Relocation advice needed

[ilovemexmany]

Hi - I am moving to SG on Dec 8 for a new position effective Dec 14. And I have a lot of questions that my employer does not seem to be provided an accurate answer.

1. Based on my discussions with my employer, I will need to obtain a medical exam before I can obtain my EP work pass. I have also heard that not much can be done without the work pass, like opening a bank account, getting a cellphone and renting apartments. Is this true?

2. In addition, does anyone know have any recommendations for reasonable temporary accomodation? Currently, I looking at both hotels and Serviced Apartments, but neither seem to be able to fit my relatively tight budget.

3. Also, I have been informed by my employer that my EP has been approved. Does my employer need to provide me with something regarding the EP approval from the MOM so I can freely exit my country and travel from SG (in lieu of a work visa stamp on my passport)? My issue is that Cathay Pacific will not issue a one-way ticket to SG if I cannot show proof of stay in SG. Please advise.

[durain]

Hi - I am moving to SG on Dec 8 for a new position effective Dec 14. And I have a lot of questions that my employer does not seem to be provided an accurate answer.

1. Based on my discussions with my employer, I will need to obtain a medical exam before I can obtain my EP work pass.
yes, you will need a medical exam.

I have also heard that not much can be done without the work pass, like opening a bank account, getting a cellphone and renting apartments. Is this true?
not true.

2. In addition, does anyone know have any recommendations for reasonable temporary accomodation? Currently, I looking at both hotels and Serviced Apartments, but neither seem to be able to fit my relatively tight budget.
cheapo hotels probably your best bet.

[Strong Eagle]

Hi - I am moving to SG on Dec 8 for a new position effective Dec 14. And I have a lot of questions that my employer does not seem to be provided an accurate answer.

1. Based on my discussions with my employer, I will need to obtain a medical exam before I can obtain my EP work pass.

It will depend where you are from. The approval in principle letter (which your employer should send you a copy, either by email or regular mail) will tell you if you need a medical exam or just need to fill out a form.

I have also heard that not much can be done without the work pass, like opening a bank account, getting a cellphone and renting apartments. Is this true?

Generally true, although with an AIP and a passport you can probably open a bank account. Most landlords want to see the EP. However, it only takes a few days to get the EP.

2. In addition, does anyone know have any recommendations for reasonable temporary accomodation? Currently, I looking at both hotels and Serviced Apartments, but neither seem to be able to fit my relatively tight budget.

You could look at a back packer hotel for relatively cheap.

3. Also, I have been informed by my employer that my EP has been approved. Does my employer need to provide me with something regarding the EP approval from the MOM so I can freely exit my country and travel from SG (in lieu of a work visa stamp on my passport)? My issue is that Cathay Pacific will not issue a one-way ticket to SG if I cannot show proof of stay in SG. Please advise.

See above - you should get a copy of the approval in principle letter.