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Moving to Singapore from the UK

Costs, Immigration and Lifestyle

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Are you considering a move to Singapore? When relocating halfway across the world, you want to be prepared! This guide covers everything about moving to Singapore from the UK, including moving costs, visa requirements, living expenses, and the pros and cons of living in Singapore.

Costs of Moving to Singapore

The average cost for a moving company to Singapore from the UK ranges from £4,000 to £12,000. The costs vary based on volume, distance, and services.

Let’s say you’re moving from London to Singapore, here’s what you can roughly expect to pay. Moving to Singapore with a family can be costly, but you can save money by self-packing.

VolumeAverage cost
One-bedroom (single)£4,000 – £7,000
Three-bedroom house (family)£8,000 – £12,000

Disclaimer: The prices above are estimates.

The moving costs to Singapore is calculated based on volume, distance, container type, additional services such as packing and storage, and any price fluctuations due to seasonality. Most removal companies to Singapore ship your belongings from door to door and include customs clearance, but always double-check.

Want an accurate quote for moving services from the UK to Singapore? Estimating your volume will help to ask for accurate quotes to moving companies:

Estimate Your Volume

Moving to Singapore With Pets

Moving a dog or your fluffy feline to Singapore? You can fly with them yourself or use a pet relocation service.

Pet relocation services handle all logistics, including paperwork, quarantine booking, and flight arrangements.

The cost of flying a pet from the UK to Singapore varies depending on the size, breed, and airline. Not all airlines accept pets in the cabin, especially for long-haul flights. Most pets will travel as cargo in climate-controlled areas.

Next to airfare, additional costs can include:

  • Crates: IATA-approved travel crates are required and cost between £100 and £500, depending on the size
  • Vet checks: Pre-flight vaccinations, treatments, and a veterinary health certificate typically cost between £150 and £400
  • Quarantine fees: Pets travelling from the UK are subject to a 10-day quarantine upon arrival, which costs £300 to £400 for dogs and cats

Singapore Pet Import Requirements

Follow these procedures to meet the import regulations when moving to Singapore with pets.

  1. Pets must be microchipped with an ISO-compliant microchip
  2. Pets must be vaccinated for rabies at least 30 days and no more than 12 months before entering. A rabies titre test is required and should be done at least 30 days and no later than 6 months before moving to Singapore
  3. Pets must have a veterinary health certificate, issued by a UK-registered vet, within 7 days of travel
  4. Upon arrival, pets are inspected by the Singapore customs and veterinary authorities
  5. Apply for an import permit from the Singapore Animal & Veterinary Service (AVS) at least 30 days before arrival. The permit costs about £40
  6. Pets moving from the UK to Singapore undergo a mandatory 10-day quarantine at the Sembawang Animal Quarantine Station. Book in advance, as it fills up quickly

Best International Moving Companies to Singapore

Internal removal companies to Singapore make your move a breeze! The moving company arranges everything from packing to shipping, customs clearance, and delivery.

When searching for international moving companies to Singapore, choose ones experienced in long-distance shipping and Singapore’s customs.

Top 5 international removal companies to Singapore from the UK

1. Deliver1

2. PSS International Removals

3. John Mason International Movers

4. Last Minute Parcel

5. Doree Bonner International 

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Singapore Visa Requirements for UK Citizens

Can a UK citizen move to Singapore? They can! Let’s look at the different visa options.

How to Move to Singapore Permanently

Singapore doesn’t offer permanent residence directly to new arrivals, so most expats start with a long-term visa, typically through employment or investment. Here are the main visa routes:

Employment Pass (EP)

For professionals, managers, and executives with a job offer in Singapore. This visa is valid for up to two years and renewable. You’ll need:

  • Minimum monthly salary of SGD 5,000 (higher for candidates in their 40s and above)
  • Recognized qualifications (degree, professional qualifications)
  • Relevant work experience

S Pass

For mid-level skilled employees with a job offer in specific industries. This visa is valid for up to two years and renewable. You’ll need:

  • Minimum monthly salary of SGD 3,000 (higher for older, more experienced candidates)
  • Recognized qualifications (diploma, degree, or technical certificates)

EntrePass

For entrepreneurs wanting to start a business in Singapore. This visa is valid for one year and renewable. Requirements:

  • Company must be registered as a private limited company in Singapore
  • Company must be venture-backed or possess innovative technologies

Personalised Employment Pass (PEP)

For high-earning existing EP holders or overseas foreign professionals. Valid for three years and non-renewable. Requirements:

  • For overseas professionals: last drawn fixed monthly salary of minimum SGD 18,000
  • For existing EP holders: fixed monthly salary of minimum SGD 12,000

Dependent’s Pass (DP)

For immediate family members (spouse or children) of a valid holder of the Employment Pass, S Pass, or EntrePass. Requirements:

  • Main visa holder must earn a monthly minimum salary of SGD 6,000
  • Typically for legal spouses and unmarried children under 21 (including legally adopted children)

Moving to Singapore for Work

Many British citizens will find expatriate jobs in Singapore and make the big move overseas! If you’re corporate moving to Singapore from the UK, you’ll need an Employment Pass or S Pass and sponsorship from your new employer.

How to Apply for a Singapore Visa in the UK

Once you’ve secured a job, the UK to Singapore visa is a straightforward process that takes around three to eight weeks to finalise.

Your company sponsors your Employment Pass and applies on your behalf through Singapore’s Ministry of Manpower (MOM) portal. You’ll provide a valid passport, job offer letter, and educational certificates and qualifications.

The fees range from SGD 70 to SGD 225. Once approved, you’ll get an In-Principle Approval (IPA) letter to enter Singapore. You’ll then need to get your pass issued, provide a passport photo and fingerprints, and collect your EP card.

Can I Move to Singapore Without a Job?

You can move to Singapore without a job, but it’s more complex. You could enter on a tourist visa while job hunting or become a long-term visit pass holder if you’re joining a working partner.

Living in Singapore

As a global financial hub, Singapore offers strong career opportunities, particularly in industries like tech and finance. Brits who move to Singapore enjoy its safe, multicultural environment where English is widely spoken! Let’s look at the average cost of living in Singapore vs the UK.

Cost of Living in London vs Singapore

Singapore is known for its high living costs compared to other Asian countries. You would roughly need the same monthly budget (around £6,800 including rent) in Singapore as in London. Here’s an overview of the living expenses in Singapore.

ItemSingaporeLondon
Meal (Inexpensive Restaurant)£8.79£20.00
Pint of Beer£5.80£6.50
Regular Cappuccino£3.73£3.72
Single Transport Ticket£1.17£2.75
Monthly Rent (1-bed, City Centre)£2,127.11£2,145.00
Monthly Rent (1-bed, Outside Centre)£1,536.40£1,595.46

Source: Cost Of Living Comparison Between Singapore and United Kingdom, Numbeo, 2024

Best Districts to Live in Singapore

Singapore has many popular expat neighbourhoods that are convenient and accessible. Below are the best districts in Singapore for foreigners.

  • Holland Village: With its laid-back, Bohemian vibe, this area is popular with young professionals and families. It offers cafés, restaurants, and trendy boutiques.
  • Orchard Road: This well-connected shopping district is favoured by expats who want to be at the centre of everything. It offers luxury apartments and high-end retail.
  • East Coast: This relaxed residential area is popular with families due to its beachfront location, spacious homes, and greenery. It has great schools and recreational activities.
  • Sentosa: This area has luxurious waterfront homes, beaches, and easy access to golf courses and upscale dining.
  • Bukit Timah: This quiet, upscale neighbourhood with large homes is loved by families for its proximity to international schools and nature reserves.

Is Singapore a Good Place to Live?

Singapore is considered a great place to live for many expats due to its high standard of living, economic stability, and efficient public services. Let’s look at the pros and cons of moving to Singapore.

Reasons to Move

 World-class services
 Global financial hub
 Low crime rate
 Melting pot of cultures (easy for expats to adapt)
 Efficient transport system

Reasons Not to Move

 Competitive salaries and costly expenses
 Tropical climate
 Strict rules on public cleanliness
 Fast-paced work culture

Living in Singapore as an Expat

You’ll fit right in as a Brit moving to Singapore. British expats often find Singapore a welcoming and easy place to live. English is widely spoken, making daily life smooth! You’ll find a large community of expats who enjoy the city’s modern conveniences and vibrant culture.

Interesting Things About Singapore

  • English is one of the four official languages and the primary language of business, education, and government
  • Singapore’s public and private healthcare system consistently ranks among the best globally
  • Despite being a metropolis, Singapore has a lot of nature reserves, walking trails, and green parks
  • Singapore’s income tax rates are relatively low with 22%
  • Singapore is known for being one of the cleanest and safest cities in the world

Checklist: How to Move to Singapore From the UK

In the checklist below, you’ll find the key things to know before moving to Singapore.

Moving to Singapore Checklist

  1. Collect documents: Ensure that your passport and important documents, like (birth) certificates, are valid
  2. Find a job: If you’re not already employed, look into the visa options
  3. Apply for a visa: Start your visa application process early to avoid delays
  4. Find a home in Singapore: Research districts and rent options
  5. Hire a moving company: Book a removal company to Singapore
  6. Pack your belongings: Arrange packing or save costs by self-packing
  7. Register with local authorities: Do this upon arrival to be legally registered
  8. Sort out health insurance: Public healthcare is available but registration is required
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Tips for Moving to Singapore

With so many British citizens having moved to Singapore before you, we’ve collected the eight things they wish they knew before moving to Singapore.

  1. Budget for high living costs: Singapore consistently ranks as one of the world’s most expensive cities
  2. Prepare for a tropical climate: Singapore’s heat and humidity are constant
  3. Use public transport: The MRT and bus networks are reliable and affordable
  4. Compare health insurance: Many expats opt for private health insurance to cover potentially high medical costs
  5. Learn the cultural customs: Chinese, Malay, and Indian are the primary cultures and their customs include things like removing shoes before entering a home
  6. Apply for schools early: The school system is competitive with long waiting lists, especially for international schools
  7. Research local laws: From jaywalking fines to strict cleanliness standards, research the laws so you won’t get surprised
  8. Compare different homes: Accommodation can be expensive, especially in popular expat districts in Singapore
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Frequently asked questions

Can I move to Singapore as a British Citizen?

How Hard Is It to Move to Singapore?

Why Do People Move to Singapore?

Is It Worth Moving to Singapore?

What Is the UK to Singapore Time?