Advice UK - Singapore

[DagdaMor]

I am British, My wife is a Singaporean Citizen. We currently both live in the UK. 3 Years ago when we were not yet married, I was offered a Job in Singapore but my employment pass application was refused, and refused on appeal. We are now thinking about moving back to Singapore, however I am struggling to find a job without already being an SPR, I know it is possible to apply for SPR status just because we are married (just in case it is relevant we were married in singapore and hold a singaporean marriage certificate), however I have concerns about this process being rejected, since neither of us are currently working in Singapore. I also have concerns about being called up for NS (since I am still only 26), not that I mind doing NS since from anecdotal evidence from my Singaporean family, none singaporeans are not given combat roles for "security" reasons. But mainly because the pay is so low and would be two years of very difficult living. Does anyone have any experience of a situation like this and know what the chances of getting the SPR status are and what the NS situation would be.

[David91]

I don't know whether they've changed the rules but, long ago, you could apply for PR before coming over to Singapore. Check with the Immigration and Checkpoint Authority (http://www.ica.gov.sg) and see whether they continue to allow it.

And, as far as I know, only citizens get called up for NS.

[lost_canuck]

what sort of job are you looking for? why not apply for a EP?

Husband says there is a talent agent he can put you in touch with, but needs to know your qualifications. pm me

[DagdaMor]

Well since I have been refused an EP before, I am just worried it will be refused again.

It won't let me send a PM yet, don't have enough posts.

I am an IT Consultant, specialising in IBM software, particularly the WebSphere Brand, currently working as a WebSphere Guru, for a county council over here in Britain.

I am also a qualified teacher my degree is in Chemistry, and was wondering if applying for a teaching position with the MOE would be more beneficial maybe. And whether I would need to do a DipEd in Singapore.

I still think I would prefer PR status over just getting an EP, if I could get details about how to apply without living or working in SG. And also what the state is with NS.

[lost_canuck]

most of those questions I am not sure if I can help you, but I can tell you Singapore is in a different mind set than it was 3 years ago, and i fyou got an EP which sounds like you shouldn't have a problem, you could always upgrade it later..

Then again I don't know the ins and outs but someone else here might be better able to help. sorry

[ksl]

Well since I have been refused an EP before, I am just worried it will be refused again.

It won't let me send a PM yet, don't have enough posts.

I am an IT Consultant, specialising in IBM software, particularly the WebSphere Brand, currently working as a WebSphere Guru, for a county council over here in Britain.

I am also a qualified teacher my degree is in Chemistry, and was wondering if applying for a teaching position with the MOE would be more beneficial maybe. And whether I would need to do a DipEd in Singapore.

I still think I would prefer PR status over just getting an EP, if I could get details about how to apply without living or working in SG. And also what the state is with NS.

I am also a qualified teacher my degree is in Chemistry, and was wondering if applying for a teaching position with the MOE would be more beneficial maybe. And whether I would need to do a DipEd in Singapore.

If you have been refused, I would think it was because they have no requirement for your skills, however I believe their is a demand for English teachers, and it is quite easy getting work.

But, the problem is, that your teaching skills need upgrading, you can do this in Singapore or UK. The british Council run a part time 10 week course for teaching English to foreigners.

The cost is on the website, but it is under 5000$, I've been considering doing it myself, but just missed the first intake. It's with the Cambridge University.

Does your wife have a job lined up? I think there is a minimum income requirement for your wife, before they allow you to seek PR, although I am not sure. It's best to contact MOE direct.

They are pretty good really! You should just come over first its much easier to get sorted out, authorities are concerned only with how you are going to support yourself. SMS will probably reply to your post, he is more upto date with what's going on in these circumstance I think.

[David91]

PR

My own experience could not have been more straightforward. I sat at my computer in England and filled out the application forms. I put together a portfolio of my qualifications and work experience, sent it all off and, six weeks later, I was granted PR. You should check with the Immigration and Checkpoint Authority (http://www.ica.gov.sg) to see whether they continue to allow it. And, for the record, my wife is a Singapore citizen and she did not hold a full-time job here at the time.

As to teaching over here (assuming you can get PR):

You will find it very difficult to get an MOE post and, even if you did, the culture shock would be likely to create difficulties on both sides. As a newcomer, you will find the work environment here a challenge until you learn more about the culture.

There are lots of opportunities to teach English. I suppose a formal TEFL qualification would be nice, but you can easily find work here with a UK teaching qualification. If all else fails, you can hire yourself out as a private tutor — demand for science tuition is strong. This gives you the opportunity to learn Singlish and time to adjust to the local culture.

If you can't get PR, watch out because locals will see an opportunity to get your expertise for less than the going rate just so you can get an EP.

[skye]

Did you get any teaching experience before moving over to IT work? If so, you could try the International Schools here to teach science and start out on an EP. Some schools ask for at least 2 years teaching experience, others may not. If you are employed from overseas, it also has the advantage that the school would help finance the move and some housing allowance.
Not sure of all the rules and regs when married to a Singapore citizen, but that might allow you to get PR on your own merits, rather than through your wife.

[Deefa]

Dagdamore,

I have applied for my PR from the UK also,

(Similar Situation to yourself, married to an SG nearly 4 years ago now, only difference, we married in London)

You can submit the PR direct through the Singa High Comission (Wilton Crescent, London - Just aove Belgrave Square) and they are very nice and helpfull people too!!

However we just used them to verify and ensure that we had all teh correct documentation and the forms filled in correctly, got a few Singa High Comission rubbers tamps and some verification of things like my tax slips. As we were going to be in singa anyway (to see the outlaws) we submitted in person to MoM, but only because we were advised that it would take a month longer than via High Comission.

Process is as follows.

submit PR - 3 months
Gain interview and approval have to turn up in person, within (2 months, i believe - could be muddling up here though) then you have 5 years to find a job

I have noticed that most recruiters dont want to know unless you have the paperwork already, unless you are in a very specialised / skilled area.

Fortunately i have secured employment via personal contacts.

Where in the UK are you? If in London, will happily meet up for a beer and pass on any info that i gathered! Just drop me a mail from profile!