Welcome to Singapore! Moving to a new country can be exciting but also overwhelming, so I’m here to help you get settled smoothly. Here are the essential things you should take care of as you set up your new life in Singapore.
Most popular neighbourhood in Singapore
- Woodlands
- Tanglin
- Serangoon
- Ang Mo Kio
Accommodation in Singapore for expats
Find a Place to Stay: Start by finding a suitable place to live. You can rent an HDB flat, a private apartment, or a condo. Websites like PropertyGuru or 99.co can help you find listings. Decide whether you want to live close to work, in the city center, or in a quieter area.
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Lease Agreement: Ensure that you understand the terms of your lease, including the deposit, rental period, and any other obligations like maintenance fees.
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How to open a Banking account in Singapore
Open a Bank Account: To manage your finances, you’ll need a local bank account. Popular banks include DBS, UOB, and OCBC. You’ll typically need your passport, Employment Pass (EP), and proof of address to open an account.
- DBS Bank Ltd (WhatsApp number)
- OCBC Bank (WhatsApp number)
- United Overseas Bank Limited (WhatsApp number)
- CIMB Bank WhatsApp Number https://chatwith.io/instagram/cimb-singapore-personal-banking-solutions
ATM and Credit Cards: Once you have an account, apply for a debit or credit card. Many places in Singapore accept contactless payments, so this will be handy.
Get your own Mobile and Internet access
Get a Local SIM Card: Choose from telcos like Singtel, StarHub, or M1 for your mobile plan. Compare plans based on your data, call, and text needs. You can either go for a prepaid or postpaid plan.
Set Up Internet: If you’re renting a place, set up home broadband. Providers like Singtel, StarHub, and MyRepublic offer various plans. Consider your internet speed requirements before choosing.
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Get your Transportation card
Get an EZ-Link Card: Singapore’s public transport is efficient. An EZ-Link or SimplyGo card will give you access to buses and MRT (subway) services. You can top it up at any MRT station or convenience store.
Driving in Singapore: If you plan to drive, you’ll need to convert your foreign driver’s license to a Singaporean one. This involves passing the Basic Theory Test (BTT). You can then apply for a conversion at the Traffic Police Department.
Healthcare documents
Register with a GP: It’s a good idea to register with a local General Practitioner (GP) for routine health checks. Singapore has public polyclinics and private clinics, so choose one near your home.
Health Insurance: If your employer doesn’t provide sufficient health coverage, consider getting additional private health insurance. Companies like NTUC Income or AIA offer comprehensive plans.
Legal and Administrative documents and whatsapp numbers
Employment Pass (EP): Ensure that your Employment Pass is processed and ready. Your employer usually handles this, but make sure you have the necessary documentation.
Registering with the Embassy: If required, register with your home country’s embassy in Singapore. This is important for staying updated on any travel advisories or other critical information.
Daily Living Essentials
Grocery Shopping: Supermarkets like FairPrice, Cold Storage, and Sheng Siong are common. For fresh produce, visit wet markets, which offer a variety of local foods at affordable prices.
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Utilities: If you’re renting a home, set up utilities like water, electricity, and gas through SP Services.
Household Items: Shops like IKEA, Giant, or Courts are great for buying furniture, electronics, and household essentials.
Community and Social Life
Join Expat Groups: Singapore has a large expat community. Joining groups on Facebook or attending meetups can help you make new friends and get advice on living in Singapore.
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Explore the City: Singapore is rich in culture, food, and attractions. Visit places like Gardens by the Bay, Sentosa, and the various hawker centers to experience local life.
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Emergency WhatsApp Numbers
Important Contacts: Save emergency numbers like 999 for the police, 995 for an ambulance, and your embassy’s contact details. It’s also helpful to know the nearest hospital or clinic in case of emergencies.
Culture and Etiquette
Understanding Local Customs: Singapore is a multicultural society, so be respectful of different cultures and religions. English is widely spoken, but learning a few phrases in Malay, Mandarin, or Tamil can be helpful.
Laws and Regulations: Singapore is known for its strict laws. Avoid littering, jaywalking, and smoking in non-designated areas to stay on the right side of the law.
By taking care of these essentials, you’ll be well on your way to a smooth and enjoyable life in Singapore. If you need more help with anything specific, feel free to reach out!