Key Takeaways- Moving to Singapore from the UK can cost between £4,000 to £12,000, depending on volume and services.
- UK citizens need a valid visa, typically through employment, to live in Singapore.
- Singapore is a safe, efficient, and modern place with a strong expat community and high living standards.
How to Move to Singapore from the UK
To move to Singapore from the UK, you’ll need a valid visa, a job offer, and a solid relocation plan. Here are the essential steps:
- Research visa types and apply
- Get a job offer (in most cases)
- Choose a moving company
- Estimate your household volume
- Understand customs rules
- Find accommodation in Singapore
- Sort out healthcare and insurance
If you’re emigrating to Singapore permanently, plan for a longer stay and explore eligibility for Permanent Residency (PR) later on.
Costs of Moving to Singapore
The average cost for moving to Singapore from the UK ranges from £4,000 to £12,000, depending on volume, services, and season.
| Volume | Average cost |
| One-bedroom (single) | £4,000 – £7,000 |
| Three-bedroom house (family) | £8,000 – £12,000 |
Disclaimer: The prices above are estimates.
Want an accurate quote for moving services from the UK to Singapore? Estimating your volume will help to ask for accurate quotes from moving companies:
Estimate Your VolumeMoving to Singapore With Pets
Yes, you can bring pets to Singapore from the UK, but there are specific rules and costs. Requirements include:
- An ISO-compliant microchip
- Rabies vaccination + titre test
- Veterinary health certificate
- 10-day quarantine at Sembawang
- Import permit from AVS (cost ~£40)
Estimated pet relocation costs include:
- Crate: £100–£500
- Vet checks: £150–£400
- Quarantine: £300–£400
Pet relocation services can handle everything, including flights, permits, and paperwork.
Best International Moving Companies to Singapore
Choose those experienced in long-distance shipping and Singapore’s customs. Below are the top 5 international removal companies to Singapore from the UK
Sirelo Top Mover
8.1
101
Amersham
8 ratings as Friendly
8 ratings as "Friendly"
Sirelo Top Mover
8.1
287
Croydon
16 ratings as Professional
16 ratings as "Professional"
8.4
111
Liverpool
3 ratings as Good Price
3 ratings as "Good Price"
10.0
25
Birmingham
2 ratings as Professional
2 ratings as "Professional"
7.3
325
Dartford
6 ratings as Professional
6 ratings as "Professional"
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Can I Move to Singapore from the UK Without a Job?
Yes, but it’s more challenging. Options include:
- Tourist visa entry while job hunting (not recommended long-term)
- Long-Term Visit Pass via a working partner
- EntrePass for entrepreneurs
Visa Options to Immigrate to Singapore from the UK
UK citizens can move to Singapore by applying for a long-term visa, typically through employment. There is no direct permanent residence, but expats may apply for PR later.
Types of Singapore Visas:
- Employment Pass (EP): For professionals with a job offer (min. SGD 5,000/month)
- S Pass: For mid-level skilled employees (min SGD 3,000/month)
- EntrePass: For startup founders
- Personalised Employment Pass (PEP): For high earners
- Dependent’s Pass (DP): For the family of EP/S Pass holders
How to Apply for a Singapore Visa from the UK
Your employer usually applies on your behalf via Singapore’s Ministry of Manpower (MOM). You’ll need:
- A valid passport
- Job offer letter
- Educational qualifications
Visa Costs: SGD 70 to 225. You’ll receive an IPA (In-Principle Approval) letter before travelling.
Jobs in Singapore for UK Citizens
The best job sectors for UK expats in Singapore are in:
- Finance
- IT & Cybersecurity
- Healthcare
- Education
- Engineering
You’ll generally need a job offer to qualify for a visa. Employers in Singapore will usually sponsor your Employment or S Pass and handle most of the application.
Living in Singapore as a UK Expat
Singapore offers a safe, modern, and efficient environment. Many Brits find life in Singapore easy to adapt to, thanks to:
- English being an official language
- Great public transport
- High-quality healthcare
- Multicultural society
Cost of Living in London vs. Singapore
Living in Singapore is similar in cost to London, with cheaper daily expenses but high rent.
| Item | Singapore | London |
| 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 2025
Best Districts for Expats in Singapore
- Holland Village: Trendy and vibrant, great for expats
- Orchard Road: Central and offers luxury
- East Coast: Family-friendly neighbourhood
- Sentosa: Offers beachfront luxury
- Bukit Timah: Plenty of international schools
Is Singapore a Good Place to Live for British Expats?
Yes, Singapore is one of the safest and most efficient cities for expats.
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
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.
- Collect documents: Ensure that your passport and important documents, like (birth) certificates, are valid
- Find a job: If you’re not already employed, look into the visa options
- Apply for a visa: Start your visa application process early to avoid delays
- Find a home in Singapore and/or schools: Research districts and rent options
- Get your moving quotes: Book a removal company to Singapore
- Pack & ship your belongings: Arrange packing or save costs by self-packing
- Register with local authorities: Do this upon arrival to be legally registered
- Sort out health insurance: Public healthcare is available, but registration is required
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Moving to Singapore is an exciting step, and fully achievable with the right planning. Whether you’re relocating for work, lifestyle, or adventure, Singapore welcomes British expats with open arms.
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