📚 Comprehensive Guides
Visas & Entry
Employment Pass, S Pass, EntrePass, and Dependant's Pass requirements and application process.
Permanent Residency
PR application process, Global Investor Programme, and the path to citizenship.
Property Ownership
Restrictions on landed property, ABSD stamp duties, and what foreigners can buy.
Tax Planning
Singapore tax residency, US-Singapore tax treaty, FBAR/FATCA, and avoiding double taxation.
Healthcare
World-class healthcare system, insurance requirements, CPF Medisave, and costs.
Banking & Finance
Opening accounts, wealth management, private banking, and US compliance challenges.
Safety & Security
One of the world's safest countries. Low crime, strict laws, and what expats should know.
Business Setup
Company incorporation, Pte Ltd structures, employment regulations, and EP requirements.
Legal System
Strict laws, harsh penalties, what catches expats off guard, and embassy assistance.
Cost of Living
One of the most expensive cities globally. Housing, education, and realistic budgets.
Family Offices
Section 13O/13U tax exemptions, Variable Capital Companies, and wealth structuring.
🌏 Why Singapore for US Expats?
Singapore has become Asia's premier destination for American professionals, entrepreneurs, and wealthy families seeking a stable, business-friendly environment with world-class infrastructure.
- Business hub: #1 globally for ease of doing business, minimal bureaucracy
- Tax efficiency: No capital gains tax, 17% corporate rate, territorial system
- Safety: Consistently ranked among world's safest cities
- Rule of law: Strong legal system, contract enforcement, IP protection
- Gateway to Asia: Strategic location for APAC business operations
- Family offices: 1,400+ family offices, favorable Section 13O/13U incentives
⚠️ Critical Considerations
Despite Singapore's favorable tax regime, US citizens must still file US taxes on worldwide income. Singapore's 0% capital gains doesn't help you—the US will tax those gains. Proper planning with cross-border expertise is essential.
Key Singapore Laws
- Immigration Act: Visa and work pass requirements
- Income Tax Act: Tax residency and rates
- Residential Property Act: Foreign ownership restrictions
- Companies Act: Business incorporation rules
- Employment Act: Labor protections and requirements
US-Singapore Tax Treaty
- Reduces withholding on dividends and interest
- Prevents double taxation on employment income
- Includes exchange of information provisions
- Does NOT exempt US citizens from US tax
- Foreign Tax Credit available for Singapore taxes paid
Employment Pass Requirements
- Minimum salary: S$5,000/month (2024)
- Higher for financial services: S$5,500+
- COMPASS framework points system
- Employer must be Singapore company
- Typically valid 2-3 years, renewable
Property Restrictions
- Foreigners cannot buy landed property
- Can buy condos, apartments (with ABSD)
- Additional Buyer's Stamp Duty: 60% for foreigners
- US citizens: 30% ABSD (treaty rate)
- PRs and citizens pay lower ABSD rates
📞 Key Contacts
US Embassy Singapore
- Address: 27 Napier Road, Singapore 258508
- Phone: +65 6476 9100
- Emergency: +65 6476 9100
- Website: sg.usembassy.gov
Singapore Government
- MOM: mom.gov.sg (work passes)
- ICA: ica.gov.sg (immigration)
- IRAS: iras.gov.sg (taxes)
- ACRA: acra.gov.sg (companies)