Relocation to Singapore from the UK

[DHL1964]

My company is investigating the possibility of setting up an office in Singapore and has asked me to consider managing the office. It will be a sales office selling into the Asian market and I would initially look to employ two local Singaporeans in sales roles.

I have lived in Singapore before for 6 months but this was for leisure and I did not work. I also have visited Singapore on a number of occassions so I have no worries about moving there from a cultural point of view. In fact I am excited at the possibility.

My concerns are more about the logistics and bureaucracy that I will need to follow in order to make this happen. I also want to get a grasp of all of the costs involved so that I can make an informed decision.

I will be moving with my wife and baby and it is likely to happen early next year.

1. Could anyone give me advice on the VISA requirements for me and my family and the costs of these? Also any likely issues I may have?

2. Could anyone advise me on likely rental costs and good areas to live with a family? Any advice on costs of bills would also be helpful.

3. I understand that there is a flat Tax rate for income, based on your total income for the year. My income is likely to be arround S$100k per annum. Can anyone advise on what Tax rate would be payable on this?

4. Can anyone advise on the cost of private medical cover for a family?

5. I understand that schools have a charge for attending pupils in Singapore. Can anyone advise on the cost of school fees in Singapore and which schools would be the best? It will be a couple of years before my son will need this but I would like to be aware of costs.


I am sure I will have other questions but I think I have covered the basics here. If anyone has any other things I would need to consider all advice would be greatly appreciated.

Thanks in advance to all those taking the time to respond.

[AndyD]

There is a lot of info being requested here, there are definitely experts on this site that can advise on every point – but you may have to break it down slightly, or do some basic searches yourself and come back to get the “gaps filled”

[dearlittleangels]

East Coast and Pasir Ris are definitely good places for family. It's a pity that there is no MRT station at East Coast area.

In terms of where to live, you need to ask yourself these questions:

1) Is it crucial to live near MRT stations and International Schools?
2) How far are you willing to travel from your company?
3) Budget
4) Amenities and facilities nearby

Once you have answers to those, it will be easier to do your house hunting.