The Complete Guide to Migrating Your Family to Singapore

As you consider relocating your family to Singapore, you likely have many questions about the process and logistics. This comprehensive guide outlines the primary pathways for migrating with family to this dynamic Southeast Asian city-state. We walk through eligibility requirements, application timelines, and costs associated with popular visa and residency options. You'll learn key factors to weigh when deciding which scheme fits your situation best, from children's education to housing and healthcare. With thorough research and advance planning, you can make an informed decision and smooth transition. Let us help demystify Singapore immigration step-by-step for your entire household.

Is Singapore a Good Place for My Family to Migrate To?

Exceptional opportunities for your children

Singapore's education system ranks among the best in the world. Your children will have access to high-quality schools and universities. Singapore also invests heavily in skills training and lifelong learning. This means your children will have opportunities to acquire skills and knowledge to thrive in the 21st-century economy.

Safe, clean and green environment

Singapore has one of the lowest crime rates in the world. It is also one of the cleanest and greenest cities, with extensive greenery, parks, and nature reserves. The infrastructure is highly developed, with efficient public transport and utilities. Healthcare and housing are affordable and accessible. All of these factors contribute to a high standard of living and peace of mind for families.

Economically vibrant with job opportunities

Singapore has a robust, growing economy with opportunities in sectors such as technology, finance, and maritime. As a Dependant's Pass or PR holder, your spouse can work in Singapore with few restrictions. Cost of living in Singapore is comparable to other global cities, but the salaries are attractive. Taxes are also relatively low, with no capital gains or inheritance tax.

In summary, Singapore scores highly as a destination for families looking to migrate. Your family will find comfort in Singapore's stability, security and standard of living. At the same time, there are opportunities for personal and professional growth in an exciting, cosmopolitan environment. With the right skills and mindset, migrating to Singapore could be a rewarding move for your family.

Requirements to Migrate Family Members to Singapore

To bring your family members to Singapore, you will need to meet certain eligibility criteria. As the sponsor, you must be a Singapore citizen or Permanent Resident (PR) to apply for Dependent Passes for your legally married spouse and unmarried children under 21.

Spouse

Your spouse can apply for a Dependent's Pass to join you in Singapore. You will need to prove that you have a genuine and stable marriage by providing documents like your marriage certificate. Your spouse must also meet health requirements and security screening.

Children

Your unmarried children under 21 years old can be included in your PR application or apply for a Dependent's Pass. You will need to provide their birth certificates proving your relationship. Children must also meet health checks and security screening. Children can stay in Singapore on a Dependent's Pass until they turn 21.

Application Process

To apply, you will need to submit the required documents, forms and fees to the Immigration & Checkpoints Authority (ICA). Processing times vary depending on application types but usually take a few weeks. Your family members granted entry can stay in Singapore for the duration of your pass. They can take up employment or study if they wish, subject to approval.

Migrating to a new country is challenging but bringing your loved ones with you can make the transition smoother. By meeting the requirements and going through the proper application process, you can build a new home for your family in Singapore. With patience and perseverance, you will be able to settle down together in this vibrant city.

Types of Immigration Passes for Migrating Family to Singapore

Dependant's Pass

The Dependant's Pass allows spouses and children under 21 years of age to join the holder of an Employment Pass (EP) or S Pass in Singapore. Dependants are allowed to stay in Singapore for the duration of the EP or S Pass. Dependants can work in Singapore if they find employment, subject to approval from the Ministry of Manpower. However, they are not allowed to engage in any business or investment activities.

Long-Term Visit Pass

The Long-Term Visit Pass (LTVP) allows family members of EP, S Pass and EntrePass holders to stay in Singapore for an extended period of time. It is issued for 6 months to 5 years and renewable. LTVP holders can remain in Singapore for leisure or to accompany their family members working in Singapore. They are not allowed to work, engage in business or study in Singapore. Applicants will need to show proof of financial support for the duration of their stay.

Dependent's Visa

Unmarried children aged 21 and above, and parents of EP holders may apply for a Dependent's Visa to remain in Singapore. Applicants will need to provide documents proving their relationship and financial dependence on the EP holder. Dependent's Visa holders can stay in Singapore for the duration of the EP but they are not allowed to work in Singapore. They will need to apply for renewal of the Dependent's Visa together with the EP holder.

In summary, the main options for family members to migrate to Singapore are the Dependant's Pass, Long-Term Visit Pass, and Dependent's Visa. The eligibility and privileges for each pass differ according to the relationship to the work pass holder and purpose of stay in Singapore. Prospective applicants should evaluate the options carefully based on their unique situation before applying to the relevant passes.

Cost of Living Considerations for Migrating Family to Singapore

Accommodation Expenses

Finding suitable housing in Singapore can be challenging due to limited space and high demand. The average rent for a three-bedroom apartment in a good location ranges from $3,000 to $7,000 per month. Purchasing a private residential property usually requires at least a 20% down payment and can cost between $500,000 to over $2 million, depending on the location and size. For most middle-income expat families, renting an apartment or condominium is the more affordable and flexible option.

Healthcare and Insurance

While Singapore has an efficient healthcare system, high-quality care and insurance do not come cheap. Mandatory health insurance for expats, known as private medical insurance, costs between $1,000 to $3,000 per year for a family. Expats also have the option of private healthcare for faster access and more comprehensive coverage, with premiums ranging from $5,000 to $20,000 per year for a family plan. Dental insurance is also advisable, with premiums of $500 to $1,500 per year for a family.

Child Education and Care

International schools in Singapore that follow foreign curricula tend to be expensive, with annual tuition fees ranging from $10,000 to $40,000 per child. Local schools that follow the Singapore curriculum have lower fees but may require extra tutoring for non-native students to adapt to the system. Pre-school or daycare five days a week can cost between $6,000 to $20,000 per year, depending on the program and facilities. Live-in maids, nannies or au pairs to help care for young children range from $500 to $1,000 per month including room, board, and salary.

In summary, while Singapore offers a high standard of living, the cost can be substantial for an expatriate family, especially when accounting for housing, healthcare, education, and childcare expenses. With prudent financial planning and realistic expectations about living costs in Singapore, an expat family can have an enjoyable experience in this modern island nation. Doing thorough research on the various options and associated fees for each major expense category is highly advisable before making the move.

Finding Housing When Migrating Your Family to Singapore

Condominiums and Apartments

When relocating your family to Singapore, condominiums and apartments are popular housing options, especially for expats. Condominiums, also known as condos, provide amenities like gyms, pools, and security features. Apartments offer more basic accommodation but at lower prices. Renting a condo or apartment allows flexibility and less maintenance. However, rental prices in Singapore can be high, especially in prime locations.

Landed Property

For those migrating long-term or permanently, purchasing a landed property such as a house may be appealing. Freehold landed houses provide the most stability but are the most expensive. Leasehold houses are more affordable but the land lease will eventually expire. Landed houses offer the most space and privacy but require the most responsibility to maintain. They are ideal for those with children or who want outdoor space. Popular residential areas for landed property include Bukit Timah, Upper Bukit Timah, and Seletar.

Public Housing

For migrant families on a budget, public housing in Singapore may be an option. The Housing Development Board (HDB) offers subsidized housing, including studio apartments, 2-5 room flats, and executive flats. HDB flats provide affordable housing but often have limited space and basic amenities. They do offer a stable long-term housing solution for those who meet eligibility criteria. Renting or purchasing an HDB resale flat are also options for migrant families.

In summary, Singapore offers housing solutions for migrant families at every price point and lifestyle. Conducting thorough research on locations, costs, and responsibilities of each option will help determine what solution is right for your family’s needs. With the high costs of living in Singapore, finding adequate and affordable housing is crucial to successfully relocating your family.

Healthcare and Insurance for Migrating Families

Public Healthcare Options

As a migrating family, you have options to enroll in public healthcare programs to gain coverage. Lawfully present immigrants, including those with work visas or green cards, can enroll in Medicaid and the Children’s Health Insurance Program (CHIP) for healthcare coverage. Some states provide comprehensive health insurance to low-income immigrants regardless of their status. However, undocumented immigrants are unable to get coverage through the health insurance marketplaces but can apply for coverage for lawfully present family members.

Private Health Insurance

For middle to high-income families migrating to Singapore, private health insurance is an option to consider. Private insurance plans offer coverage for services often not included in public healthcare like dental or vision. However, private plan premiums, deductibles, and out-of-pocket costs are typically higher. If employment-based coverage is not available to you, shop for plans through Singapore’s health insurance marketplace to compare policies and costs. Consider factors like monthly premiums, deductibles, coverage limits, and provider networks to find a plan suitable for your family’s needs and budget.

Additional Programs

Beyond health insurance, other resources can help migrating families address healthcare needs. Community health centers provide low-cost or free services like checkups, treatment, dental, and behavioral healthcare to individuals regardless of their ability to pay or insurance status. Public programs offer benefits to help pay for medications, transportation to medical appointments, and health insurance premiums or cost-sharing for those who qualify. Explore options through Singapore’s public benefit databases to determine if your family meets eligibility criteria for additional healthcare resources and support.

With an array of public and private options, migrating families can gain health insurance coverage and access to healthcare services in Singapore. Review all available plans and programs to find the solutions that best fit your family’s needs and financial situation. While the process may seem complex, resources exist to help guide you through enrollment and gaining the healthcare benefits you require.

Schools and Education for Children Migrating to Singapore

Primary and Secondary Schools

When migrating your family to Singapore, one of the most important considerations is your children’s education. Singapore’s education system is renowned for its rigor and focus on mathematics, science, and technology. Primary school lasts six years, for children ages 7 to 12, and is compulsory. Secondary school lasts five years, for ages 13 to 16. There are many high-quality options for both primary and secondary schools, including prestigious schools that use English as the main language of instruction, as well as schools focused on Chinese, Malay, and Tamil languages.

Private Schools

Private schools in Singapore provide an alternative to the public school system. There are many reputable private schools, especially for secondary education, including Hwa Chong Institution, Raffles Institution, and Anglo-Chinese School. These schools typically have highly selective admissions based on academic merit and school exams. Tuition fees at private schools are significantly higher than public schools. Private schools may appeal to expat families seeking a more internationally-focused curriculum or smaller class sizes.

International Schools

For expat families, international schools are a popular option. International schools in Singapore offer curricula from the UK (e.g. GCSEs and A-Levels), US (e.g. AP courses), Australia, and the International Baccalaureate (IB) program. The schools cater to expat students and use English as the primary language of instruction. Fees at international schools are usually higher than both public and private schools. However, international schools may provide a more familiar learning environment for children accustomed to Western-style education.

In summary, Singapore provides outstanding and varied opportunities for primary and secondary education, with prestigious public schools, reputable private institutions, and high-quality international schools. Expat families migrating to Singapore will want to carefully consider their priorities and budget to choose schools that will meet the needs of their children. With its competitive culture focused on math, science and technology, Singapore’s education system aims to prepare students for a globalized world.

Bringing Pets When Migrating Your Family to Singapore

Migrating to Singapore with pets requires significant preparation to ensure a smooth transition for your furry family members. To import dogs and cats into Singapore, you must obtain the necessary permits and have proper veterinary documentation confirming your pets meet the entry requirements.

Prior to migration, you will need to obtain an import permit for your pets from the Animal and Veterinary Service (AVS) in Singapore, which typically takes a minimum of 30 days to process. An AVS-licensed veterinarian must then examine your pets within 10 days of departure and certify they are in good health for travel. Your pets must be microchipped with an ISO 11784/11785 compliant 15-digit microchip for identification. Cats and dogs must also have a valid rabies vaccination and blood test confirming protective antibody levels.

Upon arrival in Singapore, dogs and cats undergo quarantine for 10 or 30 days, depending on their country of origin. The AVS will transport your pets from the airport to their quarantine facility. You are responsible for all fees related to your pets’ care and housing during quarantine. To claim your pets after quarantine, you must obtain a dog license and pay any necessary fees.

The rules surrounding pet migration are strictly enforced to safeguard public health in Singapore. Following the regulations carefully will help ensure your pets’ smooth entry and allow your furry family members to join you in your new home with minimal stress or delay. With the proper permits and medical clearance, migrating with pets to Singapore can be seamless. However, pet owners should plan significantly in advance and budget additional time and funds to navigate the importation process.

MIGRATE TO SINGAPORE: FAQs on Moving Your Family to Singapore

When relocating to Singapore for work, you will likely want to bring your spouse and children with you. Singapore welcomes dependants of employment pass holders through the Dependant Pass (Family visa). To migrate your family to Singapore, you should first secure an Employment Pass for yourself.

Once you have obtained an Employment Pass, you can apply for Dependant Passes for your spouse and any unmarried children under 21 years old. The application process includes submitting documents proving your relationship, undergoing medical exams, and paying required fees.

Your family members will need to meet certain requirements to qualify for a Dependant Pass, including:

• Meeting minimum age requirements (spouse must be at least 18; children must be unmarried and under 21)

• Possessing valid passports

• Undergoing medical checkups

• Not posing a security threat

• Having enough financial support (you must earn at least $6,000 per month to sponsor a spouse; $10,000 to sponsor children)

Dependant Passes are typically issued for the same duration as your Employment Pass. Your family members can enter Singapore to join you once their Dependant Passes have been approved. They will need to apply for re-entry permits if they leave Singapore and wish to return.

It is advisable to secure housing, healthcare, and schooling for your family before they arrive in Singapore. Government schools charge modest fees for expats, and there are many international schools with higher tuition. Rents in Singapore can be high, so plan your budget accordingly.

Bringing your family to migrate with you is a big step, but Singapore's high quality of life and low crime rates make it an attractive destination for expat families. With some advance planning, migrating your family to Singapore can be a smooth process. Please let me know if you have any other questions!

Frequently ask questions

As you prepare to migrate your family to Singapore, you likely have many questions regarding the process and options available. To obtain permanent residence in Singapore, the primary applicant will need to secure an Employment Pass (EP), S Pass, or Entrepreneur Pass. Once the main applicant has obtained their pass, family members such as spouses and unmarried children under 21 years old can apply for a Dependant's Pass (DP).

To apply for permanent residence (PR) in Singapore as a family, you will need to meet the following requirements:

• Submit copies of passports for all family members

• Show proof of relationship between family members such as marriage or birth certificates

• Meet the minimum salary requirement which is currently S$6,000 per month for the main applicant

• Have a fixed residential address in Singapore where the family will be staying

• Meet the character requirement by having no adverse records

Family members who hold a Dependant's Pass are allowed to work in Singapore. However, the DP does not allow one to start a business or enroll in university. For children's education, Singapore offers local schools, international schools, and private institutions at the primary, secondary, and tertiary levels. Schooling is not free for permanent residents and tuition can be quite high, especially for international schools. It is best to research the various options and costs before migrating.

Migrating to a new country can be challenging, especially with a family. However, Singapore offers a high quality of life, low tax rates, world-class infrastructure, healthcare, and education. With some advance planning, migrating your family to Singapore can be a very rewarding experience. Please do not hesitate to ask our office if you have any other questions.

Conclusion

As you consider the best path forward to migrate your family to Singapore, reflect carefully on the options outlined here. Analyze your unique circumstances, priorities and resources to determine the approach that aligns with your goals. While the process requires time and diligent preparation, the reward of calling one of Asia's most dynamic, diverse and developed countries your new home can be well worth the effort. Approach each step thoughtfully and remain flexible. With patience and perseverance, your family can successfully plant roots in this island nation. Though the road ahead has challenges, embrace this exciting journey with courage, hope and commitment. The possibilities awaiting you and your loved ones in Singapore are boundless.