Moving to singapore

Planning a move to Singapore? Our complete guide covers work passes, neighbourhoods, healthcare, schools, living costs, customs and shipping your belongings from the UK.

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Your guide to moving to Singapore

Singapore combines a major international business centre with excellent public transport, widely spoken English and a high standard of services. Its warm climate, compact size and well-connected location also make it an appealing base for exploring Southeast Asia.

However, relocating to Singapore involves more than securing a job and booking a flight. You will need to consider your immigration status, accommodation, healthcare, schooling and the practicalities of moving your belongings more than 6,700 miles from the UK.

Starting early gives you more time to compare neighbourhoods, understand what your employment package covers and decide what should be shipped, stored, sold or donated.

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Explore our door-to-door removals to Singapore and request a tailored quote.

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Working in Singapore and arranging the correct pass

Foreign nationals must have an appropriate work pass before starting employment in Singapore. The correct route will depend on your role, salary, experience and circumstances.

The Employment Pass is commonly used for foreign professionals, managers and executives. Other options include the S Pass for eligible skilled workers, the EntrePass for qualifying entrepreneurs and the Overseas Networks & Expertise Pass for certain established talent.

Employers or authorised employment agents usually submit Employment Pass applications. Requirements, qualifying salaries and assessment criteria can change, so check the latest information from Singapore’s Ministry of Manpower rather than relying on an undated guide.

If you are moving for a new role, ask your employer when your application will be submitted, which costs it will cover and whether your move depends on the pass being formally approved.

Moving to Singapore with your family

Eligible Employment Pass and S Pass holders may be able to bring certain family members to Singapore. A Dependant’s Pass is generally used for an eligible legally married spouse and unmarried children under 21, while some other relatives may qualify for a Long-Term Visit Pass.

Eligibility depends on the main pass holder’s circumstances and current Ministry of Manpower requirements. A partner who wishes to work in Singapore may also need the appropriate work authorisation in their own right.

Before accepting a relocation package, check whether it includes support with family passes, school searches, temporary accommodation, medical insurance and the cost of moving household belongings.

Where to live in Singapore

Singapore is compact, but different neighbourhoods offer noticeably different lifestyles. Your workplace, school choices, budget and preferred property type should all influence your decision.

Tanglin

Leafy and well located, Tanglin is popular with international families and offers convenient access to Orchard Road, embassies and several international schools.

Holland Village

Holland Village has a lively, relaxed atmosphere with restaurants, shops and good transport connections. It is popular with professionals and families who want an established international community.

Bukit Timah

Known for larger homes, greenery and proximity to several schools, Bukit Timah can suit families seeking more space. Property costs can be higher than in less central areas.

Orchard and River Valley

These central locations offer convenient apartment and condominium living close to shopping, restaurants and the city centre. They can work well for professionals who prioritise a short commute and central lifestyle.

Novena

Novena provides easy access to the central area, healthcare facilities and public transport, with a mixture of modern condominiums and family accommodation.

East Coast

The East Coast is popular with families looking for a more relaxed feel, access to parks and the waterfront, and a choice of condominiums and houses. Check the commute carefully if you will work in the central or western districts.

Serangoon and Woodlands

These areas can provide more space for the budget and access to schools, shops and transport. Woodlands may be particularly practical for people who regularly travel to Malaysia.

Sentosa

Sentosa offers distinctive waterfront living and resort-style surroundings. It can be attractive for those seeking a premium lifestyle, although it is less convenient for some everyday journeys.

Visit potential neighbourhoods at different times of day before signing a tenancy, and test the journey to work or school rather than judging distance on a map alone.

Renting a home in Singapore

Most people relocating for work initially rent an apartment or condominium. Condominiums often include shared facilities such as a pool, gym and security, while landed homes can offer more space at a higher cost.

Before agreeing a tenancy, establish what is included, whether the property is furnished and who is responsible for maintenance. Check the storage available and measure entrances, corridors, stairways and lifts before deciding which UK furniture to ship.

Many condominium developments require residents to reserve a loading bay or service lift for a delivery. There may be restricted delivery hours, deposits or protective-covering requirements. Ask your landlord or managing agent for these details early so your removals team can plan the final delivery.

If you will spend your first weeks in temporary accommodation, Bishop’s Move can discuss storing some or all of your belongings until your permanent home is ready.

The Cost of Living in Singapore

The cost of relocating will depend heavily on your accommodation and lifestyle. Rent and international school fees can account for a significant proportion of a family’s budget, while everyday public transport and local food can be relatively affordable. It’s best to allow for:

Rent, deposits and agency costs
Utilities, internet and mobile services
Medical insurance and healthcare
Nursery or international school fees
Groceries and eating out

Public transport, taxis or car ownership
Flights back to the UK
Temporary accommodation
Shipping and storage

If you are relocating through work, ask for a complete written explanation of your allowance before choosing a property or booking your move. Confirm whether the company pays suppliers directly, reimburses you or provides a fixed amount.

Singapore’s personal tax position depends on factors including your residency status and income. Use the latest information from the Inland Revenue Authority of Singapore and seek professional advice if required.

Healthcare in Singapore

Singapore has high-quality public and private healthcare, but UK residents should not expect an NHS-style system providing most treatment without direct cost.

Check whether your employer provides private medical insurance and whether it covers your partner, children, existing medical conditions, outpatient appointments, dental treatment and maternity care. If the cover is limited, arrange suitable additional insurance before relocating.

Keep copies of prescriptions and medical records for ongoing conditions, and check the rules before bringing medication into Singapore. Some medicines that are routinely prescribed in the UK may require supporting documents or approval.

Schools and Education

Families can choose between Singapore’s local education system and a range of international schools. Availability, admissions criteria, fees and waiting lists vary considerably.

Start researching schools as early as possible and consider:

Curriculum and qualifications
Application dates and waiting lists
Registration, tuition and transport fees
Distance from your preferred neighbourhood
School-bus routes and journey times
Support for children joining during the academic year
Whether your employer contributes towards school fees

Your school choice may affect where it makes most sense to live, so consider accommodation and education together rather than as separate decisions.

Singapore’s Climate and What to Pack

Singapore has a tropical climate, with warm temperatures, high humidity and regular rainfall throughout the year. Heavy showers can develop quickly, while homes, offices, shopping centres and public transport are often strongly air-conditioned.

Lightweight, breathable clothing will be useful, along with waterproof footwear, umbrellas and light layers for air-conditioned buildings. You may need fewer heavy winter clothes than in the UK, although keeping some in storage can be sensible if you expect to travel home regularly.

Humidity is also worth considering when deciding what to ship. Books, artwork, musical instruments, leather items and some furniture may benefit from careful packing and climate-conscious storage.

Getting Around Singapore

Singapore’s MRT rail system and bus network make it possible for many residents to live without a car. Taxis and app-based private-hire vehicles are also widely available.

Importing and owning a vehicle can be expensive and involves registration, tax and eligibility requirements. Before shipping a UK car, compare the complete import and ownership costs with buying locally or relying on public transport.

Check the latest guidance from Singapore Customs and the Land Transport Authority before making a decision.

Bringing pets to Singapore

Pets can be brought to Singapore, but the requirements depend on the animal, country of export, vaccination history and travel arrangements. Import licences, veterinary documentation, vaccinations, parasite treatments, quarantine reservations or other steps may be required.

Begin planning well in advance and use the current Animal & Veterinary Service guidance. Personal pets may also be considered for GST relief when they form part of a genuine transfer of residence, but relief is assessed separately by Singapore Customs and is not automatic.

Tell the Bishop’s Move International team if you would like help arranging specialist pet relocation support.

Shipping your belongings from the UK to Singapore

When you are ready to organise the physical move, Bishop’s Move can arrange professional export packing, sea or air freight, customs support, storage and delivery to your new home.

Sea freight is normally the most economical option for furniture and larger household moves. Depending on the volume, this may use a dedicated 20ft or 40ft container or a shared-container service. Air freight is faster and is generally better suited to essential or smaller consignments.

Many customers combine the two: priority belongings travel by air while furniture and the main household shipment follow by sea.

For detailed shipping options, typical timescales and answers about removal costs, visit our dedicated removals to Singapore from the UK page.

Customs and GST relief for household belongings

Used household articles and personal effects imported into Singapore are subject to GST unless Singapore Customs grants relief.

You may qualify when transferring your residence if Singapore Customs is satisfied that:

You are moving your place of residence from outside Singapore.
You own the belongings being imported.
You have owned and used them for at least three months.
They are imported within six months of your first arrival in Singapore.
You will not sell, give away or dispose of them within three months of import.

GST relief is not automatic and is assessed case by case. For belongings travelling separately by sea or air freight, you or your appointed agent must submit the required Declaration of Facts before the goods arrive.
Alcohol, tobacco products, motor vehicles, boats, private aircraft and commercial goods do not qualify for this household-effects relief. Some other goods are prohibited or controlled and may require approval from the relevant Singapore authority.

Bishop’s Move and our destination partner will explain the shipping documentation required for your removal, but Singapore Customs makes the final decision on eligibility.

Relocating to Singapore with work

If your employer is funding your move, establish exactly what your relocation package covers before requesting quotations.

Ask about:

The permitted shipment volume or container size
Professional packing and unpacking
Air freight for essential belongings
Temporary storage in the UK or Singapore
Transit protection or removals insurance

Temporary accommodation
Flights and airport transfers
Immigration and family-pass support
School-search assistance
Whether several quotations are required

Bishop’s Move can coordinate your removal directly with you, your employer or an appointed relocation company. We can provide a detailed quotation for approval and work within the requirements of your company’s relocation policy, no matter whether the company pays directly, fully reimburses you or gives you a lump sum payment towards your moving costs.

Frequently asked questions about moving to Singapore

You will need the appropriate immigration or work status for the purpose and length of your stay. If you are moving for employment, your employer or authorised employment agent will normally apply for the relevant work pass. Always check current requirements with Singapore’s Ministry of Manpower and Immigration & Checkpoints Authority.

Yes – and that is our specialiaty! Used household furniture can be shipped by sea or air, subject to customs and import requirements. Measure your new property and check its access and storage before deciding what to take.

Yes, subject to Singapore’s current import, health and licensing requirements. Start the process early because vaccinations, tests, permits or quarantine arrangements may be required for you dog, cat and other pets.

Ready to plan your move to Singapore?

Bishop’s Move has managed household moves worldwide since 1854. With more than 20 UK branches, experienced export-packing teams, dedicated international Move Coordinators and trusted destination partners, we can coordinate your move from collection in the UK through to delivery in Singapore.

Tell us where you are moving from, what you plan to take and your preferred dates. We will create a practical door-to-door moving plan and a tailored, no-obligation quotation.

Or call +44 (0)208 391 8222 to speak to us direct, Monday to Friday.

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