Moving to Singapore? 7 Tips for Expat Living in the Lion City

If you're moving to Singapore to live and work, either on a short or long-term basis - you're in good company. The Ministry of Manpower states there are more than 110,000 expatriates on the island state, working with over 7,000 multinational companies.

But beginning a new life in the Garden City can inspire many questions - not least because there's nowhere else quite like it.

Where will you live? If you're arriving with children, where will they go to school? How will you ensure your family gets the medical and dental treatment it needs?

You'll need to sort out home furnishings, bank accounts, taxes, setting up the Internet, and last but not least, where to have fun and meet new people!

As the third most densely-populated nation on Earth, Singapore is the shining light of urban planning. How can six million live on just 710 square kilometres?

Singapore's answer: build high and build smart. As such, there's an excellent choice of accommodation in Singapore - from HBDs to plush condominiums and heritage properties.

As a foreigner, access to HBD (public housing) flats is limited by the Non-Citizen Quota. Thankfully, there are also a vast array of private rooms and apartments available, with rental prices informed by location, size, and amenities, among other factors.

Hmlet.com, for instance, presents a choice of condominium and co-living options, with flexible, short-term contracts. Such a service can prove invaluable to newly-arrived expats, who are still finding their feet in the Lion City. For a limited time, enjoy SGD $100 off rental rebate when you indicate Allianz in your form submission.

What are the benefits of co-living in Singapore?

'Co-living' in Singapore is comparable to a 'house share' or 'share house' in the UK, US and Australia. Residents have their own bedroom, but share the kitchen, living room and bathroom. However, Singapore co-living accommodation is often of a higher specification.

The chief benefit of co-living is that you get to share communal areas with people of a similar age and background, which can really help when you're new to the city. Given Singapore's fast-paced, work-centric lifestyle, meeting new people is not always easy - but co-living can super-charge your social life!

"The first wealth is health," as Ralph Waldo Emerson wrote back in 1860 - and today it's as true as ever. How will you manage day-to-day medical and dental bills while in Singapore? What if you or a family member suffer a serious injury or illness?

As an expat you won't be entitled to free public healthcare, so it’s critical you make other arrangements. Private healthcare in the Lion City is very expensive, making International Health Insurance something of a necessity.

What are the benefits of International Health Insurance with Allianz Care? 

Allianz Care offers a range of comprehensive plans to suit expats of all kinds - from individuals on short term work contracts, to families looking to stay longer.

As a policyholder you'll get comprehensive in-patient and out-patient benefits, covering a range of treatments, including specialist fees and diagnostic tests, plus a generous cover for alternative treatment and physiotherapy.

You'll also have access to health and wellbeing benefits, including digital health apps - helping you to stay healthy.

Critically, you'll be covered for emergency treatment in Singapore (and other regions you include in your policy), medical evacuation and nursing at home.

You can also add various supplemental covers including Maternity, Dental and Repatriation Plans. Plus you’ll have access to a large network of experienced medical providers - 900,000 and growing.

More benefits:

●     Olive - Allianz Care’s Health & Wellness support program, with the HealthSteps* fitness app, our Health and Wellness Hub and monthly webinars.

●     Travel Security Services* - 24/7 personal security information and travel safety advice.

●     The Expat Assistance Programme* - confidential 24/7 multilingual support service, helping you make the most of your new Singapore life.

●     Video and teleconsultation service* – save time by seeing a doctor when and where you want.

●     Geographical area of coverage: you can build a policy that covers other countries, as well as Singapore. 

Find more information about Allianz Care International Healthcare here

Singapore is a stone's-throw from many beautiful countries. For example, the golden sandy beaches of Phuket in Thailand are just 2.5 hours from Changi Airport, as are the stunning rice terraces of Bali.

Other highlights include temple-hopping in Cambodia, jungle hiking in Malaysia, and partying on the beaches of Boracay in the Philippines.

You can cover yourself for medical emergencies, cancellations and curtailments with an Allianz Travel insurance policy. Plan to explore often? Why not consider a great value, time-saving Annual plan? Then you'll always have access to 24/7 Emergency Assistance if something goes wrong while overseas.