Moving to Singapore from Vietnam: Homejourney Expat Guide

Moving to Singapore from Vietnam offers expats access to a dynamic economy, world-class infrastructure, and a high quality of life. This Moving to Singapore from Vietnam and Must-See: Expat Guide provides actionable steps for a smooth transition, drawing on Homejourney's commitment to user safety, verified data, and transparent advice.

Whether you're eyeing property investment or long-term residency, Homejourney verifies market insights to help you decide confidently. This cluster article supports our pillar guide on International Relocation to Singapore, focusing on Vietnam-specific insights for expats.

Life in Vietnam vs. Singapore: Key Differences for Expats

Vietnam's vibrant street life and low costs contrast with Singapore's efficient systems and higher expenses. Expats from Vietnam often move for better career prospects in finance, tech, and logistics—sectors booming in Singapore. Similarities include multicultural vibes and Asian cuisine, but Singapore offers superior safety and healthcare.

Insider tip: Vietnamese expats appreciate Singapore's hawker centers like Lau Pa Sat, reminiscent of pho stalls back home but with stricter hygiene standards. Cost of living in Singapore is higher—single expats budget SGD 3,500-6,000 monthly versus Vietnam's lower baseline—but salaries often double to compensate[2][7].

Relocating to Singapore: Visa and Employment Essentials

Vietnamese nationals need an Employment Pass (EP) for skilled jobs earning over SGD 5,000 monthly, processed via MOM (Ministry of Manpower). S Pass suits mid-skilled roles; processing takes 3-8 weeks. Family can join on Dependant's Pass.

Employment hubs like Marina Bay attract Vietnamese tech talent. Compare costs: Vietnam's Hanoi living is 50-60% cheaper, but Singapore's tax rates (0-22%) and no capital gains tax appeal to professionals[2]. Join Vietnamese expat groups on Facebook for networking—over 15,000 members share job leads.

Property for Vietnamese Expats in Singapore

Foreigners face 60% ABSD on purchases (e.g., SGD 1.2M extra on a SGD 2M condo), so renting is popular[3]. Expats favor Tanjong Pagar or Joo Chiat for Vietnamese communities—2-bedroom condos rent SGD 4,000-7,000 in central areas, SGD 2,500-5,000 in suburbs like Tampines[2][3][6].

Actionable Steps for Property Hunt:

Search via Property Search for verified listings near MRT (e.g., 5-min walk from Outram Park MRT).
Budget utilities at SGD 200/month; check Bank Rates for financing if buying later.
Explore Projects for new launches in expat-friendly Holland Village.
Post-move, book aircon servicing via Aircon Services —essential in humid Singapore.

Rentals stabilize in 2025; short-term options via Airbnb for first month (SGD 3,000-5,000)[3][8]. Homejourney prioritizes safe transactions with verified agents.

Practical Settling-In Guide for Vietnamese Expats

Banking and Finances

Open a DBS or OCBC account with passport and EP—takes 1 day. Homejourney supports VND-SGD transfers seamlessly. Exchange rates fluctuate; monitor via our tools before wiring savings.

Healthcare and Education

MediShield Life covers basics; expats opt for private insurance (SGD 1,500/year). International schools like Canadian International cost SGD 30,000-40,000 annually[4]. Clinics like Raffles Medical (Raffles Place, 2-min from MRT Exit A) offer English/Vietnamese services.

Transportation

MRT monthly pass: SGD 120; max fare SGD 2.26[5]. From Changi Airport to city: 40-min MRT ride. Taxis average SGD 20-30 to CBD.

Maintaining Connections: Vietnam to Singapore

Direct flights from Ho Chi Minh City to Singapore take 2.5 hours (SGD 100-200 return via VietJet). Visit family easily on weekends. Currency: 1 SGD ≈ 18,000 VND; use Homejourney for real-time rates.

Connect via Vietnam-Singapore Association or events at Vietnamese Embassy (301 Pepys Road). For trip planning, see our Vietnam 7-Day Itinerary: Best Highlights Guide | Homejourney or Homejourney's Budget Travel Guide to Vietnam & Must-Sees (7 Days) .

Success Stories: Why Vietnamese Expats Thrive

A Hanoi engineer relocated to Singapore's tech scene, doubling salary and renting in Bugis (SGD 4,500/month). Another opened a Vietnamese eatery in Lucky Plaza, tapping expat demand. Career growth in fintech draws many—Singapore hosts 200+ Vietnamese firms.

Homejourney verifies these trends via EdgeProp Property News data, ensuring trustworthy insights[3].

FAQ: Moving to Singapore from Vietnam

Q: Can Vietnamese buy property in Singapore?
A: Yes, but 60% ABSD applies; renting is advised initially. Use Property Search for options.

Q: What's the cost of living comparison?
A: SGD 3,500-6,000 for singles vs. Vietnam's lower costs; housing dominates[2][7].

Q: How to get a work visa?
A: Secure EP via employer; min SGD 5,000 salary. Check MOM.gov.sg.

Q: Best neighborhoods for Vietnamese expats?
A: Joo Chiat or Tanjong Pagar—vibrant, near pho spots, MRT access.

Q: Flight frequency from HCMC to Singapore?
A: 20+ daily flights; 2.5 hours, budget airlines from SGD 50 one-way.

Ready to explore? Start your safe property journey with Homejourney's verified search at Property Search . Link back to our pillar: International Relocation to Singapore for full guides. Your trusted partner for transparent Singapore moves.