Singapore is a bustling hub of commerce, culture and culinary delights, and it’s an attractive destination for expats and travellers alike. If you’re considering relocating to this vibrant part of the world, timing your move can make a significant difference in your transition experience. In this blog, we have taken a look at the best time to move to Singapore, and the key things to consider when you are planning your relocation.
Seasonal and Weather Considerations
As it’s located near the equator, the climate in Singapore is a tropical rainforest climate. The weather is warm and humid throughout the year, with temperatures typically ranging from 25°C to 31°C. There are no distinct seasons in Singapore, but the year can be broadly divided into two monsoon periods.
The Northeast Monsoon period runs from December to March, and it’s characterised by heavy rainfall and cooler temperatures. December and January are particularly wet months. The Southwest Monsoon period runs from June to September, and it’s less intense than the Northeast Monsoon. You can expect shorter, intermittent showers and slightly drier conditions.
If you prefer avoiding heavy rains and high humidity during your move, consider relocating between March and May, or between September and November. These periods offer relatively stable weather conditions, which can make the transition smoother.
Singapore Peak Moving Season
The cost of living in Singapore is one of the highest in the world, and so moving costs can be high, especially if you decide to move during Singapore’s peak moving season. However, there are certain periods when you might find better deals. For example, the property market tends to be more favourable towards renters during the first half of the year. This is when leases often expire, and there is a higher availability of rental units for you to choose from. You might find better rental deals and more options during this time.
To keep your moving costs low, consider avoiding peak travel seasons, such as December holidays and Chinese New Year, both of which are celebrated in Singapore. Booking flights and moving services during off-peak times can save you money and reduce the stress of finding available services.
Starting School in Singapore
If you are moving to Singapore with children, the academic calendar is a key factor in deciding the best time to move. The school year in Singapore runs from January to November, with long breaks in June and December. If you want your children to start at the beginning of the school year, consider moving in December or early January. This allows children to begin the school year at the same time as their peers. Some international schools offer mid-year intakes, which can be convenient if you move around June or July.
Deciding When to Relocate to Singapore
Job Market
Singapore’s job market is highly competitive and there’s a demand for skilled professionals, particularly in industries like information technology and fintech, which are rapidly growing. To maximise your chances of securing employment when you arrive, consider moving to Singapore in the first quarter of the year. Many of the biggest companies in Singapore start their hiring processes and budget allocations during this period, resulting in a higher number of job openings.
Attending industry conferences and networking events, which are more frequent in the early part of the year, can provide valuable opportunities to connect with potential employers. Thus, increasing your chances of finding employment shortly after your move. By timing your move to coincide with Singapore’s hiring peak, you can boost your job search efforts and increase your chances of landing a position.
Housing Market
The housing market in Singapore is highly competitive, with demand for both rental and purchase properties remaining strong. This is due to Singapore’s limited land area and large population. The best time to move in terms of finding housing tends to be from January to June. During this period, many leases expire, leading to a higher availability of rental properties and potentially better deals. This is also when a lot of expats relocate, meaning that the market experiences a natural turnover. Moving at the end of the year, around November and December, can be more challenging as the market slows down due to the holiday season.
It’s also helpful to explore the housing market during off peak times, as you’re likely to have more flexibility and options. This ensures that you find a home that meets your needs without the pressure of intense competition.
Visa and Legal Considerations
When you are planning your move to Singapore, it’s important to be aware of the visa requirements and timelines, as some visas have specific conditions and validity periods. For instance, Singapore’s Employment Pass (EP) and S Pass holders must typically enter Singapore within a certain number of months from the visa issuance date, which is usually three to six months.
You also need to consider the processing times for visa applications, which can vary depending on the type of visa and your nationality. Starting the application process well in advance and carefully planning your move to coincide with your visa’s entry requirements will help you to have a smoother transition to your new life in Singapore.
Personal Factors
It’s important to consider various personal factors that can impact the timing of your relocation. Aligning your move with the completion of a major project at work can ensure a smoother professional transition and help you start fresh in your new role. Similarly, timing the move around the end of the school year can be less disruptive for children, allowing them to start the new academic year seamlessly in Singapore.
Additionally, taking into account family commitments such as weddings, holidays or significant anniversaries can help you avoid conflicts and ensure that you can fully participate in these important events before you leave.
Research and Preparation
Giving yourself enough time to research and prepare for your move to Singapore is key for a smooth and successful transition. Thorough preparation allows you to understand the cultural nuances, legal requirements and logistical challenges of relocating to a new country. It provides the opportunity to explore Singapore neighbourhoods, compare housing options, and familiarise yourself with the local job market.
Adequate research time also gives you the chance to gather all necessary documentation for visa applications, school enrollments and healthcare arrangements, ensuring you meet all deadlines and avoid last minute complications. By giving yourself sufficient time to plan, you can mitigate potential issues, reduce stress, and ensure a seamless start to your new life in Singapore.
Festivals and Events
There are a wide range of cultures in Singapore, and its calendar is filled with vibrant festivals and events throughout the year. Moving during or just before a major festival can offer a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in local culture, but it’s also likely to be a slightly busier time in the city.
Chinese New Year is in January or February, and it’s a time when the city comes alive with decorations, parades and celebrations. However, this period can be very busy, and services may be disrupted. Hari Raya Puasa, also known as Eid al-Fitr, is a Muslim festival that marks the end of Ramadan and is a significant event in Singapore. National Day on 9th August can also be busy, but it’s a great time to experience patriotic celebrations, parades and fireworks.
Start Planning Your Move to Singapore Today
Relocating to Singapore offers an exciting opportunity to immerse yourself in a vibrant, multicultural environment with endless professional and personal growth potential. But, don’t overlook the importance of preparation and research, both of which are key to navigating the complexities of relocation. This includes organising international removals.
Regardless of when you are moving to Singapore, our experts are always on hand to guide you through the removal process. Get in touch to find out more.