When moving to one of Asia’s premier financial hubs, you have to prepare for all that it offers. From lavish spots to alluring sites, you are in for an adventure. However, it’s not enough to prepare mentally. The country is notoriously known for its strict laws and always-on culture.
Therefore, before you book with some of the top home movers in Singapore for transferring your goods. For now, take your time to go through the internet’s most searched questions about moving to the country.
Also, there’s a lot you cannot bring or would cost you a fortune to do so. So, ponder if you’d need a removal company in Singapore. But first, read on for more insights that you’d need as an expat.
What Is The Actual Cost Of Living For An Expat In Singapore?
If you are migrating solo, the average cost of monthly expenses is SGD 4500-7500, a major part of which goes into home rent. For a nuclear family, it’s nearly SGD 12,000. Further, it increases up to SGD 20,000. Housing and international schooling expenses are often high.
How Hard Is It To Secure An Employment Pass (EP) Or Work Visa?
The probability of passing COMPASS (a point-based evaluation for getting an Employee Pass) is high if you prepare early before migrating. Two outcomes that you can expect are-
- When you attempt, your employer can eliminate any guesswork by using the Ministry of Manpower’s (MOM) official Self-Assessment Tool (SAT) before submitting.
- Otherwise, if there’s a shortfall, your employer can adjust your salary accordingly or offer bonus points as per the Shortage Occupation List (SOL).
Is It Cheaper To Rent A Private Condo Or An HDB Flat?
For expats, renting a public HDB is significantly cheaper. It often costs 30-50% less than leasing/renting a private condo. There are several amenities you get access to with a private property, including pools, gyms, and 24/7 gated security. Also, the maintenance charges are higher.
Renting an HDB generally offers more space than a modern, compact condo. Also, the town council utility rates are cheaper.
Can Expats Easily Buy Property Or Land In Singapore?
Yes, expats can buy property in Singapore. Especially, owning private condominium units doesn’t require prior approval from the government. However, there’s a steep 60% Additional Buyer’s Stamp Duty (ABSD) when purchasing residential property as a foreigner.
So, if you can manage both the home movers in Singapore charges and crazy expensive housing, go ahead, the world is your oyster.
Which International Schools Have The Best Tuition Rates?
Institutions like Invictus and Middleton International offer quality education at lower, affordable rates. The tuition for the top-tier schools in Singapore can easily exceed SGD 40K annually. Besides, when you are planning a schooling budget for the move, always add extra costs.
It includes building facility charges, school bus fares and uniforms. The local public schools are incredibly affordable, but getting a slot is a challenge.
Is The Weather In Singapore Too Hot And Humid To Handle?
The weather is generally pleasant, but since it is a tropical island, it’s mostly summery throughout the year. You can expect low to moderate humidity from October to February. Humidity levels are high in the summer and monsoon.
When you hire a removal company in Singapore for the move and disposal, consider the humid weather for moving your electronics.
How Much Money Do I Need To Save Before Relocating To SG?
You must save for the large rental/leasing deposit, housing tax (4% of the total amount), and the security deposits. Moreover, stash away SGD 15-20K for initial settlement and the expenses for your first month after the move.
What Are The Best Expat-Friendly Neighbourhoods To Live In?
If it’s your first time in the country, altogether, then Holland Village is a highly popular neighbourhood among expats for its walkable European-style cafe streets. Tanjong Pagar is perfect for corporate professionals wanting sleek, high-rise condo living close to the CBD.
If you seek something high-end, you need to move to Orchard or Tanling. These towns are some of the lavish locations of the country, equipped with luxurious housing estates situated adjacent to the top-end shopping malls.
Is It Worth Importing My Car, Or Should I Use MRT (Mass Rapid Transit) Public Transport?
When in Singapore, do it as the locals do, and skip your car. The MRT network is entirely interconnected and offers seamless connectivity across the island. Transporting your car from a foreign country entails hefty customs duties.
There are also local taxis that are far cheaper than paying for car parking and fuel daily. Ditching your personal vehicle when migrating here might be a great idea.
How Safe Is Singapore For Solo Female Expats And Young Families?
Virtually, there are zero violent crimes against female visitors in the country. Besides, Singapore consistently ranks as one of the safest urban cities across Asia and the world. Solo female travellers can walk with peace of mind even at 3 am.
Also, the country has some of the strictest laws for any criminal behaviour, and there are multiple security cameras on the streets.
Takeaways
Finally, you are aware of the several aspects that might affect your move plans to the country. Also, when you hire home movers in Singapore for transferring your goods, ensure that they are a certified service with adequate licenses necessary for a large-scale international move.
For now, take your time pondering over all the newfound information and revamp your move plans accordingly.
