Moving to Singapore from UK: Homejourney Expat Guide
This definitive guide equips UK expats moving to Singapore with everything needed for a seamless relocation, from visas to property hunting in a safe, trusted environment. Homejourney prioritizes your security through verified listings and transparent advice, helping British in Singapore build confident new lives.[1][2]
Whether chasing career opportunities or a vibrant lifestyle, Singapore offers world-class efficiency. We've drawn from official sources like MOM and ICA, plus insider expat insights, to cover visas, housing, costs, and more. Bookmark this as your go-to resource for relocate Singapore from UK success.
Table of Contents
- Why Move to Singapore from the UK?
- Visa and Work Permits for UK Citizens
- Employment Opportunities
- Cost of Living Comparison: UK vs Singapore
- Property Guide for UK Expats
- Best Neighborhoods for British Expats
- Practical Settling-In Guide
- Maintaining UK Connections
- Expat Success Stories
- FAQ: UK Expats in Singapore
Why Move to Singapore from the UK?
Singapore attracts UK expat Singapore communities with its stability, low crime, and English-speaking environment—over 30,000 Brits call it home. Unlike the UK's variable weather, expect year-round 28-32°C sunshine and efficient public services.[1][2]
Key draws include tax advantages (no capital gains tax), proximity to Asia's growth markets, and family-friendly policies. Insider tip: Many Brits love the seamless MRT system, cutting commute times versus London Tube delays.[2]
Key Differences and Similarities
- Similarities: English official language, multicultural vibes like London, British pubs (e.g., The British Hooligan in Holland Village).
- Differences: Strict laws (fines for littering), tropical climate vs UK chill, higher housing costs but lower dining out.[1][3]
Homejourney's verified data shows Singapore's GDP per capita at SGD 100,000+, outpacing the UK, fueling expat career leaps.[2]
Visa and Work Permits for UK Citizens
UK citizens enjoy 90-day visa-free entry for tourism, but long-term stays require passes from MOM or ICA. The Employment Pass (EP) suits professionals: minimum SGD 5,600/month salary (rising with age to SGD 10,500 for 45+).[1][2]
Apply via employer post-job offer; processing takes 3 weeks. Dependants Pass for spouses/kids under EP. For entrepreneurs, EntrePass needs SGD 50,000+ investment. Brexit unchanged: no EU ties impact.[3]
Insider tip: Use MOM's Self-Assessment Tool online before applying—90% approval for qualified UK finance/tech pros.[1]
| Visa Type | Eligibility | Duration | Salary Min (SGD) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Employment Pass | Skilled professionals | 1-2 years, renewable | 5,600 |
| S Pass | Mid-skilled | 2 years | 3,150 |
| Dependant's Pass | EP/SP holders' family | Same as principal | N/A |
Source: MOM guidelines.[1][2] Homejourney advises consulting ICA for updates.
Employment Opportunities for British Expats
Singapore's 3.5% unemployment draws UK talent in finance (Raffles Place), tech (one-north), and oil/gas (Jurong). Firms like HSBC, Standard Chartered hire Brits readily.[1][3]
Average expat salary: SGD 120,000/year vs UK £50,000. Job hunt via LinkedIn, MyCareersFuture.sg. Insider: Network at British Chamber events (Tanglin Club, 10-min from Orchard MRT).[2]
Cost of Living Comparison: UK vs Singapore
Singapore edges pricier (20-30% higher), driven by housing, but offsets with lower taxes and transport. Use Homejourney's Bank Rates for real-time GBP-SGD conversions.[2][3]
| Category | London (GBP) | Singapore (SGD) |
|---|---|---|
| Rent (2-bed city) | 2,500 | 5,000-6,500 |
| Transport Monthly | 150 | 150 |
| Meal Out | 20 | 15 |
| Groceries Weekly | 80 | 120 |
Adapted from expat data; SGD 1 ≈ GBP 0.58 (2026).[2][3] Families budget SGD 10,000-15,000/month.
Property Guide for UK Expats in Singapore
Foreigners can't buy HDB flats (99-year leases for citizens) but can purchase condos or landed properties (URA approval needed). Key: 60% ABSD on first buy (e.g., SGD 1.2M tax on SGD 2M condo as of 2025).[2]
Renting dominates for expats: 1-2 year leases, 2-3 months deposit. Average 2-bed condo: SGD 4,500-6,500. Homejourney's Property Search verifies safe rentals, prioritizing user trust.[2]
Insider tip: Serviced apartments (e.g., Fraser Suites Orchard, 5-min to MRT) ideal for first 1-3 months, SGD 3,000+.[1]
Buying vs Renting Decision Framework
- Assess stay length: <5 years? Rent to avoid ABSD.
- Check finances: Use Bank Rates for mortgage rates (2-3% fixed).
- Explore Projects Directory for verified condos.
- Consult Homejourney agents for URA-compliant buys.
Best Neighborhoods for British in Singapore
UK expats flock to areas mimicking home comforts. Homejourney data highlights family safety and MRT access.[2]
- Orchard/Holland Village: British pubs, Tanglin Trust School (5-min drive), rents SGD 5,500 (2-bed). Orchard MRT Exit A, 10-min walk to Cold Storage UK imports.[1][2]
- East Coast (Siglap): Beach walks like Brighton, Bedok MRT 15-min cycle, 3-bed SGD 5,000.[2][4]
- Bukit Timah: Green spaces, international schools, Cold Storage (UK goods), 15-min to CBD.[2][4]
- River Valley: Cafes, high-rises, great transport.[4]
Search verified options on Property Search .
Practical Settling-In Guide for UK Expats
Banking and Finances
Open DBS/POSB at Changi Airport (10-min from Arrival Hall) with EP/passport. Transfer GBP via Wise, link to Homejourney's multi-currency tools.[2][3]
Healthcare
World-class: Mount Elizabeth Novena (Orchard MRT Exit C, 2-min walk). EP holders use public clinics cheaply; get insurance for pre-existing.[2] Not free—budget SGD 500/month family plan.
Education
Top internationals: Tanglin Trust (British curriculum, Bukit Timah), UWCSEA (East Coast). Fees SGD 30,000/year/child. Apply 6-12 months ahead.[1]
Transportation
UK licence + IDP valid 12 months; convert via theory test. MRT/ERP system efficient—SGD 150/month pass. Taxis/Grab ubiquitous.[1][2]
Post-move: Schedule Aircon Services for home maintenance.
Maintaining Connections with the UK
Direct flights: 13 hours Singapore Airlines (Heathrow-Changi, SGD 800 return). British Association Singapore hosts events; join expat Facebook groups.[1]
Currency: Track GBP-SGD on Homejourney. Register address with ICA within 14 days.[1]
Expat Success Stories: Why Brits Love Singapore
"From London finance to Singapore fintech—doubled salary, kids thrive at Tanglin," says expat Mark T. Safety and efficiency top reasons 80% renew EPs.[2]
Business hubs like Block71 foster UK startups. Homejourney connects you to networks like British Chamber.[1]
FAQ: UK Expats Moving to Singapore
Can UK citizens buy property in Singapore?
Yes, condos with 60% ABSD; renting easier initially. Search Property Search .[2]
EP salary threshold for Brits?
SGD 5,600 min, higher for older applicants.[1][2]
Best neighborhoods for UK families?
Holland Village/Bukit Timah—schools, UK groceries.[2]
Initial move budget?
SGD 10,000-15,000 (deposit, flights).[2]
Healthcare for expats?
Affordable public; private insurance essential.[2]
Drive on UK licence?
Yes, 12 months with IDP, then convert.[1]
Ready for relocate Singapore from UK? Start with Homejourney's Property Search for verified homes, Bank Rates for financing, and agents for guidance. We verify every listing for your safety, turning relocation into a trusted journey.
