Moving to Singapore

Secure your Employment Pass (EP) or relevant work pass from the Ministry of Manpower before arrival. Register with IRAS (tax authority) upon starting employment. Singapore is small and densely priced — research HDB (public housing) vs. condo vs. landed property early. Most expats opt for furnished condominiums initially.

• Sea freight transit: UK 20–28 days; Australia 10–16 days; UAE 12–18 days; US 30–40 days.
• Singapore imposes GST (currently 9%) on all imports, including personal effects. No duty-free allowance for household goods except for approved returning residents.
• Air freight is popular for executives relocating quickly — Singapore's Changi Airport handles it seamlessly.
• HDB flats have strict elevator and stairwell size restrictions — measure furniture before shipping.
• Climate is tropical year-round — humidity can damage timber furniture, electronics, and books. Use sealed packing and silica gel.

• Passport and valid Singapore work or residency pass.
• Customs In-Payment permit via TradeNet (for goods subject to GST).
• Detailed inventory list with HS codes for Singapore Customs.
• Employment Pass approval letter (may be required to support GST waiver applications).
• Authority to Operate (ATO) from your moving company for Singapore Customs clearance.

Singapore Customs manages all imports via the TradeNet electronic system. GST at 9% applies to all imported personal effects. Returning Singapore citizens/PRs who have been abroad for 6+ months may qualify for a GST exemption on personal effects. Prohibited items include: chewing gum for import/sale, fireworks, and certain publications.

• Not budgeting for 9% GST on your entire shipment value — this is a significant additional cost.
• Shipping chewing gum — it is banned for import and sale in Singapore.
• Packing oversized furniture without measuring your condo or HDB unit's doorways and lifts.
• Not declaring all dutiable goods honestly — Singapore Customs takes a zero-tolerance approach to misdeclaration.