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Last Updated on October 26, 2024
For some, making their
Nearly every country offers opportunities for professionals to work abroad, but the availability of these opportunities greatly depends on one’s industry expertise. It’s essential to select a country with a growing economy, although such nations can be rare. However, some countries, like Singapore, are experiencing a boom in certain industrial sectors. This makes them ideal destinations for professionals seeking to advance their careers internationally.
Officially known as the Republic of Singapore, this nation lies at the southern tip of the Malay Peninsula. It is rapidly gaining recognition as a key destination for various career fields. Professionals in research and development, digital media, advertising, and finance will find Singapore particularly attractive. This country offers significant opportunities for those looking to work abroad in these dynamic and flourishing sectors.
If you’re seriously considering relocating to Singapore for career advancement, here are several key tips to guide you in this process.
Pros and Cons
- High Quality of Life: Singapore offers an excellent quality of life with its clean, safe, and efficient city living. It’s renowned for its top-notch public transport, healthcare, and public safety, making it an attractive place for expats.
- Strong Job Market: The city-state has a robust economy with a strong job market, particularly in finance, tech, and trade. Its status as a global business hub provides numerous career opportunities for professionals.
- Cultural Diversity: Singapore’s multicultural society embraces diversity, offering a blend of Asian and Western cultures. This melting pot environment is ideal for expats seeking a culturally enriching experience.
- High Cost of Living: One of the major cons is the high cost of living. Accommodation, schooling, and general living
expenses can be significantly higher than in many other countries. - Competitive Work Environment: Singapore’s work culture is known for being highly competitive, with long working hours. This might be challenging for those used to a more relaxed work environment.
- Strict Laws and Regulations: The country is known for its strict laws and regulations, which can be a shock for newcomers. It’s important to familiarize oneself with these to avoid unintentional offenses.
- Weather and Climate: The tropical climate means hot and humid weather year-round, which might be uncomfortable for those used to cooler climates. However, it also offers year-round outdoor activities.
- Excellent Education System: Singapore boasts a high-quality education system, making it an ideal location for expats with families. The country offers a range of international schools with various curricula.
- Limited Political Freedom: Some expats may find the limited political freedom and expression in Singapore constraining compared to their home countries.
- Easy Travel Hub: Singapore’s location in Southeast Asia makes it a great hub for traveling around the region. It offers easy access to numerous destinations for leisure and exploration.
Being granted permission to work in the country
Indeed, getting a job in Singapore is not as easy as it once was due to tightened government restrictions on expats coming into the country to work. If successful with a company, they will likely have to justify why choosing you for the role over an actual resident has more benefits.
In most cases, this isn’t a particular problem, and if you have the right
Applying for work
The first rule when applying for jobs in Singapore is that anything that is flagged as ‘Singaporeans/PRs only’ means it is reserved just for nationals and permanent residents only, so there’s no point in going any further with these. When this isn’t mentioned, you can feel free to assume that you can apply.
Step into the future with a career in Singapore, the global hub of innovation and opportunity! Experience a fusion of cultures, leading-edge industries, and unparalleled growth. It's your time to shine in this vibrant city-state. #SingaporeCareerClick To TweetWhen applying for work in a new country, it’s essential to clearly state your background and status. This includes mentioning that you are a foreigner seeking employment and being transparent about your duration of stay. Specify whether you hold a dependent pass, or a long- or short-term pass. This clarity helps potential employers assess the feasibility of your application in terms of time and resources.
Regarding job interviews, the process in a new country often mirrors familiar patterns. Typically, it starts with an initial interview. If you are shortlisted, a second interview follows, and sometimes, a third may be required for further assessment. Being prepared for each stage and understanding the local interview customs can enhance your chances of success.
Taking a job offer
Singapore, unlike most countries, offers salaries in monthly terms rather than annually. Tax is also a different issue and it will be hard to compare it against the rates in your home nation, but they will likely be favorable in Singapore.
Salaries offered in job ads are usually an estimate and it is hard to know or guess what your co-workers will be being paid unless they tell you directly. To find out more accurate information, going through recruiters such as AP-Executive.com for the likes of a private banking job will always be a good move.
Upon accepting a job offer, your start date will be contingent on obtaining your Employment Pass, which may take up to two weeks to process. It’s important to remain patient during this time. Once you receive your pass, you’ll be all set to embark on your new professional journey in a different country, ready to embrace the unique experiences and opportunities it offers.
The Expert Expat is essential reading for anyone moving overseas. Personal stories - from the authors' dozens of years abroad as well as the experience of countless expats worldwide - help prepare people for the exhilarating and daunting task of establishing a life far from home.
A practical and encouraging guide for adults seeking a fresh start abroad, offering insights on planning, relocating, and thriving in a new country.
Written by an American expat who lived in Italy and is still living in France, this book gives you the right questions to ask about moving abroad. Better yet, it also gives you the answers.
Joey Trebif is the pen name of Mark Fiebert, a former finance executive who hired and managed dozens of professionals during his 30-plus-year career. He now shares expert job search, resume, and career advice on CareerAlley.com.
