Expert Info
on 21 Feb 2012
Hi All I am an Indian currently working in Africa, just in case of finding a better prospect i would like to relocate to Singapore, to be honest from my side i come across a loads of Job offers in my industry of which most of them i will get suited. My question is whether to continue applying through various websites or take a chance and land in Singapore to get placed in a suitable offer. Kindly assist whether it is advisable to come to Singapore in a visit visa and look for a suitable Job directly or through a consultant , else keep applying unless i get shortlisted by an employer/recruitment agencies. Please also assist to suggest me a good & economic accommodation as i will be staying alone and searching a Job. Is there any chance that some companies provide accommodation to their staffs? Kindly assist, i shall count on your advise if my move is imminent... Thanks in advance
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One thing I strongly advise you against is to come to Singapore and try and find a job. The Government announced further foreigner ceiling reductions in the 2012 budget which will make the already tough market even more difficult. You must secure a position with an employer with the relevant working pass before coming here.
Singapore housing is also expensive so make sure your new salary can cope with the financial demands.
Hope that helps.
It always best to try to secure a job offer before you arrive in Singapore. To get a employment pass (EP) for Singapore the Ministry of Manpower either require you to have plans to open your own business or already have a job offer in hand before the permit is granted. For more detailed information on the various work permits available in Singapore please take a look at the Expat Arrival's page on Work Permits for Singapore.
With regards to your question on job offers for the more senior positions companies will often provide a good housing allowance as part of the contract - so its best to try a negotiate a substantial amount when negotiating your contract. If you are on a tight budget you could consider looking at places in Serangoon, Bishan and Thomson which are a short commute away from the CBD with more resonable rents than you'd experience in the city centry.
I would take a look at the following expat arrivals pages before making any decisions on accomodation : Areas and Suburbs in Singapore and Renting Property in Singapore.
I hope this helps. Good luck with the move to Singapore.
Hi Anonymous,
It may be possible to live on that salary in Singapore but it won't be easy. The cost of living in Singapore is high and continues to rise year or year.
For instance, you said that HSBC are offering you a 600SGD housing allowance but the average rental on a room in a shared apartment is double that at R1200SGD so you'll end forking out more from your salary. Ultimately, how much you spend and save will depend on the type of lifestyle you lead. (i.e. where you choose to live and wether you go out to eat, etc). Take a look at the Expat Arrivals page on the Cost of Living in Singapore to get a better idea of what expenses you should expect when relocating.
Don't be afraid to negotiate with your employer for a better package.
Good luck!
For general information and resources that can assist you in finding a job in Singapore take a look at this recently updated page on Working in Singapore.
Good luck.
Shantalie