Residents » Overview » When You Arrive

The list of things to do once you arrive may seem endless – but the sooner you get them over with, the sooner you’ll be enjoying all Singapore has to offer. Here are some of the main tasks you’ll have to tackle:

• Residency/visas – if you’re coming to Singapore for work you’ll need to submit your employment pass application, get an approval-in-principle letter and have a medical test (if applicable) before submitting your passport for them to process your residency application.

• Make a home – for information about residential areas see p.102, for accommodation options see p.97, and where to furnish your home see p.124.

• Find schools for your children – choosing a school is always a long process, more so when you’re in a foreign country. Start the process early and bear in mind that as there could be waiting lists, any research you do in advance (on the internet or by asking other expats with school-going children) will stand you in good stead. See the Education section on p.150.

• Get connected – find out how to get a mobile phone on p.134 and how to get your utilities up and running (p.132).

• Licences – see p.75 to find out about the licences you need to drive a car or p.136 for your TV.

• Register with your embassy – it’s a good idea to let your embassy know you’re living in Singapore.

• Settle in – start to enjoy your new home by exploring the country (p.172) and getting involved in sports or other activities (p.242). Start meeting members of your new community through social groups (p.294) and at places of worship (p.20)