Moving to Singapore

   Moving to Singapore

Things to know before moving to Singapore

Singapore is a city-state located at the southern tip of the Malay Peninsula located in Southeast Asia. It consists of the diamond-shaped Singapore Island and some 60 small islets. Singapore is in the equatorial monsoon region of Southeast Asia, and its climate is characterized by uniformly high temperatures and nearly constant precipitation throughout the year

The city has a very good reputation for expat life. Indeed, in 2018 it was ranked the world’s best destination for expats by HSBC. Singapore can pride itself on several things such as the excellent sea, air, and telecommunication networks. Speaking about air telecommunication, Changi International Airport serves over 70 million travelers annually and is one of the world’s 20 busiest passenger airports. 

Due to the strict regulations adopted over the years, Singapore is one of the most peaceful and cleanest cities to live in. 

Its stable currency and multiculturalism make it appealing for expats moving to the country. However, lifestyle can be quite fast-paced. 

Singapore has a deep multicultural soul. The overall population is about  5.7 million and comprises a majority of Chinese (76%), followed by Malays, Indians, and Eurasians. 

The cosmopolitan soul of the city is also reflected in the many religions practiced: Buddhism, Islam, Hinduism, and Christianity just to mention a few. 

Singapore’s schooling system is internationally recognized and has a laudable literacy rate of 96.5% in its population. Learning English is compulsory and it is the most commonly-used language in the country.

Why should you consider moving to Singapore?

• Singapore Provides Incredible Business Opportunities for Expatriates
• Singapore Has a Low Tax Rate. Singapore’s personal tax system is drastically simpler than much of the rest of the world and requires that individuals pay a nominal tax rate compared to many other countries.
• Minimal Crime Rates. The country was ranked 8th in the world for crime rates in 2015. This is largely due to their strict punishments for bribery, drug offenses, and less severe offenses like cheating on a partner, which can result in one year of imprisonment.
• An Outstanding Education System. With 20% of government spending going directly into education, Singapore is a great place for anyone interested in continuing their education. The National University of Singapore currently ranks 11th in the world for higher education. Graduate programs cost an average of $22,000 per year, but government grants have the potential to reduce that cost by up to 50% and are available to both domestic and international students.
• The healthcare system in Singapore is ranked among the best in the world. 
• The country also serves as a hub for travel throughout Asia, with affordable flights regularly available for flying to Southeast Asia.

General tips

1. Chewing gum, tobacco and alcohol are also high on the list of prohibited items.
2. Because of its small size, Singapore has invested heavily in public transport infrastructure. The trains, in particular, are cheap and efficient. Delays are rare,
3. Singapore has a hot tropical climate. With temperatures above 30 degrees Celsius, winter clothing is unnecessary.
4. Many people move to Singapore because their companies ask them to do so. But if yours did not and you are making the move on your own, it is important to have a job first.