Onward, Singapore

The island-city-state of the Republic of Singapore lies off the southern tip of Malaysia. Its equatorial climate means visitors will need to become accustomed to the country’s high humidity and abundant rainfall. For many, it may be a minor nuisance worth experiencing, if it means living in one of Asia’s most multi-ethnic cosmopolitan cities.

Singapore has a solid history of economic growth and political stability. It plays a key role in both international trade, finance, and boasts one of the lowest unemployment rates in the world. When combined with universal healthcare, a strong education system, lucrative tax incentives and a culture of unity and tolerance, it may explain why so many skilled workers and professionals from all over the world have come to call Singapore home over the years.

As with any other country, living in Singapore does have its trade-offs. The cost of living is high, as it is often ranked in the top ten locations in Asia. Property prices are expensive and options somewhat limited given the shortage of land for building. Therefore, renting an apartment or condominium remains the popular choice among expats, as buying can be both challenging and expensive. The government controls and restricts the media, so the concept of a free press does not exist, and while the country is a cultural epicenter, the government maintains tight restrictions on all arts and cultural performances.

For Singapore, one of its most valuable resources for its economic growth has been an investment in human capital. This belief is reflected in its open immigration policy under which both highly skilled professionals and unskilled labourers are welcomed once they have applied for and received the appropriate visa and work permits.

Singapore is characterized as a nation that is:

Culturally diverse | its population is made up of Chinese, Malays, Indians, Asians and Caucasians of all different ethnic origins.

Wealthy| Singapore ranks highly in terms of wealth. It is the fourth wealthiest country in the world in terms of GDP (PPP) per capita and 20th in terms of GDP (nominal) per capita.

Economically Dependent | the country’s economy is heavily dependent on exports and refining imported goods.