Singapore is an increasingly popular destination for our French-speaking expatriates.
Singapore is one of Asia’s most popular destinations for expatriates. This city-state on an island at the tip of Malaysia’s peninsula is known the world over as synonymous with economic success. Its top-quality infrastructure, healthcare facilities, tourist attractions, local food… all these elements make Singapore one of the top destinations for expatriates.
Singapore : The city coveted by expatriates
Why do so many expatriates choose Singapore?
Accommodation in Singapore
There are three types of accommodation in Singapore. There are :
– Apartments: There are two types of apartment: HBDs and condominiums. If you’re on a tight budget, HBDs are a great way to find a place to live. They are located close to supermarkets, clinics, schools and shopping centers. Condominiums offer facilities such as swimming pools, gyms, etc. Monthly rents range from SGD 2,000 to SGD 20,000 (€1,200 to €1,250).
– The studio: In Singapore, a studio has the bedroom separated from the living room and kitchen. A studio in the city center will cost you around 600 SGD (350 euros) per month.
– Villas: There are two main types of villa. Traditional villas and colonial villas. However, foreigners are not allowed to buy these villas (except at Santosa Cove), as they belong to the Singaporean state.
If you are interested in becoming a homeowner in Singapore, visit the Singapore Land Authority website.
Singapore’s varied food scene
In Singapore, culinary diversity is the order of the day. There’s something for everyone. Food courts offer a wide choice of flavors: local, Indian, Malay or Western. A meal can cost between 3 and 10 SGD (2 and 6 euros).
Efficient public transport
They are particularly well-developed, allowing you to move anywhere, anytime. In addition to this ease of use, the price remains very affordable.
A high-quality school system
The school system is of a very high standard. According to Hsbc Expat Explorer, 47% of expats consider local schools to be excellent. 62% consider the education they receive in Singapore to be of better quality than in their home country. What’s more, state schools are much less expensive than international schools (SGD 3,500 vs. SGD 15,000).
A stable country in full economic growth
Singapore’s greatest asset is its stability. Whether politically or financially, the country changes little or not at all. Laws and rules are relatively clear and, above all, respected. Singapore is immune to the earthquakes, typhoons, tsunamis and other disasters that regularly strike Asia. In other words, there is very little insecurity.
Which visa for expatriates in Singapore?
“The Employment Pass is becoming increasingly difficult to obtain. It’s a work permit aimed at company executives, managers and specialized, qualified professionals. Singapore has decided to reduce its dependence on foreign labor. The Employment Pass is therefore reserved for expatriates earning at least 4,500 SGD (2,800 euros).
To obtain the Dependant Pass for your family, a minimum of 6000 SGD (3700 euros) is required. This is the best visa for foreigners coming to work in Singapore. In fact, since November 2020, employees seconded to Singapore can no longer benefit from residence permits for their family members. An exception is made for nationals of countries that have signed a free trade agreement with Singapore, such as Australia or India. What’s more, these seconded employees will no longer be allowed to stay in Singapore, even for a limited period, once their work visa has expired.
Why is it increasingly difficult for expatriates to move to Singapore?
For many years, the government has encouraged the recruitment of foreign workers due to its low birth rate. This has led to a sharp rise in the cost of living, particularly property, transport and medical costs, and has created competition with local employees.
Singapore, despite being one of the most popular destinations for expatriates, no longer seems to be as welcoming to them.
Do I need health insurance for Singapore?
Medical costs in Singapore are high. Medical care is good, but technological advances and the general rise in the cost of living in Singapore are driving up medical costs. Living in Singapore without medical insurance is strongly discouraged. Expatriates in Singapore should take out expatriate health insurance in Singapore to avoid any surprises when the bill arrives. In some cases, employers can insure their employees; in others, it’s up to the individual to find the right policy. Expatriate insurance is particularly suitable for a number of reasons:
- Worldwide coverage, including your home country
- Excellent coverage ceilings for medical costs
- GoldExpat insurance is often more affordable and better positioned than many local insurers in Singapore.
- Coverage for business trips or vacations outside Singapore, important for a geographically limited country
