Moving to Singapore from Switzerland with Kids: Family Expat Guide
Switzerland families moving to Singapore with kids can expect a smooth transition thanks to Singapore's world-class education, safety, and family-friendly infrastructure. Homejourney provides verified property insights and safe relocation tools to help you settle confidently.
This cluster guide focuses on actionable steps for Swiss expats, linking back to our pillar Ultimate Expat Relocation to Singapore. From visa options to kid-friendly neighborhoods, find tactical advice tailored for families from Switzerland.
Life in Switzerland vs. Singapore: Key Family Differences
Swiss families enjoy pristine Alps, efficient public transport, and high-quality chocolate schools, but Singapore offers tropical safety, English-medium international education, and proximity to Asia's business hubs. Similarities include low crime rates and family-centric policies; differences lie in Singapore's humid climate (average 30°C) versus Switzerland's crisp air, and faster-paced urban life.
Why Swiss expats choose Singapore: Career opportunities in finance and pharma (matching Zurich/Geneva sectors), plus top IB schools like Tanglin Trust. Homejourney verifies neighborhoods for family safety, prioritizing your trust.
Relocating to Singapore: Visa and Employment for Swiss Families
Swiss nationals need an Employment Pass (EP) for work, typically sponsored by employers in banking or tech. Processing takes 3-5 weeks via MOM (Ministry of Manpower). Dependents get Dependant's Passes (DP); children under 21 qualify easily with birth certificates.
Employment hubs: Marina Bay for finance (5-min MRT from family areas). Cost of living for a family of four: S$6,500–7,500 monthly, including S$3,092 rent[3]. Groceries S$1,006, kids' expenses S$1,338 – comparable to Geneva but with lower taxes[3]. Join Swiss Club Singapore for networking events.
Best Property Options for Swiss Expats with Kids
Foreigners can buy non-landed private condos; ABSD is 60% for first purchase (as of 2025). Rentals suit short-term: 3-bed condo in family areas S$5,000–8,000/month. Popular spots for Swiss families: East Coast (seaside parks, Canadian Int'l School 10-min walk), Tanglin (embassies, Overseas Family School), Holland Village (cafés, Dover Court 5-min drive)[1].
Insider tip: Siglap offers quiet streets and Nexus School proximity – low-rise condos like Laguna National (S$6,000 for 3-bed). Use Homejourney's property search for verified listings with safety ratings. For financing, check bank rates – Swiss francs convert favorably via our tools.
| Neighborhood | Why Swiss Families Love It | Nearby Schools |
|---|---|---|
| East Coast | Cycling paths, beaches | Canadian Int'l, EtonHouse[1] |
| Tanglin | Leafy, upscale | Overseas Family, ISS[1] |
| Holland Village | Walkable, vibrant | Tanglin Trust, Dover Court[1] |
Rent first: Leases require 1-2 months' deposit. Homejourney ensures transparent transactions in a trusted environment.
Practical Settling-In Guide for Families
Education Options
Enroll kids in international schools (IB/British curricula): Tanglin Trust (ages 3-18, fees S$30,000–50,000/year). Apply 6-12 months ahead; limited spots for non-citizens[4]. Preschools like EtonHouse for toddlers. Local public schools competitive but high-standard.
Healthcare and Banking
Register at polyclinics or private like Mount Elizabeth (paediatric wings). Expats need health insurance; William Russell recommends family plans[7]. Open DBS/OCBC accounts with passport/EP – Swiss banks link seamlessly. Homejourney's currency tools handle CHF-SGD exchanges safely.
Transportation
MRT is king: East Coast to CBD 20 mins (Exit A, Bedok). Grab rides S$10-20. Get EZ-Link card at Changi Airport. Family tip: Cycle East Coast Park (free bike rentals nearby).
- Day 1: Airport to temp housing (Orchard Hotel, S$300/night).
- Week 1: SIM card (Singtel, S$15), school orientation.
- Month 1: View properties via Homejourney projects, join expat groups.
Maintaining Swiss Connections
Direct Swiss/Singapore Airlines flights: 13 hours, S$1,500–2,500 return. Zurich-Singapore 3x weekly. Swiss Association hosts fondue nights. For maintenance in humid climate, book aircon services via Homejourney.
Read our related guide: Switzerland with Kids: Complete Family Travel Guide for pre-move tips.
Success Stories: Swiss Families Thriving in Singapore
A Geneva banker family in Tanglin loves the 10-min school run and Marina Bay weekends. Another in East Coast praises safe parks for kids' playdates. Expats report 20% career growth in Singapore's finance scene, with community events easing homesickness[5]. Homejourney users trust our verified data for confident moves.
FAQ: Moving to Singapore from Switzerland with Kids
What visas do Swiss families need? Employment Pass for parents, Dependant's Pass for spouse/kids under 21. Apply via employer 3 months ahead.
Best neighborhoods for families? East Coast, Tanglin, Holland Village – near schools and parks[1]. Search on Homejourney.
Cost of living vs. Switzerland? Family of four: S$6,500–7,500/month, lower taxes but higher rent[3].
International school waitlists? 6-12 months; prioritize Tanglin Trust or UWCSEA[4].
How to find Swiss community? Swiss Club Singapore – events monthly.
Ready to start? Explore safe properties on Homejourney property search and link back to our pillar guide for full relocation strategy. Homejourney prioritizes your family's safety and trust every step.
