Singapore, known worldwide for its high educational standards, is home to an extensive range of international schools that cater specifically to the needs of the expat community. This vibrant city-state boasts a multicultural environment, making it a compelling destination for families looking to offer their children a globally-oriented education. In this guide, we aim to … Read more

Singapore, known for its ultra-modern urban planning and cleanliness, is also renowned for having one of the world’s most efficient and reliable public transportation systems. For expats, the comprehensive network of transport services across the island-nation eases their daily commute and makes exploring the city an enjoyable experience. The Land Transport Authority of Singapore (LTA) … Read more

Singapore has a two-tier healthcare system consisting of a compulsory national health insurance scheme and private provision. Your entitlement to state healthcare depends on your residency status. If you are a citizen or a permanent resident, you will be covered by the state: this includes expats. If you are not a permanent resident, you will … Read more

The banking industry is a key player in Singapore’s financial market segment, which has been emerging as one of the strongest in the world. The city-state is considered an international finance centre – the third largest in the whole of Asia, after Japan and Hong Kong. There are roughly 117 foreign banks and six local … Read more

There are a number of ways to measure the quality of healthcare, and different people place emphasis on different elements. For example, some might consider good bedside manner a particularly important factor, while others may be more concerned with the knowledge and qualifications of medical personnel.Generally speaking, regulatory authorities tend to focus on several key … Read more

The healthcare system in Singapore is one of the best in the world, currently ranking in sixth place globally, according to the World Health Organisation (WHO). It was also voted as ‘the most efficient healthcare system in the world’ by Bloomberg in 2015. The healthcare system in Singapore is supervised by the Ministry of Health. … Read more

It’s relatively easy to keep your health insurance costs low in Singapore, mostly due to the government’s medical subsidies. Every working citizen and permanent resident is automatically enrolled in a mandatory savings system. Through this, funds are deposited directly from employees’ pay cheques into savings accounts, which are specifically reserved for paying medical expenses. Supplemental … Read more

It is difficult to define what makes healthcare high quality, as people place varying levels of emphasis on a range of different factors. For example, some would consider good bedside manner a key determinant, whereas others may put more weight on the knowledge or qualifications of healthcare staff. Regulatory authorities tend to measure the quality … Read more

In 2019, Singapore was ranked as having the sixth best healthcare system in the world. One of the many reasons for it being so popular with expatriates is its accessibility. High-quality health care with English-speaking specialists is quickly and easily accessible throughout the country. Singaporean citizens have the world’s fifth longest life expectancy (84 years … Read more

It’s relatively easy to keep your health insurance costs down in a country like Singapore, mostly because of the government’s medical subsidies. Every working citizen and permanent resident is automatically enrolled into a mandatory savings system, through which funds are deposited directly from pay cheques into savings accounts, which are specifically reserved for the purpose … Read more

Singapore is home to one of the most secure economies in the world, and its workforce includes high numbers of expats, making it a popular choice for foreign citizens looking to work abroad. Singaporean employers are often keen to acquire skilled workers from other countries and salaries can therefore be extremely competitive. Unemployment is low … Read more

Being pregnant when you’re away from home is not always smooth sailing. It’s an emotional time of your life where your hormones are running riot and making you cry, and the mere sight of a rubber duck or a small pair of baby socks can cause a meltdown. It can also be a time filled … Read more

Singapore is not necessarily known for being a big LGBT+ destination in Asia, especially compared to Thailand and Taiwan. However, the small city-state does have its own unique aspects to offer new expats.Knowing about the scene in advance will help tremendously, as there is unfortunately not much LGBT+ life out in the open in Singapore, … Read more

The current property climate in Singapore is a hot topic of discussion among expats and local people alike. Until recently, there were few incentives or initiatives to help those looking to secure a rental lease. A security deposit for renting in Singapore is usually equivalent to (if not more than) two months rent. That is … Read more

If you’re moving to Singapore with a young family in tow, one of the most important, and probably the most difficult, decisions you will need to make is with regard to the education of your children.As any parent knows, choosing the right school for your child can be a stressful process even without the addition … Read more

The stunning sovereign city-state of Singapore has, for the fourth year running, been voted the number one place to live, according to the HSBC Expat Explorer survey, beating New Zealand, Germany and Canada. Singapore has been actively attracting migrants with skills that can be used to help the country bloom. Some 36 percent of these … Read more

It may be clichéd to say that Singapore is where east meets west, but the cliché has been true for centuries. The Lion City was a strategic trading post when sailing ships raced to bring silks, teas and spices back to Europe. In recent years, the city-state became an economic titan, with billions of dollars … Read more

One of the main challenges for many expat families is finding the best education for their children. What are the best options academically? And is that option affordable?In previous articles we’ve focused on providing extensive lists of options across the city of Singapore. In this feature, we focus on the Early Learning Village, an establishment … Read more

What makes a home a home? If you’re moving to a new country, even temporarily, you will want to be able to make your home a haven; an oasis of calm to return to. With people’s personal tastes varying so vastly, there is a good chance that one person’s idea of chic decor is your … Read more

Many people these days are so busy juggling work, social commitments and family life that keeping a home spick and span or having time to do the grocery shopping isn’t always possible. If you’re an expat in Singapore contemplating hiring some home help, then this is the guide for you! This article outlines the various … Read more

As a parent, you naturally want what is best for your child. However, it can be hard to choose the best childcare option. Not everyone can or wants to leave their job to stay at home, or has the option to reduce their work hours. If you are considering childcare options as a working parent … Read more

One of the first questions on the lips of every expat when considering moving to a new country is “how much will I earn?” shortly followed by “how far will that get me?” Of course naturally, these are some of our primary concerns, especially if we have dependants to look after as well as ourselves. … Read more

Perhaps you’re not looking to settle in Singapore for an extended amount of time, or you’re looking for an interim place while you purchase property or shop around for your more permanent home. Whatever the reason, you’re looking for a short term rental in Singapore, and you’re not quite sure where to start. We’ve compiled … Read more

One of the greatest challenges of being a parent during the school holidays and weekends is looking for and arranging fun filled days and activities for you and your family. We’ve compiled this handy expat guide to activities for children in Singapore to make this task easier for you in your new home.From theme parks … Read more

Multicultural Singapore has a wealth of international social clubs that cater to a variety of tastes.Social clubs are a fantastic way to socialise and network, provide entertainment for the family and maintain your health and fitness and overall general wellbeing. Choosing from the myriad of options can be a little overwhelming at times, so we … Read more

Singapore is blessed with an abundance of brilliant locations and venues when it comes to the nightlife scene. There’s something for everyone be it dance clubs, micro breweries, quirky hipster haunts, champagne bars, live music, lavish rooftop bars, trendy cocktail places, old favourite watering holes or interesting date night venues.Check out our expat guide to … Read more

Singapore is one of the best destinations in the world to set up your own business. Adventurous businesspeople who are ready to take a few risks will benefit greatly from striking out on their own. One thing to remember, however, is that it’s not so much about starting out as it is about growing the … Read more

At Expat Focus, we like to be on the lookout for resources around the web that could help prospective expats adjust to their new countries. Today, we’re taking a look at Singapore and some of the social media accounts you should be following if you’re thinking of moving there.Singapore Expat WivesFacebook Page | Facebook Group … Read more

A report from HSBC questioned 27,000 people in 45 countries about the things they like, including salaries and experience as well as property, quality of life, and childcare. With such a variety of opinions, Singapore dominated the survey’s results, with New Zealand and Canada not far behind.Singapore is considered by many people to be among … Read more

Moving to a new and unfamiliar place can be overwhelming at the best of times, in particular when it is a large city. We’ve put together this guide to the neighbourhoods of Singapore to help you better understand what each has to offer. Singapore is divided into 28 districts which is based on the old … Read more

Expats moving to Singapore will find that the island city-state is more than just the upscale shopping malls, luxury hotels and fancy restaurants. Singapore also has a rich history and a diverse population, a plethora of family-friendly attractions and beautiful public spaces.The city is perched on the southern tip of the Malaysian peninsula and is … Read more

The property market can be overwhelming and confusing at the best of times, so we’ve put together this guide to explain everything you need to know about property in Singapore. Property options Rental For foreigners looking to rent in Singapore it is usually best to choose a reputable agent who can use their knowledge of … Read more

Singapore is known to be one of the most family-friendly destinations in Asia. There are a lot of options for the whole family, which is why it is a popular vacation spot in addition to being a major expat location. The city-state has numerous gardens, theme parks, museums, zoos, guided tours, safaris and indoor playgrounds … Read more

There seems to be a lot to figure out and put into place when moving your family abroad, so here is a guide for all the key components you will need to organise in order to make the process as smooth as possible.Visas Work visa: Firstly, either yourself or your spouse will require an “Employment … Read more

Life in a foreign country can be particularly difficult for solo expat women, with safety being a primary concern. Fortunately for women in Singapore however, this isn’t a huge challenge. In terms of crime and safety, this Asian city-state has one of the best reputations in the world. In fact, the Garden City stands in … Read more

A glittering jewel of a city, Singapore is a port, a business superpower, a wonder of architecture and arguably the best place to live in Asia. The Lion City is also a country in its own right, famed for excellent healthcare, clean streets and being the safest city in the world. However, it’s also got … Read more

Hong Kong was king, but Singapore is usurping its crown. A hectic, eclectic mix of Chinese and British colonial culture, Hong Kong became an economic powerhouse, a meeting place for Eastern industry and western finance. The skyscrapers that loom over the harbour stand testament to Hong Kong’s hard-won spot at the high table of global … Read more

Singapore is one of those places that doesn’t quite have a winter. In fact, plenty of people would say that Singapore doesn’t really have seasons at all – lying only one degree north of the equator, it’s warm and rainy all through the year. At this time of year, which is what usually counts as … Read more

Alka, tell us a bit about yourself and how you came to be an expat. I was born and brought up in Hong Kong, moving to Singapore was initially a daunting thought in 2003. Moving with young children from your hometown to the unknown is always challenging. My husband was given an opportunity to work … Read more

Sasha, you're Managing Director at The Barbie Girls. Tell us a bit about your role – what does your day-to-day routine look like? Every day is different for me. I always start early, whether from home, my office or with an 8am meeting to kick start the day and to enable me to savour a … Read more

Singapore Salvation is the second book in a series by Jennifer Burge, describing her experience of life as an expat in various countries. Having moved away from the Netherlands where she met her partner, in Singapore Salvation Burge arrives in Asia and sets about beginning a new life in Singapore.With no secure position and no … Read more

Singapore is a thriving expat destination, and as such has many reputed international schools in different locations, offering a variety of curricula. The public school system in Singapore also provides high quality education, but expat parents often choose international schools over public schools, so that their children can follow an international curriculum.This helps to make … Read more

Since the year 1973, the Singaporean Government has restricted the ownership of residential property in the country by foreigners. Ownership of houses is governed by the Residential Property Act. This Act is mainly aimed at giving the locals a stake in their country by being able to buy and possess their own houses. At the … Read more

Singapore is ranked as the second-best expat destination in the world, with Switzerland being the best. This is not surprising, as Singapore provides expats with financial stability, high chances for career progression, and an excellent quality of life. Life in Singapore is sure to be an fun, rewarding adventure, but in order to help you … Read more

Singapore is the second most popular destination (after Switzerland) for expats, according to a survey conducted by HSBC. This is largely due to the concerted efforts of the Singaporean government to attract expats. The country’s infrastructure is considered to be among the best in the world. The well maintained roads, impressive internet speed, transparent (if … Read more

Southeast Asians – and Singaporeans in particular – take their food very seriously, and any business that caters to the taste buds probably has a higher chance of success in the region as compared to most others! Someone’s always looking for a good place to eat, and cheap roadside joints and hawkers never go out … Read more

Singapore is a modernized and highly developed nation. Expats will find that Singapore’s healthcare system is among the best performing systems in the world. There are private and public health services available and both are known to provide high quality treatments. However due to the country’s dense population, communicable health conditions get passed around quite … Read more

Singapore has an excellent public transport system, high-quality healthcare services, and a modern, multicultural society that enjoys a high standard of life. It’s no wonder that so many expats move to Singapore every year. This city-state’s economy is also stable on account of significant government measures and many big businesses are headquartered here. Expats often … Read more

With its diversity in culture, language, food, art and architecture, Singapore can be regarded as one of the most fun and exciting places to live in. This dynamic country has so many fresh experiences to offer, it is hardly any surprise that thousands of expats are choosing to move to Singapore each year. There are … Read more

Singapore is now the world’s most expensive city, according to the new rankings of the Economic Intelligence Unit (EIU). Singapore which ranked sixth in the same survey last year has now overtaken Tokyo (which topped the list last year), Osaka, Sydney and Melbourne, which all occupied top positions that year. The EIU surveyed 140 cities … Read more

Expats are usually faced with the daunting task of adjusting to a foreign country with different laws and varied cultural traditions. It does take a while to adapt to an unfamiliar environment, and here is where expats clubs and associations play an important role. They serve as a support network and provide a place for … Read more

We’ve recently spent some time travelling around the internet to find some of the best expat blogs in each country. This week, we’ve been focusing on Singapore – here are five of our favourites. Curly Traveller http://curlytraveller.com Anja is a Dutch blogger who lives in Singapore and does a lot of travelling around Asia. Curly … Read more

Having been an expat now for three-and-a-half years, I keep asking myself when I will stop converting things back into British pounds. The realistic answer is probably never. The exchange rate for sterling in some countries makes it very easy to make a quick conversion – for example in Singapore, one pound equals two dollars. … Read more

For expats with families, education is a top concern. Singapore has one of the top-rated education systems in the world, integrating the most successful aspects of other country’s systems in conjunction with its growing and redeveloping infrastructure. With the choice between international schools and local schools, many parents may be confused as to where to … Read more

In consideration of Singapore’s westernized and cosmopolitan way of life, most expats find acclimating to the new environment a smooth process. However, moving to any distant location poses some possibility for culture shock and, invariably, the adjustments that must be made to overcome it. Instinctively, many individuals will extend a plea for help to their … Read more

Sometimes referred to as “Asia lite”, it is no surprise that many expats report little to no culture shock when relocating to Singapore. The modern infrastructure and cultural blend of natives and foreigners creates a unique culture and easy adjustment process to the way of life in this expat hotspot. So, What is Culture Shock? … Read more

Singapore has recently been ranked fourth behind the United States, United Kingdom and Australia in the Hydrogen’s Global Professionals on the Move 2013 report. Housing approximately nine percent of the world’s expats, Singapore draws workers primarily because of its highly regarded technology and finance industries. As an innovative and well-educated country, expats witness vast improvements … Read more

For those who desire to fit into a new country, nothing can quickly undo their best efforts and betray their foreign origin quite like the weather. One could master the local language and customs of, say, Thailand or Japan, and still end up being the only one in a busy public area (e.g. a crowded … Read more

A number of expats choose to live in Singapore, especially compared to other areas of South East Asia, because of the easy transition to the new way of life, the good safety levels and high standard of education and employment. Expats claim that Singapore is something of a home from home for them. It offers … Read more

Singapore has the 6th best health care system in the world, according to the World Health Organization (WHO) back in the year 2000. It came behind the likes of France and Italy but was ranked number one in the Asia-Pacific region. Singapore is well-known for having performed world class, successful and complicated surgical procedures and … Read more

For professional expatriates, there are generally two key factors that influence the decision to relocate to a new country: the perception of how easy it is to do business there, and the overall quality of life (a factor that itself takes into account ease of socialization, ease of mobility and the peace of mind that … Read more

For Westerners, the intricacies of criminal justice in Southeast Asia can seem either baffling in their contradictions, or needlessly severe. As to the former, many will have difficulty understanding why a country like Thailand, notorious for the Bangkok ‘sex tourism’ industry, enforces a blanket ban on pornography. As to the latter, Singapore has become famous … Read more

The economy in Singapore has been based around its healthy status as a world trade hub since at least 1869, and its per capita income was one of the highest in Asia even before its 1965 declaration of independence from the British Empire. It is now classified as one of the four “Asian Tiger” economies … Read more

With the city-state of Singapore being one of the most successful financial centers in the world, it should almost go without saying that there is a vibrant social and cultural life within its confines, and that it is by no means off limits to expatriates. Being one of the most heavily trafficked seaports in Asia … Read more

According to the Singapore Workforce 2012 report compiled by the Ministry of Manpower (MOM), the employment rate in the island city hit a new high in 2012, driven by strong job vacancy growth and a greater number of women and older workers in the workforce. The average unemployment rate has been around 2 percent for … Read more

Singapore is divided into 28 districts and the Central Business District is located within the central south area. While Singapore is a relatively small city, which means moving from one end to another probably takes a maximum of 2 hours, your lifestyle choices could determine which area you would prefer to live in. Putting budget … Read more

by Alexandra Sheehan Life as an expat is full of new experiences. Meeting new people, exploring a new place, tasting new cuisines. You exist in a state of constant euphoria and wanderlust as you float amongst the new foreign fairyland. There is a dark side, the logistical side to planning a big move overseas. Your … Read more

When moving to Singapore, it’s always helpful have an idea of the salary benchmark for your industry, job function and years of experience so that you know your worth in the labour market. This information can provide you with a good idea of what to look out for during a job search, when making career … Read more

Singapore, the little red dot, has definitely risen up the international ranks in many ways—amongst its accolades includes being one of the world’s most liveable cities, Asia’s most ‘network-ready’ and number one for ease of doing business. It’s also no wonder that the 710 km² island is one of the most expensive cities in the … Read more

Singapore reports an average 2 percent unemployment rate and enjoys a vibrant job market despite some economic headwinds blowing in from some of the largest global economies in the world. With the nation being ranked number 1 as the best place to do business and the top Asian country for its quality of life (Worldwide … Read more

Child care is a significant concern for many parents, especially in families where both parents work. You can find a variety of childcare options and facilities in Singapore, and while citizens are eligible for a certain amount of subsidisation in health care as well as child care, foreigners and expats usually need to pay full … Read more

Giving birth in a foreign country can be a stressful and difficult affair, especially if you do not have the support system of family and friends. However, the fact that Singapore is home to excellent hospitals that offer world class medical care makes it easier for expats from all over the world to have a … Read more

by Alexandra Sheehan When I was living in Singapore, I got really sick of spending money. It felt as though I was constantly opening my wallet and watching those pastel coloured bills fly away at a surprisingly rapid rate. I kissed those hard earned dollars good-bye far too often for my liking. As time went … Read more

Relocating to a new country means having to adapt to a completely new environment, and all of us react in a certain way to change. But while we often think about the repercussions of moving on us and our family, we often forget the effect that it can have on our pets! For pet owners … Read more

Singapore has always been a popular tourist destination, but in recent times, it has also become one of the most important business and commercial hubs in Asia. As such, Singapore has a growing population of foreign workers. Settling down in a new country means having to adapt and learn the local ways at least to … Read more

Singapore has always been a coveted holiday destination among visitors from across the world. Today, Singapore is much more than just about shopping and vacations. As its significance as a commercial and business destination grows, Singapore is becoming home to a growing number of expats from all over the world. Permanent residents enjoy a number … Read more

by Alexandra Sheehan The expat community in Singapore is a huge, dynamic group of individuals. You will have no problem whatsoever finding a group of non-locals to relate to and hang out with. However, because of its unique cultural makeup, Singapore has a very different social scene than what you may be used to, one … Read more

by Alexandra Sheehan So you’re moving to Singapore, a mysterious little treasure found at the foot of Malaysia in between the Indian and Pacific Oceans. This tiny country isn’t really famous for much, and it is not often that we hear about it in the news. It is extremely unique, a mixture of Asian, European … Read more

Healthcare standards in Singapore are high and all practising medical professionals are required by law to be registered with the government. Expatriates may find some differences in Singapore’s approach to medical treatment as compared to their home countries, but access to healthcare for anyone is generally good in Singapore. As a working expatriate, bear in … Read more

In this age of globalization, the dissolving of barriers which previously impeded travel among countries has led to unprecedented movement of people across borders, seeking a better life for themselves or their families. Many citizens are plagued by inadequate healthcare programmes and experience difficulty in getting specialized treatment for their healthcare needs at a reasonable … Read more