Singapore – Landlines and Mobile Phones

What are the international dialling codes for Singapore, and what are the area codes for the most popular expat destinations?

Singapore’s international country dialling code is +65. To reach a Singapore number from overseas, dial your country’s international exit prefix (commonly 00 or 011), then 65, then the complete eight-digit local number. Because Singapore is a geographically compact city-state, no area or trunk codes exist — all numbers belong to a single national numbering zone and share the same eight-digit format. This simplicity stands in contrast to larger nations like Germany or Australia, where callers must account for city codes and drop leading zeros.

Both fixed-line and mobile numbers consist of eight digits. Mobile numbers generally start with 8 or 9, while fixed-line numbers start with 6. There is no leading zero to omit when dialling from abroad — you simply enter +65 followed directly by the eight-digit number. As an illustration, a landline might appear as +65 6123 4567, and a mobile number as +65 9123 4567.

The shared international dialling prefix for outgoing international calls is 000, which all licensed telecommunications providers must support. In practice, however, this code is rarely used, as carrier-specific access codes are far more common — for instance, 001 for Singtel, 002 for M1, and 008 for StarHub. When dialling from a mobile phone, a plus sign (+) can be substituted for any of these prefixes.

Singapore’s telephone numbering arrangements — collectively known as the National Numbering Plan — are administered and regulated by the Info-communications Media Development Authority (IMDA). For authoritative and up-to-date numbering information, refer to the IMDA official website.

Numbers beginning with 1800 xxx xxxx are toll-free domestic services; calls to them are free when made from a landline, though mobile airtime charges typically apply. The ‘1800’ prefix is effectively an alias for ‘6’, so these numbers can be reached from outside Singapore as paid calls by substituting ‘+65 6xxx xxxx’ for ‘1800 xxx xxxx’. Numbers starting with 1900 are premium-rate services.

Who are the major landline providers in Singapore, and how can you contact them?

Singapore Telecommunications Limited, known commercially as Singtel, is the country’s primary fixed-line operator and one of the four main mobile network operators. Singtel commands around 82% of the fixed-line market, making it the default choice for most households seeking a traditional home telephone connection. Its services are frequently bundled together with broadband internet and television packages.

Singtel, M1 and StarHub all provide home telephone services, directory enquiry facilities, and international direct dialling to destinations worldwide. An important practical distinction exists between providers: Singtel offers conventional copper-wire landline connections, which continue to function during power outages, while M1 and StarHub deliver digital voice services transmitted over broadband lines, which require mains power to operate. This difference may be significant for households where power resilience is a priority.

The main fixed-line providers and their contact details are listed below. Always consult each provider’s official website for up-to-date tariffs, as plans and pricing are subject to change.

Among the licensed retail service providers for home telephony and broadband are Singtel, StarHub, M1, MyRepublic, ViewQwest and WhizComms. Smaller operators such as ViewQwest and WhizComms tend to cater to niche audiences, including home-based businesses and households with particular international calling requirements. For pricing and plan specifics, contact each provider directly, as tariffs evolve frequently (as of 2025, all major providers offer bundled voice and broadband packages — visit individual provider websites for current figures).

Who are the major mobile phone providers in Singapore, and how can you contact them?

Singapore has four mobile network operators: M1, SIMBA (formerly TPG Telecom), Singtel and StarHub. Every mobile service provider operating in the country either owns one of these four networks or leases capacity from them. Alongside the four network operators, a growing number of Mobile Virtual Network Operators (MVNOs) offer competitively priced SIM-only plans by utilising the infrastructure of the main carriers.

According to Opensignal report data based on December 2025 figures, Singtel is rated the best overall mobile network in Singapore. That said, Opensignal notes that all Singapore telcos achieve high scores for coverage, meaning that regardless of which provider you choose, you can expect reliable access to mobile signal for calls, data and SMS across virtually the entire island. Singapore’s compact size means coverage black spots — a common frustration in many other countries — are extremely rare.

Beyond the four primary networks, several MVNOs operate in Singapore by utilising the infrastructure of the main operators. These virtual providers typically focus on particular customer segments — such as budget-conscious users or those requiring specific international services. Well-known MVNOs include Circles.Life, GOMO (a Singtel sub-brand), MyRepublic Mobile, Zero1 and redONE. For current plan details and pricing, check each provider’s website directly, as this is a highly competitive market and offers are updated frequently (as of 2026).

Singapore’s 2G/GSM network was fully decommissioned in April 2017, and the 3G/UMTS network was shut down in 2024. Before arriving, ensure your device supports 4G LTE or 5G — older handsets that rely solely on 3G will not work on Singapore’s networks.

How do I get a landline connected in Singapore?

The steps involved in establishing a new fixed-line connection vary depending on your chosen provider, the type of service (copper-based versus broadband-based voice), and whether you opt for a bundled package incorporating TV, broadband and mobile services. Most new residents find it most practical to apply for a combined package that includes broadband and a home phone, as all three major operators offer these bundles. For HDB flats and the majority of private residences, the national fibre infrastructure is already in place, which simplifies installation considerably.

To apply for a telephone line, you will need to present identification — such as a passport or residency card — alongside a completed application form from your chosen provider. Whether you own your home or are renting makes little practical difference to the application process, although tenants should first check with their landlord that installing or activating a new line is permitted.

1. Choose your provider and plan. Compare bundled packages from Singtel, StarHub, M1, or a smaller RSP such as MyRepublic. Visit each provider’s website or call their customer service line to compare current offers (see table above for contact details). Check your building’s fibre coverage using the provider’s online checker.
2. Prepare your documents. You will typically need your passport or Singapore National Registration Identity Card (NRIC), your Employment Pass, S Pass, or other valid residency documentation, and proof of your Singapore address (such as a tenancy agreement or utility bill).
3. Submit your application. A telephone line can be applied for at a provider’s customer service centres, or by calling Singtel on 1688, StarHub on 1633, or M1 on 1627. Online applications are also available through each provider’s website.
4. Schedule installation. An engineer visit will be arranged to connect or activate the line at your premises. Installation fees are charged by all providers. Confirm the current fee with your chosen provider at the time of application, as charges vary and may be waived on certain promotional plans.
5. Activate and test your service. Once installed, check that calls and (if bundled) broadband services are working correctly. Contact your provider’s customer service line if you experience any issues.

For the most current requirements, timelines and consumer guidance, consult your chosen provider directly or visit the IMDA website. The IMDA is Singapore’s national telecommunications regulator and operates a formal complaints channel should any difficulties arise.

How do I get a mobile phone SIM card or contract in Singapore?

Obtaining a SIM card in Singapore is a straightforward process. SIM cards are readily available for purchase throughout the country, including at dedicated telco shops and vending machines in the Arrival Halls of all terminals at Changi Airport. All major operators maintain their own retail outlets across the island, where staff can guide you through selecting a plan and activating your service. SIM cards are also stocked at convenience store chains such as 7-Eleven and Cheers.

Singapore law requires a valid photo ID to be presented when purchasing a SIM card. Visitors must produce their original passport — a photocopy is not accepted. This registration obligation mirrors requirements in place across many European countries, including Germany and France, where SIM card registration is a legal requirement. Residents may use their NRIC or a valid residency pass instead.

Under rules introduced on 15 July 2024, individuals who register a prepaid SIM using a passport (i.e. non-residents) will receive only 30 days of validity unless they subsequently provide evidence of lawful residency in Singapore within that window. This makes extended prepaid top-ups impractical for tourists. New arrivals waiting for their long-term pass to be issued should speak to their provider about transitioning to a resident SIM once their documentation is available.

For mobile phone services, customers can choose between prepaid and postpaid arrangements. Prepaid SIMs suit those who want immediate connectivity or who plan to stay in Singapore for only a short time. They can be bought at 7-Eleven outlets and other convenience stores across the island, or at carrier retail shops, and can be topped up via internet banking, ATM machines, or at numerous retail locations.

Postpaid plans are better suited to those who will be living in Singapore for an extended period. A wide variety of postpaid options exist to cater to different usage habits — whether you primarily make calls, send messages, or consume large amounts of mobile data. To sign up for a postpaid contract, you will generally need your passport, employment pass, and proof of a local address. Unlike some countries — such as the Netherlands or Switzerland — where opening a local bank account is often a prerequisite for obtaining a contract, Singapore operators normally require only identity and residency documentation.

A number of MVNOs in Singapore offer SIM cards and mobile contracts at prices that undercut the major operators. For instance, MyRepublic provides several SIM-only plans with no contract commitment and unlimited data. Because MyRepublic uses the StarHub 5G network and M1’s 4G network, coverage is strong across the island. No-contract MVNO plans are particularly popular among residents who want flexibility without being tied to a long-term agreement.

eSIMs are also available for purchase online through the websites of all major telcos in Singapore. Before buying an eSIM, confirm that your handset supports the technology, as not all devices are eSIM-compatible. As with physical SIM cards, purchasing an eSIM in Singapore requires you to provide your passport or another internationally recognised identity document, along with proof of address.

How do I pay my telephone bill in Singapore?

Both landline and postpaid mobile bills in Singapore are typically issued on a monthly cycle. Providers make a wide range of payment methods available, and the majority of customers now manage their accounts through digital channels such as provider apps or online portals.

The standard payment options offered by the major providers include:

• GIRO (direct debit): The most widely used bill payment method in Singapore. Functioning similarly to direct debit systems in other countries, GIRO automatically draws your monthly bill from your Singapore bank account. Once set up through your bank or the provider’s portal, payments occur without any further action on your part, effectively eliminating the risk of missed payments.
• Online banking: All of Singapore’s main retail banks — including DBS, OCBC, UOB and Standard Chartered — support bill payment through their internet banking platforms. Singtel, StarHub and M1 are pre-loaded as payees on most banking portals, making the process straightforward.
• Provider apps and websites: Each major telco offers a dedicated app and online account dashboard where you can view and download bills, make one-off card payments, and adjust your plan.
• PayNow / AXS Stations: Singapore’s PayNow instant payment system and the network of AXS self-service kiosks — found in MRT stations, shopping centres and post offices — can be used to settle telecommunications bills directly.
• In-person payment: Cash and card payments are accepted at each operator’s retail stores and, for some providers, at SingPost branches.
• Automatic top-up (prepaid): Prepaid customers can arrange automatic top-ups through their provider’s app, or top up manually at convenience stores, ATMs or online.

Late payment policies differ between providers. Most extend a grace period of approximately 14 days after the due date before levying a late charge, and sustained non-payment may result in service suspension. This broadly mirrors the approach taken in most other developed telecommunications markets, though the specific fees and timeframes vary — always review your provider’s terms and conditions. For guidance on billing disputes and consumer rights, the IMDA and the Competition and Consumer Commission of Singapore (CCCS) are the relevant regulatory bodies.

Are there any practical tips for using phones in Singapore as a newcomer?

Singapore’s telecommunications network extends across the entire city-state, with strong coverage accessible from virtually all inhabited areas of the island. The country is widely regarded as a global telecommunications hub, and in practical terms this means dropped calls and coverage dead zones are exceptionally rare — including in the neighbourhoods most popular with expatriates, such as the Central Business District, Orchard Road, Holland Village, Buona Vista, Novena, East Coast and Sentosa.

Number porting: Switching telcos is actively encouraged, and providers frequently offer attractive incentives to incoming customers who bring their existing number with them. The process is simple: fill in the sign-up form with your current number, and the receiving operator handles the transfer. Number porting within Singapore is generally completed within one to two working days, which is on par with other well-regulated markets. One limitation to note is that foreign numbers cannot be ported into Singapore’s national numbering system — you will need to acquire a new local number upon arrival.

eSIMs: All four major network operators and a growing number of MVNOs now offer eSIM support. Plans can be purchased and activated online through provider websites, making it possible for new arrivals to get connected before or immediately upon landing, without visiting a physical shop. eSIM-based tourist plans are widely available and particularly convenient for those who arrive before their long-term residency documentation has been processed.

International roaming: All major operators provide roaming add-ons for travel throughout the Asia-Pacific region and beyond, with Singtel being especially well regarded for its extensive roaming coverage. SIMBA’s “SuperRoam” offering is also noteworthy, with generous roaming allowances across more than 60 destinations bundled directly into its base plans. Roaming costs vary considerably between operators and plan tiers, so it is worth comparing options carefully before you travel.

Network technology: Singapore’s three established operators completed the shutdown of all 3G/UMTS services in 2024, so a 4G or 5G-capable device is essential. Furthermore, all operators have discontinued 5G NSA (non-standalone) infrastructure as of 31 December 2025, meaning 5G in Singapore now operates exclusively on SA (standalone) architecture. Most contemporary smartphones sold internationally are compatible, but if you are bringing an older handset, verify its band compatibility before depending on it.

Wi-Fi availability: With an internet penetration rate of 92%, Wi-Fi coverage across Singapore is extensive, with hotspots in museums, shopping malls, retail stores, cafés, and MRT stations. The government-supported Wireless@SG initiative provides free public Wi-Fi at thousands of locations around the island — a useful stopgap while you are arranging your SIM card.

Incoming call charges on prepaid: Unlike most European markets where receiving calls costs nothing, Singapore operates a system — similar to that used in the United States — where incoming calls may be charged to the recipient if not included in the plan. Always check whether your chosen prepaid plan covers incoming call charges before committing.

Unlocked handsets: If your phone is locked to your home network operator, it will not accept a Singapore SIM card. Ask your current carrier to unlock your handset before you leave your home country, so that you can use a local Singapore SIM without any compatibility issues.

Should you encounter problems with a telecoms provider — whether relating to billing, service quality or consumer rights — the IMDA is the appropriate body to approach. As the licensing authority for all telecommunications services in Singapore, the IMDA operates a formal complaints process and can be contacted through its official website.

Frequently asked questions about telephone services in Singapore

Can I keep my foreign number when I move to Singapore?

No — foreign telephone numbers cannot be ported into Singapore’s national numbering system. You will need to obtain a new local Singapore number. That said, you can keep your foreign SIM active in a dual-SIM phone or continue using communication apps such as WhatsApp and FaceTime with your overseas number, running both alongside a Singapore SIM.

Do I need a local address to get a SIM card in Singapore?

To register a SIM card in Singapore, you must present a valid photo ID — visitors are required to show their original passport (photocopies are not accepted). For postpaid contracts, proof of a local address is also typically required, along with your employment or residency pass. For basic prepaid SIMs, a passport alone is generally sufficient, though under regulations in effect since July 2024, non-residents registering with a passport will only receive 30 days of service validity unless they subsequently demonstrate lawful residency in Singapore.

Can tourists and new arrivals get a postpaid mobile contract?

Postpaid contracts are generally available to people holding a valid long-term pass, such as an Employment Pass, S Pass, Dependant’s Pass or Long-Term Visit Pass. Visitors on tourist or short-term visit passes are ordinarily limited to prepaid SIM cards. New arrivals whose long-term pass application is still being processed can use a prepaid SIM as an interim solution, then switch to a postpaid contract once their documentation is confirmed.

How long does it take to get a SIM card or landline connected in Singapore?

Prepaid SIM cards can be purchased and activated immediately — within minutes — at retail stores, convenience outlets, or at Changi Airport upon arrival. eSIMs are activated almost instantaneously online. Postpaid mobile contracts are typically activated on the same day or the following business day after the application is completed. Fixed-line connections require scheduling an engineer visit, which may take anywhere from a few days to a week depending on provider availability and whether any on-site infrastructure work is necessary.

What is the IMDA, and why does it matter to expats?

The Info-communications Media Development Authority (IMDA) is responsible for administering Singapore’s National Numbering Plan and, more broadly, for licensing all telecommunications operators, setting service quality standards, and providing a formal channel for consumer complaints. If a billing dispute or service issue cannot be resolved directly with your provider, the matter can be escalated to the IMDA through its official website at imda.gov.sg.

Is 5G available in Singapore, and do I need a special SIM?

Yes, 5G service is broadly available across Singapore. As of 31 December 2025, all operators have shut down their 5G NSA (non-standalone) networks, and 5G in Singapore now runs exclusively on SA (standalone) infrastructure. The majority of modern 5G smartphones will be compatible, though you should verify that your specific handset model supports the relevant frequency bands. No special SIM card is required — standard SIMs from Singtel, StarHub, M1 and SIMBA all support 5G on devices that are capable of using it.

Are there MVNOs in Singapore, and are they a good option for expats?

Yes, a number of MVNOs operate in Singapore, offering SIM cards and mobile plans at prices that are often lower than those of the major network operators. Popular choices include Circles.Life, GOMO, MyRepublic Mobile, Zero1, redONE and VIVIFI. SIM-only plans bundle data, voice minutes and SMS into a fixed monthly fee, and most MVNO plans carry no minimum contract period — meaning you can switch plans or providers at any time without incurring penalties. This flexibility makes MVNO plans especially appealing to expats on fixed-term assignments or those who prefer not to commit to a long-term agreement.

Can I buy an eSIM for Singapore before I arrive?

Yes — eSIM plans can be purchased and activated online through the websites of Singapore’s major telcos. Singtel, StarHub and M1 all offer eSIM options that can be set up remotely before or immediately upon arrival. Short-term data-focused eSIM plans for tourists are also widely available through third-party providers. Before purchasing, confirm that your device is eSIM-compatible, as not all handsets support the technology.