Moving to Singapore from Norway Denmark: Expat Guide
Moving to Singapore from Norway or Denmark offers Nordic expats a vibrant shift from high-quality Nordic living to Asia's dynamic economic hub. Homejourney provides verified property insights and safe relocation support, prioritizing your trust and security in this transition.[1][2]
Denmark tops global quality-of-life rankings with excellent healthcare and work-life balance, while Norway excels in personal freedoms and high salaries averaging $65,281 annually.[1][3] Singapore ranks high in economic quality, attracting professionals seeking career growth amid Nordic challenges like high costs ($3,500/month in Oslo) and social integration hurdles.[1][4]
Why Nordic Expats Choose Singapore
Nordic countries like Denmark (#1 overall) and Norway (#3) offer superior living conditions, but expats often face difficulties making local friends—only 17% in Norway find it easy versus 38% globally.[1][4] Singapore counters this with its expat-friendly environment, English as the main language, and strong professional networks.
Key draws include Singapore's top economic ranking and safety, blending Nordic values of efficiency with tropical vibrancy. For families from hygge-loving Denmark or nature-centric Norway, Singapore provides international schools and green spaces like Gardens by the Bay.
Explore our Ultimate 14-Day Scandinavia Itinerary if planning a farewell Nordic trip before relocating.
Relocating to Singapore: Visa and Employment Essentials
For Norwegian and Danish citizens, Singapore's Employment Pass (EP) is ideal for professionals earning over S$5,000/month (about 37,000 NOK or 25,000 DKK). Apply via the Ministry of Manpower (MOM) website; processing takes 3 weeks. Spouses can apply for a Dependant's Pass.[5][6]
- Secure a Job Offer: Target finance, tech, or oil/gas sectors—Singapore hosts Nordic firms like Equinor (Norway) and Maersk (Denmark).
- Apply for EP: Employer submits; include qualifications and salary proof.
- Relocation Logistics: Use services like Crown Relocations for seamless moves from Copenhagen or Oslo to Changi Airport.[5]
Employment opportunities abound in Singapore's economy, contrasting Nordic welfare with merit-based advancement. Homejourney verifies market data via our projects directory for informed decisions.
Cost of Living Comparison
Norway's Oslo costs $3,500/month, Denmark slightly less, but Singapore's is comparable at S$4,000-6,000 for a family, offset by no capital gains tax and higher expat salaries.[3] Housing dominates: Nordic rents are high, while Singapore rentals start at S$3,500 for a 2-bed condo.
Insider Tip: Nordic expats save by shopping at NTUC FairPrice (like Kiwi in Norway) and using EZ-Link cards for MRT—faster than Copenhagen's bikes in humid weather.
Property Options for Nordic Expats in Singapore
Foreigners can't buy HDB flats but can purchase private condos or landed properties (with approval). Expect 60% Additional Buyer's Stamp Duty (ABSD) on purchases—e.g., S$600,000 extra on a S$1M condo. Rentals are foreigner-friendly, averaging S$4,000-7,000/month in expat areas.[6]
Popular neighborhoods for Norway Denmark expats:
- Orchard/Tanglin: Upscale, 10-min walk to MRT Exit A, near cold-storage supermarkets reminiscent of Nordic grocery chains.
- Holland Village: Family-friendly, 5-min to Holland Village MRT, with international schools like United World College.
- East Coast: Relaxed vibe, beaches for fjord lovers, rentals from S$5,000.
Search verified listings on Homejourney's property search platform, designed for safe, transparent transactions. Check mortgage rates for financing options supporting NOK/DKK conversions.
Practical Settling-In Guide
Banking: Open accounts at DBS or OCBC (bring passport, EP). Homejourney supports Nordic currencies for seamless transfers.
Healthcare: World-class like Norway's, with public subsidies; get Integrated Shield Plan for private care (S$1,500/year).
Education: Top international schools like Tanglin Trust (British curriculum, S$30,000/year), ideal for Danish/Norwegian families.
Transportation: MRT is efficient—Changi Airport to city in 30 mins. Get a SingPass for all services.
Post-move, maintain your property with Homejourney's aircon services, crucial in Singapore's humidity unlike Nordic climates.
Maintaining Nordic Connections
Direct flights: Singapore Airlines from Oslo (13 hours) or Copenhagen (12 hours), 3x weekly. Join Nordic expat groups like Singapore Norwegian Society or Danish Club for hygge events.
Currency: Exchange NOK/DKK via Homejourney tools; monitor rates against SGD. Reference our Best Food & Restaurants in Norway & Denmark for homesick remedies.
Success Stories from Nordic Expats
A Danish engineer at Maersk shared: "Singapore's efficiency matches Denmark's, but career growth is unmatched." Norwegian families praise international schools and safety for kids. Many invest via Homejourney after visiting, citing transparency as key.
Compare with our Moving to Singapore from Boston guide for more insights.
FAQ: Moving to Singapore from Norway Denmark
Q: Can Norwegians/Danes buy property in Singapore?
A: Yes, private condos with 60% ABSD; rentals unrestricted. Use Homejourney for verified options.
Q: What's the cost of living difference?
A: Similar to Oslo (S$4,000-6,000 vs $3,500), but tax advantages boost savings.[3]
Q: Best areas for Nordic families?
A: Holland Village or East Coast—walkable, green, near schools.
Q: Visa processing time?
A: 3 weeks for EP; start with job offer.[5]
Q: Flights from Scandinavia?
A: 12-13 hours direct; book via Changi hub.
Ready to move? Start your safe journey with Homejourney's verified property search and expert guidance. This cluster links to our pillar: Ultimate Expat Relocation to Singapore Guide. Contact us for personalized support prioritizing your security.
