybersecurity
Biotech, pharmaceuticals & med-tech
Logistics, shipping & aviation
Professional services & corporate HQs
Education, research & higher learning
Hospitality, MICE and tourism

1.3 Housing & Accommodation

Housing options range from private condominiums and landed houses to public Housing & Development Board (HDB) flats. Many newcomers begin with a serviced apartment or short-term rental while exploring neighbourhoods.

Typical rental requirements:

Passport copy and employment details
Security deposit (commonly 1–2 months)
Stamped tenancy agreement
Evidence of work pass approval for longer leases

1.4 Banking & Finances

The local currency is the Singapore Dollar (SGD). To open a local bank account, you may need:

Passport
In-principle approval or issued work pass
Local address
Tax identification details if applicable

1.5 Healthcare & Medical Insurance

Singapore has a highly regarded healthcare system with universal coverage for citizens and permanent residents through schemes such as MediShield Life and MediSave, complemented by private insurance options. :contentReference[oaicite:2]{index=2}

Important: Work Permit and S Pass holders must be covered by employer-provided medical insurance. Employers are strongly encouraged (and in some cases required) to provide health coverage for other pass holders too. Always check the exact coverage in your employment contract. :contentReference[oaicite:3]{index=3}

1.6 Key Documents to Prepare Before Moving

Passport with sufficient validity and blank pages
Work pass in-principle approval or visa confirmation, where required
Employment contract and salary details
Educational certificates and transcripts
Marriage and birth certificates for dependants
Recent passport photos, CV and reference letters (often requested)

2. Your First Weeks in Singapore

2.1 Arrival & Immigration Clearance

At Changi Airport, you will clear immigration under the supervision of the Immigration & Checkpoints Authority (ICA), which manages border security and entry checks. :contentReference[oaicite:4]{index=4}

2.2 Issuing Your Work Pass & FIN

After arrival, most work pass holders must:

Undergo a medical examination if required
Register fingerprints and photo (biometrics)
Collect their physical pass card, which contains a Foreign Identification Number (FIN)

2.3 Setting Up Essentials

Mobile plan & SIM card
Bank account activation
Utilities: electricity, water and gas (often handled via SP Group or included in rent)
Wi-Fi and fibre broadband for home

3. Singapore at a Glance

3.1 Geography & Neighbourhoods

Singapore is a compact island city-state in Southeast Asia, with distinct districts including the Central Business District, Orchard Road, Marina Bay, East Coast, Jurong, Woodlands and Changi.

3.2 Politics & Economy

Singapore is a parliamentary republic with a highly developed, trade-dependent economy. It is a major global centre for finance, shipping, aviation, logistics, technology and regional headquarters operations.

3.3 Climate & Weather

Singapore has a tropical climate — hot and humid year-round with frequent showers. There are no distinct seasons, but rainfall patterns vary slightly through the year.

4. Why Many Canadians Choose Singapore

Stable, pro-business environment and strong rule of law
World-class airport, connectivity and infrastructure
Highly ranked in safety and quality of life indices
Dynamic job market in finance, tech, aviation and logistics
English is an official working language, easing integration

5. Housing, Cost of Living & Daily Life

Singapore’s cost of living can be high, particularly for rent, cars and schooling, but quality of public services and safety are also very high. Typical expenses include:

Rent for condominium or HDB flat
Utilities and air-conditioning (electricity can be a major cost)
Public transport or taxi/ride-hailing fares
Groceries and dining (hawker centres vs restaurants)
International or private school fees if applicable

6. Transportation & Getting Around

6.1 Public Transport

Singapore has an excellent integrated public transport system:

MRT (Mass Rapid Transit) trains cover most residential and business areas
Extensive bus network with contactless payment
Taxis and ride-hailing apps (Grab, Gojek, ComfortDelGro)

6.2 Driving in Singapore

Singapore drives on the left-hand side. Car ownership is expensive due to the Certificate of Entitlement (COE) system, so many expatriates rely on public transport instead.

6.3 Air Travel

Changi Airport is one of the world’s busiest international hubs, with extensive connections throughout Asia, Europe, the Middle East and North America. :contentReference[oaicite:5]{index=5}

7. Culture, Lifestyle & Places to Visit

7.1 Everyday Culture

Singapore is multicultural, with Chinese, Malay, Indian and other communities
Four official languages: English, Mandarin, Malay and Tamil
Food culture is central, with hawker centres throughout the island
Cleanliness, order and respect for laws are strongly emphasized

7.2 Popular Districts & Attractions

Marina Bay & CBD: Marina Bay Sands, Gardens by the Bay
Orchard Road: Shopping malls and hotels
Chinatown, Little India & Kampong Gelam: Heritage districts and temples
Sentosa Island: Resorts, beaches and theme attractions
East Coast Park: Cycling, jogging and seaside dining

Singapore Country GuideYour Complete Guide to Moving, Living & Working in Singapore