✅ Why Moving to Singapore from the UK Is Easier Than You Think
Introduction
Singapore has evolved into one of the most popular places for UK expats to relocate to—and rightly so! The clean, safe, and modern way of life within the city-state, superb job opportunities, world-class schooling, and a generally higher standard of living are the main attractions. Singapore is a city-state with a thriving economy based on finance, technology, and innovation that attracts professionals from around the world. English, as one of the official languages, and the large British expat community fit seamlessly into daily life.
This guide takes you through what you need to know about moving to Singapore — from visa options, job opportunities, housing, lifestyle, and relocation tips. Singapore is not just a place to work; it is a place to develop, socialize, and experience one of the most vibrant cultures in the world. Moving for career purposes or a better lifestyle, Singapore has a combination of comfort, variety, and opportunity that is hard to find anywhere else.
Is It Possible to Move from the UK to Singapore?
Yes, you certainly can move from the UK to Singapore, and many Britons have already done so. Singapore actively invites foreign entrepreneurs, professionals, and families who would like to live and work in this prosperous economy. While you do not need a visa to enter Singapore as a tourist for up to 90 days (except those coming from countries where visas are necessary), anyone who wishes to work, study, or stay in Singapore for a more extended period will need to apply for the appropriate employment, dependent, or residency visa before moving.
The nature of the process is intuitive, but it is best tackled with a plan. The majority of UK professionals move to Singapore and receive Employment Passes or EntrePasses, depending on whether they are working for a company or starting their own businesses. The Singaporean government has a very structured immigration system, and the eligibility processes are well published on their easy-to-use site. This makes it easier for skilled workers to move successfully.
With a low crime rate, world-class healthcare, a fantastic economy, and English environments, Singapore will continue to be one of the most straightforward and most enjoyable countries in Asia for UK citizens to move to. Whether you are driving on a short-term job contract or on a longer-term move (along with your family), Singapore offers the modern, diverse, multicultural lifestyle combining professionalism, comfort, and opportunity.
How to move to Singapore from the UK
The choice to move from the UK to Singapore is an imposing decision that leads to new adventures and opportunities. Singapore has a robust economy and a stable government and has established a thriving expat community that includes over 50,000 British expats, making it one of the most desirable countries for professionals to relocate to, as well as families!
1. Explore Your Visa Options
You should begin by researching the types of visas you can apply for as a UK citizen. The most frequently used visas will be the Employment Pass, EntrePass, and Dependent Pass. Each visa has its own requirements depending on how you are relocating, whether for work, business, or family. Singapore has a high approval rate for skilled professionals, which is 85% on average.
2. Get a Job Offer or Sponsor
You will need a firm job offer from a company in Singapore before you get the ball rolling. With growing recruitment in fields like finance, healthcare, and engineering, UK graduates benefit from strong job prospects after studying in Singapore. The unemployment rate in Singapore is 2% as of 2025, which is indicative of a strong demand for foreign talent. Typically, your employers will sponsor your work visa for you, which helps you with your move.
3. Obtain the Proper Visa
After securing a job offer, your employer will submit your visa application to the Ministry of Manpower (MOM) in Singapore. The process takes one to three weeks, depending on the specific visa type. To avoid issues when applying for the visa, be sure to submit all necessary documentation (passport, degree documents/certificates, and a letter from your employer confirming your job offer, in particular) and ensure that those documents are accurate.
4. Find Somewhere to Live
Housing in Singapore is modern and practical. Expat options tend to be in neighbourhoods such as Orchard Road, Holland Village, and East Coast. Rent for a one-bedroom apartment ranges from £1,500 to £2,500 per month, depending on the area. Many newcomers secure a serviced apartment before they find more permanent accommodation after settling in.
5. Create a Financial and Health Insurance Plan
Singapore has a reputation for excellent living standards, but also a very high quality of life. Average monthly costs for one person can be £1,800 to £2,500. The healthcare is top-notch and is ranked sixth in the world by the World Health Organisation, but military personnel will need private health insurance since local subsidies are only for citizens.
6. Book Flights and Gather Travel Documents
Direct flights from London to Singapore typically take 13 hours, and numerous airlines operate daily, including Singapore Airlines and British Airways. You will also want to have your arrival letter, your signed job contract, and the landlord's or company's details readily available for immigration control. Having both paper and electronic copies will be helpful for a smooth travel experience.
7. Register Your Residence, Set Up a Local Bank Account, and Get a Singapore SIM Card
Once you arrive, take care of your residence registration, local bank account opening, and obtaining a Singapore mobile phone SIM card. Singapore has an efficient banking environment, with banks such as DBS, OCBC, and UOB adapting their services to huge expat populations. New arrivals often settle quickly so long as they have basic knowledge of English, and Singapore residents benefit from well-organized administrative processes.
8. Get Used to the Way of Life
Singapore offers a clean, safe, and enjoyable way of life. The public transport network alone has over 200 km of rail lines, making commuting to and from work relatively inexpensive and easy. Additionally, the tropical climate, food options, and strong work-life balance mean expats quickly feel at home in this global business hub.
[Do you know: Which Documents Do You Need for a Smooth Singapore Immigration Process]
Visa and Entry Requirements for UK Citizens
Relocating to Singapore from the UK is a simple process thanks to Singapore's transparent and efficient immigration system. While British citizens can enter Singapore without a visa for a short stay, if you want to work, study, or live there for an extended period, you need to apply for an approved visa before arriving.
1. Visa-Free Short Visits
British citizens can enter Singapore without a visa for up to 90 days for tourism or short-term business visits. Visitors will need to show proof of onward travel, have a valid passport with at least six months of validity, and enough funds to cover their stay and other costs in Singapore. Visitors should take care not to overstay, as this can lead to fines or affect future visa applications.
2. Employment Visa
The Employment Pass (EP) is suitable for professionals who have a job offer in Singapore. Candidates applying for EP need to earn a minimum monthly salary of SGD 5,000 (approximately £2,950) and have acceptable qualifications. Most EP applications are processed within three weeks, and the EP pass is issued for up to two years.
3. S Visa
The S Pass is for mid-skilled workers, and the minimum salary requirement to apply is at least SGD 3,150 per month (£1,850). Technicians and service professionals often use the S Pass. The S Pass is valid for up to two years and can be renewed. If an employer uses this visa for employment, there are also quotas and levies that the employer must comply with on behalf of the worker.
4. EntreVisa
Entrepreneurs who want to establish a business can apply for the EntrePass as a qualifying pass. To apply, you must be able to demonstrate a viable business plan and have a minimum of SGD 50,000 (£29,000) in successfully raised paid-up capital. This pass is intended to promote an innovation-driven start-up ecosystem as well as support and retain entrepreneurial talent in Singapore, specifically in relation to specific sectors and products developed from Singapore's growing knowledge economy.
5. Dependent Visa
Family members of Employment Pass or S Pass holders can join them in Singapore by applying for a dependent visa for family or spouse. Eligible family members are a spouse and children under the age of 21. The principal visa holder must receive at least SGD 6,000 (£3,550) to sponsor family members for a Dependent Pass. This supports the principal visa holder's ability to support their family financially.
6. Long-Term Visit Visa
Parents, common-law partners, or stepchildren of foreign professionals can apply for a Long-Term Visit Pass. This allows family members to stay in Singapore for longer than the standard 90 days. Applicants must satisfy financial requirements and demonstrate family ties to qualify for the Long-Term Visit Pass in accordance with Singapore's immigration regulations.
7. Student Visa
Citizens of the UK attending a recognized university in Singapore will need a Student visa. Applications can be submitted online via the SOLAR+ system and are usually processed within 2 to 4 weeks. Students must demonstrate they are maintaining attendance and performance in order to continue qualifying for the duration of their studies.
8. Permanent Residency (PR)
Long-term expatriates may apply for PR status after living and working in Singapore for at least two years. PR status confers certain benefits such as easier access to employment, eligibility to purchase a home, and educational privileges. The approval rate for PR in Singapore is estimated at around 30 to 40 per cent on an annual basis.
9. Entry Documentation Checklist
Before your trip, make sure to have your valid passport, visa approval letter (if applicable), a ticket home, and accommodation information. Immigration officers may request that you show them these documents at the entry point to Singapore. For your arrival process, it is recommended to bring both printed and digital copies of your documentation.
10. Health and Vaccination Requirements
No required vaccines exist for entry from the UK. You have the information on routine vaccinations; we recommend you keep them up to date. Health screenings may be applicable based on the type of visa and/or length of stay for those on a long-term visa. This may include a TB or HIV test.
Cost of Living in Singapore
Clean, modern, and efficient, Singapore is ideal for expats, but the cost of living in Singapore can be steep. Here's a breakdown of typical monthly expenses for UK residents.
- Accommodation: City apartments cost SGD 3,500–5,000 (£2,000–£2,900); outside the city, around SGD 2,000–3,000.
- Utilities & Internet: Around SGD 250–350 (£145–£200) monthly, depending on usage.
- Food & Dining: Local meals from SGD 5–8, mid-range restaurants SGD 25–40 per person.
- Transportation: Monthly MRT/bus pass about SGD 120 (£70); taxi base fare starts at SGD 4.
- Healthcare: GP visits SGD 50–80, specialists SGD 120–200; private insurance recommended.
- Education: International schools cost SGD 25,000–45,000 (£14,500–£26,000) per year.
- Entertainment: Movie tickets SGD 15, gym memberships SGD 100–150 monthly.
- Taxes: Low personal income tax (0–22%) and no capital gains tax.
- Childcare: Around SGD 1,200–1,800 per month; domestic helper SGD 700–1,000.
- Overall Cost: Singles spend SGD 3,000–5,000 (£1,750–£2,900) monthly; families SGD 7,000–9,000 (£4,000–£5,200).
Pathway to Permanent Residency (PR)
Singapore PR options for UK citizens provide a clear path for those looking to transition from temporary residence to permanent stay in the country. Gaining PR status provides long-term stability, access to local benefits, and greater job flexibility. Here's how the process typically works.
- Eligibility: You can apply for PR after working in Singapore for at least two years under an Employment Pass or S Pass.
- Application Authority: PR applications are handled by the Immigration & Checkpoints Authority (ICA).
- Typical Schemes: The main routes include the Professional, Technical Personnel and Skilled Workers Scheme (PTS), the Global Investor Programme (GIP), and the Foreign Artistic Talent Scheme.
- Key Requirements: You'll need a valid employment record, consistent income, tax contributions, and proof of integration into Singapore society.
- Documentation: Required documents include your passport, work pass, tax statements, salary slips, and employer's reference.
- Processing Time: The PR application review usually takes four to six months, depending on the case.
- Benefits of PR: PRs enjoy easier job transitions, eligibility for public housing (HDB flats), and access to CPF (Central Provident Fund) savings.
- Family Inclusion: You can include your spouse and children under 21 in your PR application.
- Approval Rate: Around 30–40% of applications are approved annually, depending on professional skills and contribution to the economy.
- Next Step: After obtaining PR, you can apply for Singapore citizenship after two years of permanent residency, subject to eligibility.
Conclusion
Moving from the UK to Singapore provides excellent opportunities for career advancement, cultural integration, and an outstanding lifestyle. With its healthy economy, effective systems, and friendly expat population, Singapore ranks as one of the most attractive locations to live and work in Asia.
While living standards may be more expensive than in some regions, the benefits — safety, health care, professional development—usually outweigh the expenses. With a good understanding of visa requirements, some planning for finances, and choosing the right area, the moving process can be easy and pleasant.
For UK citizens, Singapore is much more than a location to work; it is also a place to succeed. Whether it is yourself or yourself and your family that will be moving, the city is now a local destination for finding the balance between professionalism, comfort, and global access for this next stage of life.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can UK citizens move to Singapore easily?
Yes, UK citizens can move to Singapore, but they need a valid work, study, or dependent visa. Short visits of up to 90 days are visa-free under the Singapore-UK travel agreement. For long-term stays, a valid pass issued by Singapore's Ministry of Manpower (MOM) or ICA is required.
2. Do UK citizens need a visa to live and work in Singapore?
Yes, to live and work in Singapore, UK citizens must hold an Employment Pass, S Pass, or EntrePass, depending on their job and qualifications. Each visa type has specific salary and skill requirements. Employers usually handle visa sponsorship for skilled professionals.
3. What are the main visa options for UK citizens moving to Singapore?
The main options include the Employment Pass (for professionals earning SGD 5,000+), S Pass (for mid-skilled workers), and EntrePass (for entrepreneurs starting a business). Students can apply for a Student Pass, while dependents use a Dependant's Pass. Permanent residency is possible after several years of legal residence.
4. How long can a UK citizen stay in Singapore without a visa?
UK citizens can stay up to 90 days visa-free for tourism or short business trips. For more extended stays, applying for the appropriate visa or pass before arrival is essential. Overstaying can result in fines or future entry bans.
5. What is the cost of living in Singapore compared to the UK?
Singapore's living costs are high but balanced by substantial salaries and tax benefits. A single person spends about SGD 3,000–5,000 per month, while rent in central areas can exceed SGD 2,500. However, income tax rates (0–22%) are significantly lower than in the UK.
6. Is accommodation easy to find in Singapore?
Yes, housing is readily available, but it can be expensive in city areas. Most expats choose condominiums or HDB flats near MRT stations. Websites and local agents make it easy to secure rentals before or after arrival.
7. Can UK citizens drive in Singapore?
Yes, UK licence holders can drive in Singapore for up to 12 months using an International Driving Permit (IDP). After that, you must convert your UK licence to a Singapore licence. A simple theory test is required for conversion.
8. How is healthcare in Singapore for UK expats?
Singapore offers world-class healthcare services, ranked among the best globally. While there's no free NHS-style system, private insurance is essential for expats. Many employers provide comprehensive medical coverage as part of job benefits.
9. Can UK citizens bring family members when moving to Singapore?
Yes, dependents can join under a Dependant's Pass (for spouses and children) or Long-Term Visit Pass (for parents). Family members can also apply for work authorisation if eligible. Singapore's international schools and healthcare make it family-friendly.
10. What are the tax benefits for UK expats in Singapore?
Singapore has one of the world's lowest income tax systems, ranging from 0% to 22%. There is no capital gains or inheritance tax, which attracts many UK professionals. Double taxation agreements between the UK and Singapore prevent paying tax twice.
11. How long does it take to get Singapore Permanent Residency (PR)?
PR applications are typically accepted after 2 to 5 years of continuous residence under an Employment Pass or similar visa. Factors like income, education, and family ties influence approval. Successful PR holders gain benefits such as local healthcare and education access.
12. What are the best tips for relocating from the UK to Singapore?
Plan early by securing your work visa, accommodation, and health insurance before arriving. Learn basic local customs and laws—Singapore has strict regulations on cleanliness, smoking, and littering. Keep all essential documents ready and register your residence shortly after arrival.
