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Whether you’re being moved to Singapore for work or are considering starting a new chapter in your life by moving there, there are a few different things to consider before moving to Singapore.
Singapore is a city-state that is a firm favorite destination for not only tourists but also individuals who are interested in setting up businesses, investing in property, and more. There are lots of amazing things to do, fantastic food and drink, shopping opportunities, and plenty of opportunities for finding work or starting a business if you’re thinking of starting a new life there.
Moving to Singapore Considerations:
Finances
While Singapore was listed as the most expensive city in the world for four consecutive years, it’s not as expensive as you might expect, and if you are savvy, you can live quite cheaply here. There are lot of luxuries available here including high-end experiences and imported foods, but if you can go without them or keep your spending low when it comes to these things then you can stretch your money further than you might think. Getting food locally is usually your best option as it’s fairly affordable, and when it comes to getting around, the public transport in Singapore is not only cheap, but also one of the most reliable in the world. If you are working in Singapore, the tax here is also much lower compared to other parts of the world, so you can keep more of your income.
Finding Work
If you are hoping to relocate to Singapore permanently or are thinking of living there long-term to find work, then the best thing to do is try and get a job offer before you arrive in the country. This is because it is usually much harder to try and find a job once you have already arrived in Singapore due to the country’s strict employment laws. There are limits in place regarding foreigners working and local people are given priority. Your best option is usually to get a job offer before you arrive or secure work with an international company that will be able to relocate you to Singapore when you are hired. You will need to apply for an employment pass from the Ministry of Manpower.
Housing
Another key factor to consider before making your move to Singapore is finding somewhere to live. If you want to buy property in Singapore then you can learn more about a CIMB home loan and other options that may be available to you as an ex-pat at Property Guru. Property Guru is the top property search site for Singapore so it’s definitely worth visiting to learn more about the process of buying or renting a property in the country and find properties listed for sale or rent. Property prices here can be fairly high compared to other nearby countries so it’s a good idea to start as early as possible to make it easier for you to find somewhere that suits your budget and needs.
Climate
Singapore has a very hot climate, and while this might be appealing to most people, it’s also worth bearing in mind that it can take some getting used to, especially if you are from a country or area with a colder climate. Its location at just one degree north of the equator means that Singapore has a very tropical climate with consistent high temperatures. It can also get quite humid making the hot weather feel even hotter. Keep this in mind before you arrive – while the good news is that most buildings in this country are well equipped with air-conditioning, you will need to pack lots of loose, light clothing and sunscreen for when you need to go out in the sun.
Transportation
When it comes to getting around in Singapore, the public transport is definitely the best option. Most people do not drive a car here, since the island is relatively small, and the public transport is cheap and reliable. Compared to driving in other countries, getting a car in Singapore is a very expensive experience. Along with car prices here being higher in comparison to elsewhere, there are also other large costs that you will need to consider before you buy a car, including getting a Certificate of Entitlement which can sometimes be around the same price or even more than the car itself. The good news is that the public transport is one of the most reliable in the world; short delays of 10-20 minutes here will sometimes make the news simply because they are so rare. And since it’s such a popular way to get around, the island is built for public transport, making it a fast and convenient option.
Singapore is a fantastic country to move to if you’re interested in living in a warm climate and enjoying an interesting and welcoming culture. Leave a comment below when you’re moving to Singapore.
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