Singapore
Asia's business capital
Singapore is the anti-Bali. Everything works perfectly, nothing is cheap, and you're here for business not beaches. Zero income tax on foreign income, world's easiest place to do business, and a strategic location that makes it Asia's de facto financial hub.
Our framework evaluates Singapore across 6 strategic pillars. Each pillar answers a key question that matters when planning your relocation strategy.
Profile Weight Distribution
How we score: Six strategic pillars with weighted sub-factors. Confidence indicators show data quality (●●● = verified, ●●○ = researched, ●○○ = editorial). Read our full methodology
Profile weighting: Different expat profiles prioritize different pillars. Select your profile above to see personalized rankings.
Something off? These scores improve with feedback. Help us get it right
Immigration Overview
Singapore is for a specific type of expat: high earners who want efficiency, safety, and business infrastructure above all else. It's not cheap, it's not adventurous, and the cultural experience is more shopping mall than street market. But if you're building a company, managing wealth, or need a base for Asia-Pacific business operations, nothing else competes.
The tax structure is Singapore's killer feature: 0-22% income tax with no capital gains tax, no inheritance tax, and territorial taxation that exempts most foreign income. For entrepreneurs and investors, the math works even at Singapore's high cost of living.
Immigration is competitive. The Employment Pass requires local employment, the EntrePass needs a strong business plan with government-approved accelerator backing, and the Global Investor Program requires $2.5M+ in business investment. Singapore wants high-value residents and prices accordingly.
Visa & Residency Pathways
Employment Pass (EP)
The most common path for professionals
- SGD 5,000/month minimum salary (higher for older applicants)
- Employer sponsorship required
- COMPASS points system since 2023
- 2-year initial, then 3-year renewals
- Path to Permanent Residence
EntrePass
For founders starting innovative businesses
- Must be starting new business in Singapore
- Requires VC funding or accelerator backing
- Innovation/IP criteria important
- 1-year initial, renewable
- Can bring dependents after renewal
Global Investor Program (GIP)
For ultra-high-net-worth individuals
- Option A: SGD 10M in new Singapore business
- Option B: SGD 25M in GIP-approved funds
- Option C: SGD 50M in family office
- Direct path to Permanent Residence
- Family included
ONE Pass
For top-tier talent in business, arts, sports, academia
- SGD 30,000/month salary or equivalent
- Outstanding achievements required
- 5-year duration
- Freedom to work for multiple employers
- Start businesses without additional approval
Why Singapore?
Tax Efficiency
0-22% income tax, no capital gains, no inheritance tax. Territorial system exempts foreign income. Optimal for wealth accumulation.
Business Infrastructure
World Bank ranks Singapore #1 for ease of business. Company registration in a day. Banking, legal, everything just works.
Safety & Stability
One of the world's safest cities. Rule of law, no corruption, political stability. Your assets are secure.
English Native
English is primary language of business and government. No translation needed, no language barrier.
Global Connectivity
Changi Airport is world's best. Direct flights everywhere. Perfect hub for Asia-Pacific business travel.
World-Class Healthcare
Top-tier medical facilities. Medical tourism destination. Excellent private and public options.
General Requirements
Common requirements for Singapore visas:
- Valid passport
- Educational certificates (verified)
- Employment contract or business plan
- COMPASS self-assessment (for EP)
- Company registration (for EntrePass)
- Proof of investment funds (for GIP)
Singapore's immigration has tightened significantly since 2020. The COMPASS framework scores applications on salary, qualifications, company characteristics, and diversity. Meeting minimum salary alone no longer guarantees approval.
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