Immigrate to Singapore From the US

Cost of Moving to Singapore

Relocating to Singapore involves various expenses:

• Shipping Household Goods: $4,000–$8,000, depending on volume and distance.

• Customs Fees: Singapore generally does not charge duties on personal items.

• Airfare: Round-trip flights range from $900–$1,500 per person.

Pro Tip: Sell large furniture in the US and opt for furnished rentals in Singapore to save on shipping costs.

Visa and Residency Requirements

US citizens planning to move to Singapore need an appropriate visa. Options include:

• Employment Pass: For professionals earning a minimum of $3,600 per month.

• Dependent Pass: For family members of Employment Pass holders.

• EntrePass: For entrepreneurs planning to start a business in Singapore.

Step-by-Step Guide for Employment Pass:

1. Secure a job offer in Singapore.

2. Your employer will submit the visa application on your behalf.

3. Provide required documents such as your passport and proof of qualifications.

4. Await approval, which typically takes 7–10 business days.

Healthcare and Education

Healthcare in Singapore

Singapore’s healthcare system is world-class and accessible.

• Public Healthcare: Subsidized for residents and work pass holders; costs range from $20–$50 per doctor’s visit.

• Private Healthcare: Offers faster access and specialized care, with higher costs.

Education in Singapore

Singapore provides top-tier educational options for families:

• Public Schools: Affordable but geared toward residents; taught in English with a local curriculum.

• International Schools: Popular among expats, offering American, IB, or British curricula.

Immigrating to Singapore

Moving Checklist

To ensure a seamless move, follow this checklist:

1. Documentation: Gather your passport, visa approval, and employment contract.

2. Housing: Secure temporary accommodation while searching for long-term options.

3. Banking: Open a local bank account for easier transactions.

4. Healthcare Enrollment: Choose a healthcare provider and enroll in insurance.

5. Customs and Shipping: Prepare an inventory list for smooth customs clearance.

Food & Drink

Singapore is a food lover’s paradise with its vibrant hawker centers and diverse dining options. Must-try dishes include:

• Chicken Rice: A flavorful and affordable national dish.

• Chili Crab: A signature seafood delicacy.

• Laksa: Spicy noodle soup with coconut milk and seafood.

For Familiar Flavors: Supermarkets like Cold Storage carry American products, and international chains like Shake Shack are readily available.

Culture

Singapore’s culture reflects its blend of Chinese, Malay, Indian, and Western influences.

• Languages: English is the primary working language, while Malay, Mandarin, and Tamil are also official.

• Festivals: Celebrate major events like Chinese New Year, Deepavali, and Hari Raya.

• Social Customs: Respect for cleanliness and lawfulness is deeply ingrained in daily life.