Transitioning from Hurtigruten Coastal Voyage to Singapore Life
Relocating from the stunning Norwegian coast—famous for its Hurtigruten coastal voyage between Bergen and Kirkenes—to Singapore offers a thrilling shift from fjords and midnight sun to tropical urban vibrancy.
Homejourney provides this expat guide to ensure your move prioritizes safety, transparency, and verified information, helping you build confidence in your decision.
Whether you're drawn by Singapore's career hubs in finance, tech, or maritime sectors—relevant for Norway cruise enthusiasts—or its world-class safety, this guide delivers actionable steps.
As part of our broader pillar on International Expat Relocation to Singapore, it focuses on tailored advice for Hurtigruten coastal voyage travelers.
Why Expats from Norwegian Coast Choose Singapore
The Hurtigruten coastal voyage showcases Norway's rugged beauty, with ports like Bergen and Kirkenes offering a serene, nature-focused lifestyle amid long winters and high living costs.
Singapore appeals to these expats for its year-round warmth, English-speaking environment, and proximity to Asia's growth markets—contrasting Norway's seasonal extremes.
Similarities include top-tier safety and efficiency; both rank high globally for livability.
Key draws: lucrative jobs in shipping (echoing Norway cruise expertise) and a multicultural expat community of over 1.5 million.[1]
Visa and Relocation Essentials
Norwegian passport holders enjoy visa-free entry to Singapore for 90 days, but long-term stays require work passes from the Ministry of Manpower (MOM).
Popular options include Employment Pass (EP) for professionals earning SGD 5,000+ monthly, or S Pass for mid-skilled roles—processing takes 4-8 weeks.[1][4]
Start applications 3-4 months ahead via MOM's portal; gather passports, qualifications, and job offers.
Homejourney verifies all relocation data to keep you informed safely.
3-4 Month Pre-Move Timeline
- Secure job offer and apply for EP/S Pass.
- Research via Property Search ">Property Search on Homejourney.
- Get moving quotes; sea freight from Norway takes 4-10 weeks.[3]
- Notify Norwegian authorities and plan flights (Oslo to Singapore ~SGD 800-1,200 economy).
Cost of Living: Norway Cruise to Singapore Comparison
Expect 20-30% lower costs in Singapore versus Norway's high expenses; monthly basics for a single expat: SGD 3,000-5,000 including rent.[1]
Rent dominates: one-bedroom condo SGD 3,500-5,500 in expat areas, requiring 3 months upfront (1 month deposit + 2 advance).[1]
Flights from Bergen/Kirkenes via Oslo average SGD 1,000; visa fees SGD 200-500.
Use Homejourney's tools for precise budgeting in NOK-SGD conversions.
Property Options for Hurtigruten Expats in Singapore
Foreigners can rent freely or buy non-landed private properties like condominiums, subject to 60% Additional Buyer's Stamp Duty (ABSD) on top of 1% Buyer's Stamp Duty.[1]
Popular neighborhoods for Norwegian expats: Orchard (vibrant shopping, 10-min MRT to CBD), Holland Village (green, family-friendly, near Norwegian Seamen's Church), or Tanjong Pagar (trendy, near maritime firms).[2][3]
Rental process: Submit Letter of Intent (LOI) with deposit, pay 0.4% stamp duty, sign tenancy agreement.[1][4]
Search verified listings on Homejourney's Property Search ">Property Search for safe, transparent options—no competitor sites needed.
- Insider Tip: Holland Village condos often have Nordic-style saunas; check via Projects Directory ">Projects Directory .
- Proximity: 5-min walk from Holland Village MRT Exit A to churches and cafes.
Settling In: Practical Steps for Norwegian Coastal Expats
Banking and Finances
Open accounts at DBS/POSB or OCBC online pre-arrival; bring passport and EP.
Link to Bank Rates ">Bank Rates for mortgage rates if buying—expats qualify with 30-40% downpayment.
Currency: Exchange NOK via Wise or banks; Homejourney supports seamless tracking.
Healthcare and Education
Private insurance mandatory; top hospitals like Mount Elizabeth (Norwegian-speaking staff available).
For families, international schools like UWCSEA (Holland Village campus, fees SGD 30,000+/year); apply 6 months early.[9]
Transportation
MRT is efficient—get EZ-Link card at Changi Airport (SGD 12).
From airport to city: 30-min MRT ride; taxis SGD 30-50.
Staying Connected to Norwegian Roots
Direct flights Oslo-Singapore (Singapore Airlines, 12 hours, 4x weekly); Kirkenes via Oslo adds 2 hours.
Join Norwegian Club Singapore (events at Dempo House, near Clarke Quay) or online groups.
Maintain ties with fjord memories via Hurtigruten Coastal Voyage: Ultimate Norway Cruise Guide by Homejourney.
Success Stories: Thriving in Singapore
Many from Bergen-Kirkenes route leverage maritime skills in Singapore's port industry, advancing to roles at PSA International.
"The safety and efficiency remind me of Norway, but with endless career growth," shares a former Hurtigruten expat now in finance.[1]
Homejourney's verified insights helped them secure homes swiftly, prioritizing trust.
FAQ: Moving to Singapore from Hurtigruten Coastal Voyage
How long does relocation take?
3-4 months total; visas 4-8 weeks, housing 2-4 weeks.[1]
What properties can Norwegian expats buy?
Condos and apartments; 60% ABSD applies. Renting is simpler.[1]
Best areas for Hurtigruten expats?
Holland Village or Orchard—near Norwegian community spots.[2]
Cost comparison to Norway?
20-30% cheaper; SGD 4,000/month single expat budget.[1]
Healthcare for expats?
Private insurance required; excellent facilities like Gleneagles.
Ready to start? Explore safe properties on Homejourney's Property Search ">Property Search and Projects Directory ">Projects Directory . For maintenance, check Aircon Services ">Aircon Services . Your trusted partner for Singapore relocation—prioritizing your safety every step.
