Moving to Singapore From the UK in 2025

Singapore is a vibrant, modern city-state that blends urban convenience with lush greenery, cultural diversity, and a high standard of living. Whether you’re relocating for work, education, or a fresh start, Singapore offers world-class infrastructure, a booming economy, and an incredible food scene. 

The city is working towards becoming “a city in a garden”, with skyscrapers covered in plant life, green spaces and a focus on sustainability. Singapore also offers easy access to Asia, Australia, and beyond, making weekend trips to Bali, Thailand, Vietnam, or Malaysia from Changi Airport a reality. Although the cost of living can be high, the affordable transport systems and access to white-sandy beaches will give you an attractive expat lifestyle. 

Before packing your bags, you’ll need to learn what life is like in the Lion City. 1st Move International can get you moved safely and quickly to Singapore with our guaranteed weekly shipping and secure packing services. If you plan on moving to Singapore from the UK, this is the guide for you.

Is it Worth Relocating to Singapore?

Singapore offers an excellent quality of life thanks to its cleanliness and world-class public transport. However, laws can be strict and it has one of the highest costs of living in the world. Weighing up the pros and cons of moving to Singapore will help you make a decision.

Pros of Moving to Singapore

Singapore is a great place to live, offering excellent opportunities in a safe and clean city. 

High Quality of Life

Singapore consistently ranks as one of the best places to live due to its clean environment, efficient infrastructure, and high safety standards. The city is well-planned, with green spaces, excellent healthcare, and modern amenities.

World-class Public Transport 

Car ownership is rare in Singapore so there is a great effort to ensure the public transport system is world-class. It covers almost all of the island, and is quick, affordable, and clean, making it the go-to option for most residents.

Clean City 

Thanks to Singapore’s strict laws on littering and eating on public transport, the city is extremely clean. Aiming to become a “city in a garden”, parks, rooftop gardens, and green initiatives help improve air quality.

Cons of Moving to Singapore

There are some big differences you’ll experience when moving to Singapore from the UK that you should be aware of.

High Cost of Living 

Singapore has one of the highest costs of living in the world, especially when it comes to owning a car, housing, and education. Owning a car is almost unheard of due to extremely high costs, only around 15% of the population own one.

Year-round Humidity 

While this may be music to some expats years, Singapore’s tropical climate means it’s hot and humid all year round. Temperatures stay between 25 and 32°C all year, making it very hot and humid. The constant humidity can be uncomfortable, and there’s frequent rainfall. If you dislike warm weather, it may take time to adjust.

Strict Laws

Singapore holds much stricter laws than the UK, and residents can be fined for eating on public transport, jaywalking or littering. The death penalty is even an option if caught with any illegal drug.

UK to Singapore Visas

To stay longer than 90 days in Singapore you will need to apply for the correct visa. Let’s explore the available options.

Short-Term Stay

UK citizens can enter Singapore and stay for up to 90 days without having to apply for a visa. This applies if the purpose of the stay is for business or tourism reasons. You’ll need a UK passport that has 6 months left on it, a return ticket to prove onward travel, proof of sufficient funds for your stay, and you must submit an SG Arrival Card within 3 days before arrival in Singapore. 

Work Visas 

There are a range of Singapore work visas and the correct one will depend on the skill level of occupation. You will need to apply for one of the following if you are moving to Singapore for work. 

Employment Pass

The Employment Pass is for skilled professionals, managers, and executives planning to work in Singapore. Your Singapore employer has to apply for the visa and sponsor you. It’s typically valid for 1-2 years and can be renewed based on your work contract. You’ll have to earn at least SGD 5,000 per month, which will increase for older or more experienced workers.

S-Pass 

If you’re a technician or a mid-level skilled worker in healthcare, manufacturing, construction, and services, you can apply for an S-Pass visa to work in Singapore. You’ll have to prove you earn SGD 3,150 per month, which again raises with age. A Singapore-based employer will apply on your behalf via Singapore’s Ministry of Manpower. It’s important to note that employers only hire a certain amount of people on this visa, so it’s quite competitive. 

Entrepass or Entrepreneur Pass Scheme

The Entrepass or Entrepreneur Pass Scheme is aimed at UK entrepreneurs wishing to set up a business in Singapore. The business must be a private limited company registered with ACRA and in either the technology, sustainability, or innovation sectors. 

You must have started the business less than 6 months ago to apply and if not registered, you must do so within 30 days of approval. 

To qualify, your business will need to meet one of the following requirements: 

• Receive funding from a government-recognised venture capitalist 
• Part of a recognised accelerator program
• Holds intellectual property rights related to the business.
• Has a strong research and development component.
• Has significant success already 

Singapore Family Visas  

There are two types of family visas you can apply for to move to Singapore. 

Dependant Pass 

If your spouse or parent is an Employment Pass or S Pass holder, you can apply for a Dependant Pass to live in Singapore. You won’t be able to work until you apply for the correct work pass, but you can live with your family. The person holding the Employment or S Pass must earn at least SGD 6,000 per month. 

Long-Term Visit Pass 

The Long-Term Visit Pass is for common-law spouses, stepchildren, and parents of Employment Pass, S-Pass, and Entre Pass holders. 

For spouses or children of the pass holders, the main holder must earn around SGD 6,000 per month. This rises to SGD 12,000 per month for those wishing to bring their parents to Singapore. These are typical requirements and they may be flexible depending on family situations. 

Permanent Residency

While it’s straightforward enough to get an Employment Pass as an expat, obtaining permanent residency or citizenship is more difficult. The government prioritises skilled professionals but maintains strict immigration policies. There are however multiple routes to applying for permanent residency in Singapore. 

After holding an Employment Pass or S-Pass for a few years, you can apply for permanent residency. If you are married to a Singapore citizen this typically grants you permanent residency. For those who invest heavily in Singapore, you can apply via the Global Investor Program. You must have a personal net worth of SGD 2.5 million and invest this either in a business, fund, or family office in Singapore. 

Singapore Laws 

If you’re planning to visit or live in Singapore, it’s important to be aware of some strict regulations and fines that maintain public order and cleanliness. Singapore is renowned for its pristine environment, a standard set during the leadership of its founding father, Lee Kuan Yew, in the 1980s. 

To achieve and maintain this, strict regulations were implemented and continue today. Singapore enforces strong penalties against littering and if caught discarding small items such as cigarette ends or candy wrappers you could face substantial fines, starting from SGD 300.

Consuming food or beverages is prohibited on public transport systems like the MRT. Jaywalking and spitting in public places are also offences that can attract penalties. Feeding pigeons is fined to discourage the practice, and the importation of chewing gum is completely banned to keep public spaces clean. Familiarity with these rules can help you avoid unnecessary fines and contribute to the orderly atmosphere Singapore is known for.

Getting a Job in Singapore 

Singapore’s job market is strong, with a low unemployment rate and competitive salaries attracting talent from all areas. It’s a major hub for finance and business, with healthcare and engineering sectors also prominent. Competition for roles is on the up due to strict work visa rules and more of a push on hiring locals. A study reported that 80% of businesses in Singapore found hiring competitive in recent years.

Sectors and Roles in Demand 

There are certain sectors and jobs that are in demand in Singapore at present, these include:

• Technology and IT – Software Engineers, Data Scientists, Cybersecurity Experts, and AI Specialists
• Finance and Banking – Investment Analysts, Risk Managers, Compliance Officers, and Fintech Experts
• Healthcare – Doctors, Nurses, Medical Technologists, and Pharmacists
• Engineering – Civil Engineers, Mechanical Engineers, and Robotics Specialists
• Sales and Marketing – Digital Marketers, Business Development Managers, and E-commerce Experts
• Logistics and Supply Chain – Supply Chain Managers, Procurement Specialists, and Freight Coordinators

Average Salaries in Singapore

The average salary across all roles in Singapore is around SGD 78,660 per year. Salaries will vary by sector and experience, so researching what you could earn in your current industry will be helpful. We’ve compiled a list of average salaries for some popular roles in Singapore:

• Software Engineer – SGD 81,000
• Investment Analyst – SGD 90,000
• Doctor – SGD 120,000
• Civil Engineer – SGD 70,000
• Digital Marketer – SGD 44,172
• Supply Chain Manager – SGD 95,000

Taxes and Banking in Singapore 

Organising your finances for your Singapore move is a vital step in the process. You’ll need to understand the taxes you’ll have to pay and what bank account options are available to you.

Tax Rates  

There is no capital gains tax or inheritance tax in Singapore and personal and corporate tax rates are competitive. If you’ve been living in Singapore for more than 183 days per year, you are eligible to pay income tax. You’ll be subject to a progressive income tax rate which starts at 0% and can go up to 22%. Corporate Tax is charged at a 17% flat rate for businesses, with some exemptions for start-up companies. Stamp Duty is between 1% and 4% of the property price and Goods and Services Tax is charged at 9%.

Banking 

Although not a requirement, having a bank account in Singapore helps you to pay your taxes and receive income more easily. If you are moving to Singapore on an Employment Pass, S Pass, Dependant Pass, or Student Pass, you can open a regular account easily. If you are a non-resident, your options are limited. Some banks may require you to show a strong connection to Singapore, such as property ownership, business ties, or frequent travel. If you don’t have a Singapore work or residency permit, banks may ask for:

• Proof of address, typically in Singapore
• A reference letter from your UK bank or employer
• A higher initial deposit, typically between SGD 5,000–20,000 
• An in-person visit to verify identity

Non-residents can open personal and business accounts, and the opening and monthly deposits may differ. HSBC has an initial opening deposit minimum of SGD 10,000, whereas OCBC bank lets non-residents open a bank account with a minimum of SGD 1,000.

Currency Exchange

If you’re planning a move to Singapore, an important financial consideration is the exchange of your existing currency into Singapore dollars. Typically, large banking institutions might not offer the most economical options for this task due to their higher transfer fees and less favourable exchange rates. 

You should explore various money transfer services that specialise in currency exchange. These services often provide more competitive rates and lower fees, which can result in significant savings. Conduct thorough research and review expert assessments to select the most suitable and reliable money transfer provider for your needs.

Finding Housing in Singapore 

In Singapore, many newcomers opt for temporary housing solutions during their initial weeks or months. This allows them to explore various neighbourhoods first-hand and make informed decisions about long-term living arrangements. Temporary accommodations are recommended not only for their flexibility but also because they help ex-pats avoid committing to potentially expensive leases without local knowledge.

Restrictions for Foreigners  

80% of Singaporeans live in HDB flats, which are a type of public housing subsidised by the government. British expats and foreigners are not allowed to buy these flats new, but if you hold permanent residency status in Singapore you can buy resale HBD flats. 

Landed properties require government approval for foreigners to be able to buy them. There are no restrictions on buying condos and apartments, which are the most popular property types for expats.

Average Property Prices 

The central area of Toa Payoh seems to have the most affordable HBD resale flats, with the average cost of a 3-bedroom being $380,000. The North East town of Punggol has one of the highest resale prices, with a 3-bed flat averaging $526,900. Here are some average property prices for a range of popular options:

• HDB Resale – A 4-bedroom flat averages at SGD 636,259
• Condos – Condo units in Singapore sell for an average of SGD 1,989,082
• Landed Homes – Landed homes sell for SGD 5,336,871 on average

Cost of Living in Singapore

Singapore has a high standard of living, and with this comes a high cost of living. Housing is one of the biggest expenses for those living in Singapore, with rent prices 80% higher than in Bristol and 4.6% more than in London. The average rent for private housing for a 1-bedroom flat alone is SGD 3,943 per month (£2,326). Fortunately for Singapore citizens and permanent residents, the government subsidises housing under public housing, also known as HDB flats. This gives residents the opportunity to access affordable housing, playing a key role in urban planning.

A family of four living in Singapore are recommended to budget SGD 5,534.7 (£3,220) per month, while a person living alone should have around SGD 1,532.5 (£891), not including rent or housing costs. Groceries in Singapore tend to be high as there is a lack of agricultural land leading to lots of imported food. Here are the prices of everyday items in Singapore. 

• 1 Litre of Milk – SGD 3.72
• Loaf of Fresh White Bread – SGD 2.99 
• 1kg of Rice – SGD 3.72
• 12 Eggs – SGD 4.35
• 1kg of Local Cheese – SGD 22.94 
• 1kg of Chicken Fillets – SGD 14.14
• 1kg of Beef – SGD 28.17 
• Bottle of Wine – SGD 33.50

Public transport is well established and affordable, which many residents benefit from as owning a car can be very pricey due to high taxes, insurance, and heavy customs duties, although the price of petrol is comparable to the UK. Alcohol can also be expensive as it is heavily taxed, so nights out on the town are also costly, although if you are only eating rather than drinking the cost is lower in Singapore than in the UK.

Tips for Budget-friendly Living:

To make living in Singapore more budget-friendly, it’s essential to prioritise your spending and embrace local living. 

• Opting out of luxury dining and opulent hotel stays in favour of more modest accommodations and eateries can significantly reduce expenses. 
• Transport costs can also be minimised by using Singapore’s highly efficient public transit system, including buses, the Mass Rapid Transit (MRT), and taxis, all of which offer a dependable and less expensive alternative to owning a car.
• Embracing the local markets and food centres not only gives a taste of authentic Singaporean culture but also provides economical meal options without compromising on quality. 

These steps can help anyone live comfortably in Singapore while managing their budget effectively.

Singapore’s Healthcare System 

Healthcare in Singapore is highly regarded for its effectiveness and efficiency, ranking highly worldwide. Following a hybrid healthcare model, Singapore’s healthcare system combines public and private healthcare services while maintaining an affordable and accessible system for residents.

The system differs notably from examples like the NHS in the UK, as it requires residents to contribute financially to their healthcare savings and insurance schemes, enabling them to access services at subsidised rates. This strategy helps manage public healthcare expenditures and ensures the sustainability of the healthcare system.

Public vs. Private Healthcare

Singapore’s healthcare system is split into two main sectors:

Public Healthcare – The public healthcare system is managed by the Ministry of Health and includes hospitals run by the government and speciality centres. This service is more affordable as the government heavily subsidises services via the national health insurance scheme MediShield Life. Residents can schedule routine appointments as well as major procedures for a subsidised price.

Private Healthcare  – Private healthcare is typically used by ex-pats and for certain surgeries that are urgent. Like most private healthcare, there comes a high price but for shorter waiting times and more personalised care.  

Health Insurance 

The foundation of Singapore’s healthcare system is structured around three main components, often referred to as the “three M’s”: MediSave, MediShield Life, and MediFund. 

MediSave –  MediSave is a compulsory health savings scheme that allows individuals to put aside part of their income to cover personal or approved family members’ medical expenses.

MediShield Life – MediShield Life is a basic health insurance plan designed to pay for large hospital bills and selected costly outpatient treatments, and it covers all Singaporeans and permanent residents. 

MediFund – MediFund serves as a safety net for Singaporean citizens who are unable to afford their medical expenses despite the coverage provided by MediSave and MediShield Life.

Healthcare Costs in Singapore

Singapore’s healthcare costs vary depending on the type of service and residency status. Services are heavily subsidised for citizens and permanent residents, but expats and foreigners have to pay in full or obtain health insurance. 

Service Type	Public	Private
GP Consultation	SGD 15 – 30	SGD 50 – 100
Specialist Visit	SGD 40 – 100	SGD 150 – 300
Hospital Stay (per night)	SGD 250 – 500	SGD 800 – 3,000
Surgery (Minor)	SGD 1,000 – 5,000	SGD 5,000 – 15,000
Surgery (Major)	SGD 10,000 – 30,000	SGD 30,000+

Singapore Education

Singapore is given high praise for the family lifestyle it delivers. Not only is it listed in seventh place in a global survey of expats when it comes to the availability of childcare and education but for education in particular it scores the highest worldwide. It ranks well in subjects like maths, science, and literacy, and primary education is compulsory from ages 6-12 for all Singapore citizens. 

School education is free for Singaporeans, meaning foreigners and expats have to pay for all levels of education. Public school fees cost between SGD 205 and SGD 460 per month for permanent residents and rise to between SGD 800 and 2,000 for foreigners. Expats and foreigners must apply for school places separately, as priority is given to locals, making public school places competitive for expats. 

The Singapore education system tends to mirror the British schooling structure quite closely, including GCSEs and A-Levels. From primary school onwards, all teaching is done in English.

University

If your children want to progress to university, there are both state-run and private options. Fees tend to be higher for foreign students, with private universities much more costly than the 6 national state-run institutions. According to the National University of Singapore, annual tuition fees for foreigners are between SGD 29,200 and SGD 38,950 a year. 

There are also polytechnics, which offer three-year courses on everything from engineering to nursing. Students can qualify to go on to university or they can gain a solid qualification if they prefer to enter the workforce.

Transport Options in Singapore

Singapore is known for having one of the best transport systems in the world, offering affordable and reliable public transport options. 

MRT Train

The MRT is the most popular and affordable way to travel around Singapore, with trains running every 2-5 minutes. Tickets are cheap and it costs around SGD 1 to SGD 2.50 per ride. There are 6 main lines and over 150 stations covered on the MRT line, meaning you can reach almost all of the island via the MRT. similar to London’s underground, there are peak travel times which are 7-9 AM and 6-8 PM. You can pay via contactless by tapping in and out after journeys, or you can buy a prepaid travel card called an EZ-Link Card. the MRT is known to be safe and clean, and you could face a SGD 500 fine for eating or drinking on the train.

Busses

You can also get around Singapore by bus, although this makes the journey longer than using the MRT due to traffic. Average fares are slightly cheaper at around SGD 0.90 to SGD 2.00 per ride. Busses can also reach some areas not covered by the MRT. you can also pay via an EZ-Link Card or by tapping your contactless card.

Taxis and Ride Sharing

Many people use taxis and ride-sharing apps if they want to reach somewhere not covered by public transport. Popular taxi companies in Singapore include ComfortDelGro, TransCab, and Premier Taxis and ride-sharing apps include Grab, Gojek, TADA, and Ryde. Ride-sharing companies are often cheaper than taxis and an average fare costs between SGD 8 and SGD 30. Taxis are charged by metered fares with a 25% peak hour surcharge and a 50% midnight surcharge.

Driving in Singapore 

Driving isn’t as common as in other countries thanks to its excellent public transport system. Only 15% of people living in Singapore own cars due to cars being extremely expensive, high taxes, and strict regulations. Car ownership is deemed a luxury in Singapore, and it’s only beneficial if you live in less accessible areas or need it for a dependable family member. 

The average price for a basic car in Singapore is SGD 100,000 (£58,190). You must obtain a COE (Certificate of Entitlement) to own a car, which is valid for 10 years and only a certain amount is given out each month. You have to bid to be in with a chance of obtaining one and current COE costs for a small car are between SGD 90,000 and 100,000. On top of these expensive initial costs to own a car, you’ll also have to pay road tax, insurance, fuel, ERP (Electric Road Pricing), and parking.

Singapore’s Climate

You can expect year-round warmth, high humidity and frequent rainfall in Singapore. The temperature stays between 25°C and 34°C all year, and there are two monsoon seasons, one between December and March and the other between June and September. 

The hottest temperatures fall between March and July, with highs of around 34°C. Rainfall is low during these months and at its highest level between October and December. Rain and thunderstorms can happen anytime, but it’s usually heavy and lasts between 30 minutes and 1 hour. Many residents carry umbrellas with them as it can be useful to shield them from the sun and rain. 

The weather shouldn’t put you off visiting and living in Singapore, but here are some ideal times to visit and avoid depending on the weather:

• November to January –  Cooler but heavy rainfall. A good time for sightseeing.
• February to April – Less rain and best weather. Great for outdoor activities.
• June to September – Lots of haze and high heat. Best to avoid heavy lifting during a move.

Things To Do in Singapore

You’ll never run out of activities or experiences to try in Singapore. From visiting iconic gardens to sampling local street food, Singapore has something for everyone. 

Iconic Landmarks

Singapore offers some of the most iconic landmarks in the world. The Marina Bay Sands SkyPark gives you stunning skyline views across the city. Then there is the classic Gardens by the Bay, a futuristic nature park that features the Supertree Grove, Flower Dome and Cloud Forest. You can find Universal Studios, sandy beaches, and adventure parks on Sentosa Island, perfect for all the family. 

Cuisine and Nightlife

Singapore is known for its amazing street food scene found at the many hawker centres in the city. These are open-air food courts offering a mix of local, Chinese, Malay, Indian, and international dishes at affordable prices. Maxwell Food Center and Lau Pa Sat offer local dishes like Hainanese chicken rice, laksa, and chilli crab. You can enjoy a vibrant nightlife scene at Clarke Quay, offering a blend of clubs, music, and riverside bars. 

Nature

Known as the Garden City, Singapore blends greenery and eco-friendly architecture into the city. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Singapore Botanic Gardens boasts rainforests and the National Orchid Garden. Enjoy a scenic hike at the Southern Ridges trail or try some rollerblading or cycling at East Coast Park. The stunning MacRitchie Reservoir is the oldest reservoir in Singapore where you can enjoy the Treetop Walk. It’s a paradise for nature lovers, hikers, and adventure seekers.

Family Activities 

There are plenty of family-friendly activities in Singapore, such as the Singapore Zoo and Night Safari, one of the best wildlife parks in the world. See giant pandas and river-themed exhibits at the River Wonders. Sentosa Island’s S.E.A. Aquarium is one of the largest aquariums globally, featuring a massive collection of marine life. For those adventure seekers, the Adventure Cove Waterpark has thrilling water slides and snorkelling experiences. 

Moving to Singapore

If you’ve made the decision to move to Singapore, your next step is to look into international removals to Singapore to get your personal belongings, furniture and other household goods safely shipped over from the UK. Here at 1st Move International, we offer unbeatable packing and removals services to Singapore with guaranteed weekly shipping. Simply get a free quote today and we’ll send you a full estimate for your move. If you have any questions about the process, don’t hesitate to contact us today or give us a call on 0800 389 0784 or +44 117 982 8123.