Moving to Singapore from Hong Kong: Your Complete Expat Guide
Moving to Singapore from Hong Kong offers expats a seamless transition to a stable, efficient city-state with world-class opportunities. This Moving to Singapore from Hong Kong Complete Experience: Expat Guide provides actionable steps for visas, housing, and settling in, tailored for Hong Kong professionals seeking career growth and family security. At Homejourney, we prioritize user safety and trust, verifying property data to help you relocate confidently.
Singapore shares Hong Kong's dynamic finance hub status but excels in safety, green spaces, and work-life balance. Many Hong Kong expats move for lower taxes, political stability, and access to international schools. This cluster article supports our pillar guide on international relocations, offering Hong Kong-specific insights.
Why Hong Kong Expats Choose Singapore
Hong Kong residents often relocate to Singapore for its robust economy and family-friendly environment. Singapore's GDP per capita rivals Hong Kong's at around SGD 100,000 annually, with lower crime rates and cleaner air.[1] Finance professionals find similar high-paying roles, but with better public transport and healthcare.
Key similarities include multilingualism (English, Mandarin) and Asian business culture. Differences: Singapore bans chewing gum for cleanliness, enforces strict laws, and offers more affordable housing relative to income. Insider tip: Hong Kong expats love Singapore's hawker centers – try Maxwell Food Centre (5-min walk from Maxwell MRT Exit A) for chicken rice at SGD 5, evoking dai pai dongs but cleaner.[1]
Relocating to Singapore: Visa and Work Permits
Secure an Employment Pass (EP) first – minimum salary SGD 5,600/month for 2025, higher for those over 40 or in finance (SGD 5,500+).[1][6] Hong Kong professionals in banking or tech qualify easily; employers sponsor via MOM portal, processing in 3 weeks. Dependents get Dependant’s Pass (DP), allowing spouses to work.[5]
- Step 1: Secure job offer from Singapore firm (finance hubs like Marina Bay match HK's Central).
- Step 2: Employer applies for EP online (need passport, qualifications, resume).
- Step 3: Bring family on DP; kids under 21 eligible.
S-Pass for mid-skilled roles starts at SGD 3,150. For entrepreneurs, EntrePass requires innovative business plans. Always consult MOM.gov.sg for updates.[1]
Cost of Living: Hong Kong vs Singapore
Singapore's cost of living is 10-20% lower than Hong Kong's for expats. Rent for a 3-bed condo: SGD 6,000-10,000/month vs HKD 50,000+ in Mid-Levels. Groceries and dining are cheaper – hawker meals SGD 4-6 vs HKD 80.[1]
| Category | Hong Kong (HKD) | Singapore (SGD) |
|---|---|---|
| 1-Bed Rent (City) | 25,000 | 4,500 |
| Meal (Hawker) | 80 | 6 |
| MRT Monthly | 600 | 150 |
Homejourney's currency tools support HKD-SGD conversions for budgeting. Link to our cost of living calculator for personalized estimates.Bank Rates
Property Options for Hong Kong Expats
Foreigners can't buy HDB flats but can purchase private condos or landed homes (with URA approval). Additional Buyer's Stamp Duty (ABSD): 60% for first purchase as of 2025 – e.g., SGD 1.2M condo incurs SGD 720K extra.[1] Renting is popular: 1-bed in Orchard SGD 4,000-6,000/month, 2-year leases standard, 2 months deposit.[2]
Popular neighborhoods for HK expats: Orchard (shopping like Causeway Bay, 5-min to ION Orchard), Holland Village (expat vibe, 10-min walk to international schools), East Coast (beaches, 15-min drive to CBD).[2] Search verified listings on Homejourney's property search Property Search for safe, transparent options. For new launches, check Projects Directory .
Practical Settling-In Guide
Banking: Open DBS/POSB account on arrival (need EP, passport; 10-min at branch). Multi-currency accounts suit HKD transfers.[4]
Healthcare: World-class public system; expat insurance recommended (SGD 2,000/year family). Register at polyclinics like Jurong (MRT 2-min walk).[3]
Education: International schools like UWCSEA (Holland Village, waitlists 1-2 years; fees SGD 40K/year).[1]
Transportation: MRT is king – EZ-Link card SGD 10, unlimited travel. Taxis via Grab app (HKD equivalent fares).[4] COE for cars: SGD 100K+.
- Day 1: Activate SingPass for govt services.
- Week 1: Get local SIM (StarHub, SGD 10).
- Month 1: Enroll kids in school, hire helper if needed (SGD 800/month).[4]
Maintaining Connections with Hong Kong
Direct flights: 3.5 hours, SGD 200-400 return (Scoot/SilkAir). Daily services from Changi to HKIA.[1] Join HK expat groups on Facebook/Meetup for dim sum meetups at Pariss 1 (Orchard, authentic HK flavors).
Homejourney supports HKD transactions seamlessly. For property maintenance post-move, book via Aircon Services . Explore our Hong Kong 5-day itinerary Homejourney: Guide to Hong Kong 5-Day Itinerary: Complete Experience for visits home.
Success Stories: HK Expats in Singapore
Hong Kong banker John Lee moved in 2024: "Switched from crowded MTR to spotless MRT, salary up 15% tax-free." Family loves Tanglin's green spaces vs HK's high-rises. Tech exec Sarah Wong: "Easier schools, safer streets – Homejourney verified our condo fast."[1] These stories highlight Singapore's appeal for HK talent.
FAQ
Can Hong Kong citizens buy property in Singapore?
Foreigners pay 60% ABSD on first buy; renting recommended initially. Use Homejourney for verified options.[1][2]
How long for EP approval from Hong Kong?
3-8 weeks; start with job offer. Check MOM.gov.sg.[1]
Best areas for HK expats?
Orchard, Holland Village – walkable, amenities-rich.[2]
Cost comparison for families?
Singapore 15% cheaper housing/education; calculate on Homejourney.[1]
Flight frequency HK-Singapore?
20+ daily, 3.5 hours.[1]
Ready to start? Search safe properties on Homejourney Property Search and link to our pillar: International Relocations Guide. Your trusted partner for Singapore moves.
