I got my EPEC earlier in the 2010 and will be heading to Singapore in January end on a tourist visa later to be converted to be LTSVP since I have an EPEC.
Banking:
I was hoping to be able to open a bank account before or immediately after arriving in Singapore, and transfer my savings from US. I have searched everywhere (Google, IV search and local bank websites) and it seems like I can't open a bank account here unless I have a job and work permit. If that's the case, how do people who arrive on EPEC finance their stay? Do they just bring boat load of cash to get them through the first month or two it will take to get a job?
Mobiles:
Same thing for mobile phones. Apparently, I need a foreign resident ID issued by Singapore government. From my research, it is given to people on work permits. So, is it true that I can't get a Singapore cell connection as an EPEC holder on LTSVP?
While I have searched through the forums, the information I have found was related to people who had already secured jobs and had work permits. Therefore, it would be great if someone with appropriate knowledge could provide some guidance.