10 Reasons Why You Should Not Relocate To Singapore

Thinking about relocating to Singapore? Find out why it may not be the place for you.

Friends! There is more to this tiny Island than hawker centers and illegal chewing gum. If you’re on the fence about making the move to Singapore …then you’ve come to the right place! I’ve compiled a list of reasons why it may not be the right place for you. So before you relocate to Singapore- read this! It’s always better to be prepared and informed, so let’s get into it.

The Humid Weather

If you originate from a region with a cooler climate you might struggle with the tropical weather of Singapore. You’ll rarely experience temperatures under 30 Degrees Celsius and sunscreen will be your new BFF. The humidity is year-round and it takes time to adapt. Prepare for hair fall, dry skin, and constant perspiration! There are no distinct seasons and as a result, time passes by very quickly. The good news is that it does rain a lot too, so there will be some cooler days. But if you’re someone who thrives in colder weather…think twice before you relocate to Singapore.

Singapore is Tiny

This island-state is the second smallest country in Asia. It’s about 0.3% the size of England and you can easily get from one side to the other in under 45min. Although there is plenty to do in Singapore, it can get mundane pretty quickly and you’ll realize just how expensive Singapore can get.

In case of a pandemic, you’ll find yourself “trapped” on the island and this can feel very claustrophobic- you can read about my experience here. So Singapore may not be the place for you if you value road trips and exploring your home turf. It’s also a risky place to be in case of a border closure as you literally have nowhere to go.

The Cost Of Living Is High

Singapore is an expensive place to live. Things like alcohol, activities, and eating out at international restaurants will cost a pretty penny. If your “expat package” does not offer many benefits (like housing medical aid or schooling) you’ll soon discover how hard it is to save and enjoy all the island has to offer to the fullest. You may have to consider sharing accommodation in order to live more comfortably and you’ll have to rely solely on public transport to get around. Simple things like fresh vegetables, oat milk, and alcohol are very expensive.

Medical insurance prices are exorbitant and rarely cover childbirth and pre-existing conditions. International schools are incredibly expensive too! So if it seems like you’ll relocate to Singapore with a very basic package (without benefits etc), you should reconsider making the move unless you’re willing to compromise and adapt your lifestyle.

You Cannot Freelance In Singapore

Unfortunately, as a foreigner on a work pass, you are not allowed to Freelance. In order to work legally, you have to work for one company and one company only. You can open your own company to continue working on a freelance basis- but this process is very intricate- read all about it here. So if the idea of working for one company on a full-time basis does not appeal to you, I would reconsider the relocation.

Dependant Pass (DP) Holders Need A Work Permit

Dependants now have to secure their own Employment pass or Work Permit. It is incredibly difficult to secure either in the current climate and you can read more about this here. If your household requires a dual income, this could be an obstacle. If your occupation is on a shortage list, you might have more success in your search but it will be tricky if your job role can be filled by a local employee. So make sure to secure a job before you relocate to Singapore.

Cultural Differences

The best part of being an expat is experiencing new cultures! But many aren’t able to recover from the culture shock and differences presented in Singapore. It takes some time to get used to the spitting, slurping, and other strange noises made while eating. The local dishes that include things like fish eyeballs and lamb brains can be overwhelming for the less adventurous foodie. The very strict rules, the constant queueing, and the lack of balanced work-life does eventually take a toll too. So if you think that you will be unable to adapt or embrace living with a different culture, you probably should not move abroad…

Tiny Spaces At A Big Price Tag

Singapore is not the place for you if you envision yourself living in a spacious house with a big backyard. For a very reasonable price, in a place like South Africa, that vision is attainable. But in Singapore, you pay an arm and a leg (and some) for a tiny apartment in a condominium or an HDB (subsidized housing). Of course, if you are lucky enough you might be able to afford a big bungalow with a pool, but for most expats, that’s but a dream. Although most condos have facilities like a pool or a gym, the small space can close in on you after a while.

Ready For A Baby? You’ll Have To Wait A Few Months

Singapore has an incredible health care system and the government subsidizes medical care for Permanent Residents And Singaporeans. Unfortunately, foreigners aren’t entitled to these subsidies and most will take out private Medical Insurance. Most of these insurance plans do not cover childbirth unless you have been on the policy for 10- 12 months. If you do not have insurance, you can expect to pay anywhere between $6000- $20 000 for delivery. It’s a lot of money and will most certainly affect your family planning.

Owning A Car Is Very Expensive

Singapore is the most expensive country in which to buy and own a car. High Fees and taxes in addition to the actual price of the car, make it unattainable for most. The lucky few might get a car allowance from their company, but for the rest of us… you can kiss the thought goodbye. The public transport is phenomenal and there’s hardly a need for a car. But if the thought of commuting via public transport does not appeal to you and you won’t be able to afford a car, I would suggest you give Singapore a skip!

Singapore Is A Nanny State

A Nanny state refers to “an overprotective government that interferes with personal choice”. From chewing gum to walking around naked in your own house, it’s a country with many MANY rules. The citizens trust the government wholeheartedly and do not seem to mind giving up personal rights for public safety and overall harmony. If you believe that “rules were meant to be broken”… then Singapore is not the place for you!

My Musings

Look, guys, I have been an expat for a number of years and it’s been a wild ride. I have loved every minute of it and if I had to turn down an opportunity because I was unable to adapt, I would have missed out on so much. But let’s be honest, relocating to another country is brave but also challenging! For some of us, it is harder to adapt and there are deal-breakers. I hope that this blog has not deterred you from relocating. Instead, I hope it aids in your decision-making process. Now, why don’t you read my next blog to find out why Singapore might just be the perfect place for you after all. You can also read more about the things I wish I knew before I relocated to Singapore here.

Planning a move to Singapore? I’d love to hear from you!