Singapore is a popular destination for people looking to move abroad to a new country. With its stable economy, high standard of living and excellent healthcare system, it’s no surprise that many Indians are considering relocating to Singapore. If you’re interested in making the move, this guide will provide you with everything you need to know about migrating to Singapore from India.
Visas and Immigration
The first step in migrating to Singapore is obtaining the appropriate visa. There are several types of visas available, depending on your situation. The most common visas include:
- Employment Pass (EP) – This visa is for foreign professionals, managers, executives and technicians who are employed by a Singaporean company. To be eligible for an EP, you must have a job offer from a Singapore-based company and meet certain criteria such as salary requirements and educational qualifications.
- Entrepreneur Pass (EntrePass) – This visa is for entrepreneurs who want to start a business in Singapore. To be eligible for an EntrePass, you must have a viable business plan and meet certain criteria such as funding requirements and entrepreneurial experience.
- Personalised Employment Pass (PEP) – This visa is for high-earning individuals who want to work in Singapore without being tied to a specific employer. To be eligible for a PEP, you must have a minimum salary of SGD 18,000 per month and meet certain criteria such as educational qualifications and professional experience.
- Dependent Pass (DP) – This visa is for family members of EP or S pass holders who want to live in Singapore. To be eligible for a DP, you must be the spouse or unmarried child under 21 years old of an EP or S pass holder.
- Long-Term Visit Pass (LTVP) – This visa is for family members of Singapore citizens or permanent residents who want to live in Singapore for an extended period of time. To be eligible for a LTVP, you must be the spouse, unmarried child under 21 years old or parent of a Singapore citizen or permanent resident.
It is important to note that the visa application process can be complex and time-consuming, so it is recommended that you seek the assistance of a professional immigration consultant to help guide you through the process.
Housing
Once you have obtained your visa, the next step is to find housing in Singapore. There are several options available, including public housing, private apartments, and landed properties. Public housing, also known as Housing Development Board (HDB) flats, are subsidized by the government and provide affordable housing for Singaporeans and permanent residents. Private apartments and landed properties are more expensive but offer more space and amenities.
It is important to research the different neighborhoods in Singapore to find one that suits your needs and budget. Some popular neighborhoods among expats include Orchard Road, Holland Village, and Marina Bay.
Education
If you have children, education will be a top priority when migrating to Singapore. Singapore has a world-class education system, with both local and international schools available. Local schools follow the Singaporean curriculum and are known for their rigorous academic standards. International schools offer a more diverse curriculum and cater to expat students.
It is important to research schools in advance and apply early, as spaces at popular schools fill up quickly. It is also worth noting that tuition fees for international schools can be high, so it is recommended that you factor this into your budget when planning your move.
Healthcare
Singapore has an excellent healthcare system, with both public and private hospitals available. Public hospitals are subsidized by the government and provide affordable healthcare for Singaporeans and permanent residents. Private hospitals are more expensive but offer shorter wait times and higher levels of comfort and service.
It is mandatory for all foreigners living in Singapore to have health insurance. You can either purchase an international health insurance policy or enroll in a local healthcare plan.
Culture and Lifestyle
Singapore is a multicultural society with a diverse population. It is known for its food, shopping and entertainment options. Some popular activities among expats include visiting the many parks and nature reserves, exploring the vibrant nightlife scene, and taking part in cultural festivals such as Chinese New Year and Deepavali.
It is important to familiarize yourself with Singaporean culture and customs, particularly when it comes to social etiquette and business practices. Singaporeans are generally polite and reserved, and it is considered impolite to raise your voice or display anger in public.
Conclusion
Migrating to Singapore from India can be a rewarding experience, but it requires careful planning and preparation. By obtaining the appropriate visa, finding suitable housing, researching schools and healthcare options, and familiarizing yourself with Singaporean culture, you can make a smooth transition to your new home in this vibrant and dynamic city-state.
