Moving to Singapore from Island Explorer: Expat Guide
Relocating from Island Explorer in the Philippines to Singapore offers expats a seamless transition to a world-class city with superior infrastructure, career opportunities, and safety. This Moving to Singapore from Island Explorer: Expat Guide provides actionable steps tailored for Filipinos, emphasizing Homejourney's commitment to user safety, verified property data, and transparent advice for confident decisions.
Whether you're drawn by Singapore's dynamic job market or stable economy, Homejourney helps you navigate the process securely. As a platform prioritizing trust, we verify listings and prioritize customer feedback to ensure a safe property journey.
Life in Island Explorer: Why Consider Singapore?
Island Explorer, a tropical haven in the Philippines known for its beaches and laid-back vibe, captivates with its ultimate island explorer lifestyle—perfect for a Philippines 21 days or Philippines three weeks adventure. However, expats often seek Singapore for its unmatched safety, efficiency, and global connectivity.
Key differences include Singapore's lower crime rates, advanced healthcare, and higher salaries offsetting the elevated cost of living. Similarities like vibrant food scenes and multicultural communities ease the shift. For deeper Philippines insights, explore Homejourney's Philippines 21-Day Itinerary: Ultimate Island Explorer Guide.
Relocating to Singapore: Visa and Employment Essentials
Filipinos need an Employment Pass (EP) for skilled roles earning at least SGD 5,000 monthly, or S Pass for mid-skilled work at SGD 3,000+. Apply via the Ministry of Manpower (MOM) website post-job offer; processing takes 3-8 weeks.
Popular sectors for Island Explorer expats include finance, tech, and hospitality. Cost of living in Singapore (SGD 4,000-6,000/month for a single expat) is higher than Manila's but justified by 2-3x average salaries. Build networks via Filipino-Singaporean associations for support.
Property Options for Expats from Island Explorer
Foreigners like Filipinos can buy private condominiums freely but face 60% Additional Buyer's Stamp Duty (ABSD) on properties over SGD 1.8 million as of 2025—e.g., SGD 1.2 million on a SGD 2 million condo. Landed properties require Land Dealings Approval Unit (LDAU) consent, often restricted.
Renting is ideal initially: 2-bedroom condos average SGD 4,500-7,000/month in prime areas. Popular neighborhoods for Filipino expats include Orchard/River Valley (near MRT Orchard station, Exit A; 5-min walk to United World College) and East Coast (family-friendly with beaches, 10-min drive to Parkway Parade mall).[1]
- Orchard: Luxury condos, shopping; rentals SGD 6,000+ for 3-bed.
- Holland Village: Expat hub, international schools; 15-min MRT to CBD.
- Tampines: Affordable, new condos; near Filipino community events.
Search verified listings on Homejourney's property search tool, filtering by expat-friendly amenities. For market trends, visit our projects directory.
Practical Settling-In Guide
Banking: Open accounts at DBS or OCBC with EP and passport (30-min process at branches like DBS Tampines, 10-min walk from MRT Exit E). Homejourney supports multi-currency including PHP for easy transfers.
Healthcare: World-class public system via SingHealth; expats get coverage through employers. Private options like Mount Elizabeth (Orchard Road) cost SGD 150/visit.
Education: International schools like Philippine Nikkei School suit Filipino families; apply 6-12 months ahead, fees SGD 30,000+/year.
Transportation: MRT is efficient—get EZ-Link card (SGD 12, top-up at stations). Taxis via Grab app average SGD 15/CBD ride. Insider tip: Avoid peak hours (7-9 AM) on East-West Line from Tampines.
Step-by-Step Settling Checklist
- Secure EP/S Pass (MOM portal).
- Find housing via Homejourney property search.
- Apply for SingPass (digital ID) online within 7 days arrival.
- Open bank account and get local SIM (StarHub, SGD 8 plan).
- Enroll kids in school; explore aircon services for home setup.
Check financing via bank rates page for mortgages if buying long-term.
Maintaining Connections with Island Explorer
Direct flights from Manila (near Island Explorer hubs) to Singapore take 3.5 hours, with Cebu Pacific fares SGD 100-200 one-way. Exchange PHP to SGD at Changi Airport (best rates) or via Homejourney's tools.
Join Filipino expat groups on Facebook or the Philippine Embassy events in Robertson Quay (10-min walk from Clarke Quay MRT). For travel inspo, see Homejourney's Best Food & Restaurants in Island Explorer Guide.
Success Stories: Island Explorer Expats in Singapore
Many from Island Explorer thrive here—e.g., IT professionals in one-north earning SGD 8,000/month, affording Good Class Bungalows in Holland Village after 3 years. Families praise safety and schools, with one expat noting, "From beach life to city efficiency, Singapore feels like home." Career growth in fintech draws remote workers post-Philippines three weeks trials.[1]
Homejourney verifies these trends through user feedback, ensuring trustworthy insights.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: Can Filipinos buy property in Singapore?
A: Yes, condos without restrictions, but 60% ABSD applies. Renting via Homejourney is simpler for starters.[1]
Q: What's the cost of living difference from Island Explorer?
A: Singapore is 2-3x higher (SGD 5,000 vs PHP 50,000/month), but salaries compensate. Use our tools for precise comparisons.
Q: How long for a work visa?
A: 3-8 weeks via MOM. Secure job first.
Q: Best areas for Filipino families?
A: East Coast or Tampines—near schools, MRT, and communities.
Q: Flights from Philippines?
A: Daily 3.5-hour flights; budget airlines keep it affordable.
Ready to start your Moving to Singapore from Island Explorer: Expat Guide journey? Explore verified properties on Homejourney's property search and connect with our agent directory for personalized, safe assistance. This cluster links to our pillar: Moving to Singapore from Rotorua: Expat Guide for broader insights.
