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A GUIDE FOR Moving TO

Singapore

A GUIDE FOR Moving TO

Singapore

A GUIDE FOR Moving TO

Singapore

GUIDE FOR

Moving to Singapore? Here is what you need to know

Moving to Singapore? Here is what you need to know

Singapore has become one of the world’s top destinations for expats, professionals, and digital nomads thanks to its safety, cleanliness, strong economy, and exceptional quality of life. With its futuristic skyline, multicultural society, and world-class infrastructure, Singapore offers a uniquely vibrant lifestyle. Whether you're drawn to its high-paying career opportunities, tropical climate, or diverse food culture, many people fall in love with this dynamic city-state.

To ensure a smooth relocation, it’s important to understand Singapore’s culture, cost of living, work environment, languages, and practical aspects of moving.
This guide provides a full overview of Singapore, from cultural insights to relocation tips to help you start your new life.

How much does it cost to move to Singapore?

The cost of moving to Singapore varies based on your origin country, shipment size, and transport method. Below are realistic price ranges for international moves.

Average moving costs by region of origin

  • From within Southeast Asia: €1,500 – €3,500

  • From Europe: €4,000 – €8,000

  • From the UK: €4,500 – €9,000

  • From North America (USA/Canada): €5,500 – €10,500

  • From Oceania (Australia/New Zealand): €4,000 – €8,500

  • From the Middle East: €3,500 – €7,000

  • From Latin America: €6,000 – €12,000

Since Singapore is an island nation, all belongings must be shipped or flown in, which affects pricing significantly.

Factors that influence your moving cost

  • Distance and country of origin

  • Volume of belongings (m³)

  • Transport method:

    • Sea freight – most common and economical

    • Air freight – fastest but most expensive

  • Peak seasons: higher demand from June to August

  • Additional services: packing, customs paperwork, insurance, temporary storage, pet relocation, vehicle shipping (rare due to strict regulations)

Typical examples

  • Move from Malaysia to Singapore with 10 m³: €1,800 – €2,800

  • Couple relocating from the UK to Singapore with 20 m³: €5,500 – €8,500

  • Family moving from the USA to Singapore with 30 m³: €8,000 – €12,000

For exact pricing, requesting a customised moving quote based on your situation is always best.

A Glimpse into Singapore

Geography and climate

Singapore is a compact island nation located at the southern tip of Malaysia. Despite its small size, it features lush green spaces, modern architecture, and efficient urban planning.

Climate facts:

  • Tropical climate: hot and humid all year

  • Temperatures: 25–32°C

  • Frequent rain showers: especially during monsoon seasons

  • No real seasons: expect warmth year-round

The greenery, parks, and tree-lined streets give Singapore its nickname: The Garden City.

A snapshot of history

Singapore’s history is a remarkable journey from fishing village to global powerhouse.

Key highlights:

  • 14th century: early settlements and trade routes

  • 1819: Sir Stamford Raffles established the modern trading post

  • British colonial era: rapid economic development

  • Japanese occupation (1942–1945) during World War II

  • Independence in 1965: Singapore becomes a sovereign nation

  • Modern miracle: transformed into a global hub for finance, trade, aviation, and technology

Singapore today is known for stability, innovation, and economic strength.

Diving into Singaporean culture

Singapore’s culture is a blend of Chinese, Malay, Indian, and Western influences. This multicultural harmony shapes daily life, traditions, and food.

Food and drink

Singapore is a world-famous food haven. Popular favourites include:

  • Hainanese chicken rice

  • Laksa

  • Chili crab

  • Satay

  • Roti prata

  • Nasi lemak

  • Kaya toast with kopi (local coffee)

Hawker centres are central to social life.

Festivals

Singapore celebrates a diverse range of holidays and festivals:

  • Chinese New Year

  • Hari Raya Puasa

  • Deepavali

  • National Day (9 August)

  • Mid-Autumn Festival

  • Thaipusam

  • Singapore Grand Prix & major cultural festivals

Each festival highlights the harmony between the different cultures.

Lifestyle and social norms

Life in Singapore is shaped by:

  • Cleanliness: strict laws ensure tidy streets

  • Safety: consistently one of the safest countries in the world

  • Efficiency: world-class public transport and services

  • Respect for rules: essential in daily life

  • Multilingual environment: English widely spoken

  • High living standards: modern housing, quality healthcare, top-ranked education

Newcomers appreciate the clarity, order, and convenience that define everyday life.

Working in Singapore

Singapore is a global business hub with excellent career opportunities, particularly for skilled professionals.

Business culture

  • Fast-paced, efficient, and professional

  • Strong emphasis on punctuality and respect

  • Multicultural teams are the norm

  • Clear communication and hierarchy common in workplaces

  • High expectations for performance and productivity

Top industries for expats

  • Finance & banking

  • Technology & cybersecurity

  • Logistics & global trade

  • Healthcare & pharmaceuticals

  • Engineering

  • Education

  • Hospitality & tourism

Singapore also attracts digital nomads thanks to its connectivity and modern infrastructure.

Malay / Mandarin / Tamil / Singlish made simple

Singapore has four official languages: English, Malay, Mandarin Chinese, and Tamil. English is the primary working language, but learning a few local phrases helps.

Common phrases

English

Malay

Mandarin

Tamil

Hello

Halo / Selamat datang

你好 (Nǐ hǎo)

வணக்கம் (Vaṇakkam)

Goodbye

Selamat tinggal

再见 (Zàijiàn)

போய் வருகிறேன் (Pōy varugirēn)

Thank you

Terima kasih

谢谢 (Xièxiè)

நன்றி (Naṉri)

Please

Tolong

请 (Qǐng)

தயவு செய்து (Tayavu ceytu)

How are you?

Apa khabar?

你好吗?(Nǐ hǎo ma?)

எப்படி இருக்கிறீர்கள்? (Eppaṭi irukkiṟīrkaḷ?)

I don’t understand

Saya tak faham

我不懂 (Wǒ bù dǒng)

எனக்கு புரியவில்லை (Eṉakku puriyavillai)

Where is the nearest…?

Di mana … terdekat?

最近的…在哪里?

அருகிலுள்ள … எங்கே?

Can you help me?

Boleh tolong saya?

你能帮我吗?

நீங்க எனக்கு உதவ முடியுமா?

How much does this cost?

Berapa harga ini?

这个多少钱?

இது எவ்வளவு?

Do you speak English?

Boleh cakap Inggeris?

你会说英语吗?

ஆங்கிலம் பேசுவீர்களா?

Final thoughts

Singapore offers an unmatched blend of safety, multiculturalism, economic opportunity, and world-class living standards. Whether you're relocating for career growth, education, or new adventures, Singapore’s vibrant lifestyle and welcoming energy make it an exceptional place to call home.

Immerse yourself in its culture, enjoy its multicultural flavours, and discover why so many expats choose Singapore as their second home.

Welcome to Singapore !

Sponsors

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ActiveQuote Ltd

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Aims Immigration & Relocation Specialist

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April International

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April International

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Apt Wealth Partners

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AvD

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AXA PPP International

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