🇸🇬 Singapore, Here We Come!
- Mar 28
- 8 min read
From its position as a global financial hub to its clean, efficient, and multicultural environment, Singapore offers exceptional opportunities for individuals, families, and professionals starting a new chapter abroad. In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know to make your relocation from Japan to Singapore smooth, informed, and stress-free.
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1. Preparing for the Move to Singapore
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🛬 1. Preparing for the Move to Singapore
Visa & Immigration Requirements
Before relocating to Singapore, securing the correct work pass or residency status is essential. The type of pass depends on your employment level, qualifications, and purpose of stay.
Common visa categories for relocating individuals and families include:
Employment Pass (EP): For professionals, managers, and executives
S Pass: For mid-skilled workers
EntrePass: For entrepreneurs starting a business in Singapore
Dependent Pass: For spouses and children of EP holders
Long-Term Visit Pass (LTVP): For certain family members
Permanent Residency (PR): Available through schemes such as the Professionals/Technical Personnel program
Singapore’s immigration process is efficient but requires strict documentation. Momentum works with employers, immigration advisors, and destination partners to ensure your application is prepared correctly before departure.
Pre-Move Planning Checklist
Relocating to Singapore requires careful coordination. Starting at least 2–3 months in advance is recommended.
Your pre-move checklist should include:
Valid passports for all travelers
Work pass approval (IPA letter) and supporting documents
Certified Japanese versions of birth/marriage certificates (with English translations)
Vaccination and medical records
Driver’s license and international driving permit
Financial records and proof of funds
School records for children
Cancel or transfer services in Japan (utilities, mobile phone, bank accounts)
Momentum helps align your documentation, shipment, and move timeline for a smooth transition to your new home in Singapore.
Language Considerations
Singapore has four official languages: English, Mandarin, Malay, and Tamil. English is the primary language used in business, education, and government.
Useful tips:
English is widely spoken and used in daily life
“Singlish” (local colloquial English) may take time to understand
Multilingual environments are common
Momentum can connect you with partners offering bilingual or language support services where needed.
🏠 2. Housing & Living Arrangements
Renting a Home in Singapore
Singapore’s housing market is structured and efficient, but can be competitive depending on demand and location.
Key points to understand:
Lease Terms: Typically 12–24 months
Application Process: Requires employment pass, proof of income, and identification
Deposits: Usually 1–2 months’ rent
Furnished vs. Unfurnished: Many rentals are partially or fully furnished
Property Types: Condominiums, landed properties, and serviced apartments
Useful Platforms: PropertyGuru, 99.co, and local agents
Momentum’s destination partners can assist with property searches and lease negotiations.
Utilities & Home Setup
Once you’ve secured a rental, you’ll need to arrange utilities. Unlike in Japan, most services in Singapore are centralized and efficiently managed, with a mix of government-linked providers and private companies.
Common setup services include:
Electricity and Gas: Provided through SP Group or retail energy providers operating in the open electricity market. Tenants typically set up accounts directly.
Water: Managed centrally by PUB (Public Utilities Board) and billed through SP Group.
Internet: Providers include Singtel, StarHub, and M1, offering high-speed fibre connections across most residential areas.
Mobile Phone: Major carriers include Singtel, StarHub, M1, and various MVNO providers.
Tip: A local bank account, Employment Pass (or relevant visa), and proof of address are typically required to set up utility services. Setup is generally fast, often completed within a few days.
Neighborhoods & Commute
Singapore is compact and highly connected, with efficient transport links making commuting straightforward across the island.
Key considerations:
Proximity to work or school
Access to MRT (Mass Rapid Transit) stations and bus routes
City centre vs. residential district living preferences
Lifestyle factors such as proximity to parks, shopping malls, and business hubs
Public transport is highly developed and reliable, while taxis and ride-hailing services like Grab are widely available. Car ownership is possible but expensive due to regulatory costs.
Momentum helps match your housing choices with your relocation goals.
🏫 3. Daily Life & Integration
Transportation & Getting Around
Singapore offers one of the most efficient and reliable transport systems in the world, making daily travel simple and convenient.
Key points:
Public Transport: Extensive MRT (Mass Rapid Transit) and bus networks provide island-wide coverage and are clean, safe, and reliable.
Driving: Vehicles drive on the left-hand side of the road. Car ownership is possible but expensive due to Certificate of Entitlement (COE) costs.
Ride-Hailing: Services such as Grab are widely available and commonly used for daily transport.
License Conversion: Japanese driver’s licenses may be convertible to a Singapore license, subject to local requirements.
Walking: Highly walkable in many areas, with well-maintained pedestrian infrastructure.
Health Insurance & Medical Services
Singapore offers high-quality healthcare services with modern facilities and internationally trained professionals.
Healthcare must-knows:
Private healthcare is widely used by expats and offers fast access to specialists.
Employer-provided health insurance is common for professionals.
Public healthcare is available but access and subsidies may vary depending on residency status.
Clinics and hospitals are efficient, with short waiting times for most services.
Momentum’s partners can guide you through healthcare options and provider selection.
Schools & Education
Singapore offers a wide range of education options for international families.
Options include:
Public Schools: High academic standards, though access may be limited for expats.
Private Schools: Offer alternative curricula and specialized programs.
International Schools: Widely available, offering British, American, IB, and Japanese curricula.
Bilingual Education: Many schools offer strong English-language instruction with additional language support.
Enrollment requires documentation such as passport, visa status, school records, and vaccination history.
Momentum supports families with school selection and transition planning.
🧩 4. Culture, Customs & Etiquette
Everyday Social Etiquette
Singapore is multicultural, structured, and highly respectful of rules.
What to expect:
Greetings: Polite and professional, often with a handshake
Respect: Strong emphasis on harmony and respect across cultures
Tipping Culture: Not generally expected
Dress Code: Smart casual in most business and social settingsce is usually included in bills; small tips or rounding up are appreciated but not required.
Cultural Differences to Be Aware Of
Strict laws and regulations, including fines for littering or public disturbances
Respect for multicultural diversity and religious practices
Efficient and fast-paced lifestyle
Queueing and orderliness are important
Work Culture for Japanese Expats
Singapore’s business environment is professional, fast-paced, and internationally oriented, with strong expectations around performance, efficiency, and adaptability.
Key workplace norms:
Hierarchies exist, but communication is generally more open and pragmatic than in Japan
Meetings are focused and outcome-driven, with emphasis on efficiency and clear decision-making
Strong emphasis on performance, accountability, and results
Work-life balance varies by industry, with some sectors requiring longer working hours
Communication is typically direct yet polite, reflecting a mix of Western and Asian business practices
Momentum can provide cultural orientation and guidance for professionals adapting to Singaporean workplaces.
📦 5. Shipping & Settling In
What to Bring vs Buy in Singapore
Shipping household goods from Japan to Singapore requires careful decisions, especially considering space, costs, and climate.
Recommended to bring:
Personal electronics and devices: Laptops, tablets, and phones are generally compatible with Singapore voltage (230V), but you will need plug adapters (Type G).
Favorite kitchen tools or appliances: Japanese rice cookers, donabe pots, and specialty kitchen items are often preferred by expats, but check voltage compatibility.
Specialty clothing and footwear: Singapore sizes and styles may differ, especially for children or petite adults.
Japanese books, learning materials, or toys for children adjusting to the new language environment.
Medications and health supplements not available or difficult to find in Singapore.
Better to buy locally:
Large appliances: Most homes come with basic appliances, and purchasing locally ensures compatibility and warranty support.
Furniture: Local dimensions and styles may suit your space better. IKEA, Courts, and HipVan are commonly used options.
Cleaning supplies and household goods: These are inexpensive and easy to purchase after arrival.
Climate-appropriate clothing: Lightweight and breathable clothing is better purchased locally to suit Singapore’s tropical climate.
Momentum helps optimize your shipment based on practicality and cost.
Customs & Import Procedures
Singapore requires accurate documentation and clear declarations when importing household goods, with customs processes managed by Singapore Customs.
Key points:
Used household items for personal use are generally duty-free, provided they have been owned and used prior to arrival.
New or high-value items may be subject to Goods and Services Tax (GST) depending on declared value and classification.
Prohibited or restricted items include: firearms (strictly regulated), certain food products, controlled medicines, chewing gum (restricted), and counterfeit goods.
Food: Many food items are restricted. Commercially packaged goods may be allowed but must be declared. Fresh, homemade, or perishable items are often prohibited.
Alcohol and tobacco: Subject to strict limits, duties, and taxes, and must always be declared.
Customs inspections: Singapore Customs may inspect shipments to ensure compliance with import regulations.
Momentum’s Singapore destination agent will guide you through documentation requirements and coordinate with customs authorities to ensure efficient clearance.
Delivery, Unpacking & Settling In
Once your goods arrive in Singapore, your destination agent takes over the final delivery process.
You can expect:
Delivery arranged to match your move-in schedule
Placement of furniture in designated rooms
Basic unpacking of boxes and removal of packing materials
Debriefing on how to file claims for any missing or damaged items
Storage options if your new home is not yet ready
Momentum works closely with trusted partners to ensure a smooth handoff from Japan to your new home in Singapore, keeping communication open from door to door.
🤝 6. Support & Resources
Community & Support Networks
Singapore offers a well-established and internationally connected network of expat communities, cultural groups, and professional organizations.
Popular support networks include:
Japanese Chamber of Commerce & Industry Singapore (JCCI), supporting business networking and community engagement.
Japanese cultural and language organizations, including The Japan Creative Centre (Embassy of Japan) and various community groups offering language and cultural programs.
Japanese Embassy in Singapore, providing passport services, consular support, and community information.
Parent groups and cultural clubs connected to Japanese schools such as The Japanese School Singapore and supplementary education programs.
Online communities on platforms like Facebook and Meetup for networking, family support, business connections, and cultural exchange.tup for networking, family support, business connections, and cultural exchange.
Momentum’s partners can provide introductions to local networks and expat communities based on your destination.
Local Government Services & Registration
Singapore’s government systems are efficient and highly centralized, making most administrative processes straightforward for new residents.
Key services to take advantage of:
Immigration & Checkpoints Authority (ICA): Handles visa issuance, passes, and residency documentation.
Ministry of Manpower (MOM): Manages Employment Passes, S Passes, and work-related permits.
Public libraries: Offer free access to books, digital resources, and community programs across the island.
Town Councils: Provide local services such as estate management, waste disposal, and community facilities.
Healthcare registration: Access to public healthcare institutions is available, though most expats rely on private healthcare and employer-provided insurance.
Public and international schools: Assist with enrollment, assessments, and language support services for children.
Documentation such as your passport, visa or work pass, proof of address, and local contact details may be required for many of these registrations.
Momentum’s Role After the Move
At Momentum Worldwide Movers, our support doesn’t end once your shipment leaves Japan. Through our trusted network of partners in Singapore, we ensure continuity of service, communication, and care on the ground both before and after your move.
Our support continues beyond your arrival:
Coordinated delivery with our destination agent in Singapore
Support navigating customs procedures and insurance claims
Introductions to bilingual real estate professionals or school consultants
Follow-up check-ins to ensure everything arrived safely
Local guidance tailored to your destination, lifestyle, and family needs
Your journey may be global, but we at Momentum ensure continuity, clarity, and confidence throughout your relocation journey from Japan to Singapore.
🇸🇬 Wrapping Up
Relocating to Singapore offers a dynamic environment, strong infrastructure, and global career opportunities. With proper planning and expert support, your move from Japan can be efficient and stress-free. Momentum Worldwide Movers works with trusted partners across Singapore to guide you every step of the way.
✉️ Let’s Get Moving
Have questions about relocating to Singapore? Reach out to our team for personalized advice, timeline planning, or a no-obligation consultation. We’re ready when you are.
