Looking For A Mover?
Get 5 Quotes In Just 3 Easy Steps
Network of 500+ movers
150,000 moves annually

Moving to EU From Singapore: A Comprehensive Guide

A Complete Guide Including Costs, Visa Requirements, Tips, and a Checklist

Featured image

Moving from Singapore to Europe can be overwhelming, especially when you are not aware of the most important information. Fortunately, this article provides you with the latest information regarding visas, costs, and much more. Continue reading to discover more.

Why Should You Move to Europe?

Moving to EU from Singapore offers a range of benefits, from career opportunities to access to world-famous educational institutions, often with low or no tuition fees. Not only, the continent also holds a rich cultural heritage, vibrant lifestyles, and high standards of safety and healthcare, making it an attractive destination for most people.

Costs of Moving to Europe

​The average cost of moving from Singapore to Europe typically ranges between S$3,200 and S$8,300.

The actual cost of moving furniture to Europe is usually influenced by different factors such as the size of your move, the destination, and your chosen moving company.

See the estimated cost of shipping a container from Singapore to Europe:

Home Size20ft Container (SGD)40ft Container (SGD)
1-Bedroom Home$4,500 – $7,500$6,500 – $10,000
2-Bedroom Home$5,000 – $8,000$7,000 – $11,500
3-Bedroom HomeNot recommended$9,000 – $14,500
4-Bedroom HomeNot recommended$10,000 – $16,000

These are mere estimates. For accurate pricing, use our volume calculator below to estimate the size of your move.

Read more to find out overseas container shipping costs

Cost of Living in Europe vs Singapore

The average cost of living in Europe is generally 20–50% cheaper than in Singapore.

Depending on your destination, you can find the estimated cost of living by country in Europe in the table below:

ItemSingaporeGermany
Gasoline (1L)S$2.76S$2.47
Eggs (12)S$3.88S$4.30
Restaurant Meal (1)S$14.00S$22.48
Cappuccino (Regular)S$6.35S$5.22
Bread (500g loaf)S$2.86S$3.14

Disclaimer: These costs are only estimations. If you would like to find the cost of living in a specific country in Europe, we suggest checking out Numbeo.

Moving overseas from Singapore? Get expert tips & essential guides!
Sirelo uses the information you provide to us to contact you about our relevant content and services. You may unsubscribe at any time. For more information check our privacy policy

Moving Companies to Europe

We know how crucial it is to find a reliable moving company. That’s why we provided you with a list of some of the best moving companies to relocate from Singapore to Europe.

Wee Care Mobility Pte Ltd

With over 25 years of experience as a trusted international relocation company based in Singapore, Wee Care offers end-to-end moving, packing, storage, freight, and customs solutions. Their motto is “It’s not just about boxes; it’s about people, memories, and peace of mind”.

Reddot Movers

Reddot’s belief is that moving is a journey, not just a destination, that’s why, thanks to a passionate team, it offers personalised relocation plans tailored to customer needs, through careful and caring transportation.

Movers Inn

Over 10 years of experience relocating thousands of families across borders. Trusted agent network spanning over 40 major countries with world-class warehousing facilities across the globe.

Family Relocation

Through its more than 3000 worldwide partners, Family Relocation (S) Pte Ltd provides seamless door-to-door services to any corner of the globe. Family Relocation is run by a team of well-experienced and highly motivated management, administration, and operations team to offer the highest quality relocation services.

SMART Relocators

SMART Relocators has been operating in Singapore since 2011, covering all moving, storage, and relocation services. Managed by its founders who together have more than 50 years of experience in the logistics, moving, and relocation industry.

If you want to browse yourself international removal companies in Singapore or other locations, you can check our company listing here:

Find Moving Companies

Want to find out more about pricing? We advise you to click the button below and request up to 5  quotes to compare moving companies.

Container Shipping Quotes Now
Request up to five free moving quotes!

Choosing the Right Country: Best Ones to Settle Down

Europe is becoming very popular among expats. Living in EU can be challenging, especially if you are not sure which country is best for you. Check out the best European countries to live in, depending on what you are looking for:

  • Portugal: With a slower pace of life than Singapore, Portugal appeals to those seeking a relaxed lifestyle, friendly locals, and pleasant weather year-round.
  • Netherlands: With its widespread English fluency and progressive culture, the Netherlands is ideal for Singaporeans looking for a smooth transition into a Western European society.
  • Germany: Known for its economic stability, Germany attracts Singaporean professionals in search of good career opportunities and high living standards.
  • France: Rich in history, food, and art, France offers Singaporeans a vibrant cultural experience and a refreshing contrast to the city-state’s fast-paced environment.
  • Spain: With a laid-back lifestyle and sunny climate, Spain is perfect for Singaporeans craving a more relaxed, sociable, and outdoorsy way of life.

Pros and Cons of Living in Europe as a Singaporean

Pros

 Broader cultural exposure
 Easier and cheaper travel around the continent
 Accessible public healthcare
 Improved work-life balance

Cons

 Complex visa or residency processes
 Language barriers in daily life
 
Higher income taxes in many countries
 Slower bureaucracy than Singapore

Tax Rates in Europe

On average, income tax rates in Europe are 20–40% higher than in Singapore.
CountryIncome Tax Rate
Singapore22% (max marginal)
Portugal48%
Netherlands49.5%
Germany47.5%
France55.4%
Spain47%

Safety in Europe

Even if many factors influence the conception of safety, this is an updated list of the overall safest countries in Europe:

  • Iceland
  • Denmark
  • Ireland
  • Austria
  • Portugal

Visa and Immigration Requirements

Singaporeans need a visa for Europe when they decide to move to EU. It is important to know what kind of visa you need and what the requirements are. We created a table showcasing the most popular European countries requiring visas for Singaporean citizens:

CountryVisa Type
SpainDigital Nomad Visa
PortugalD7 Visa (Passive Income)
NetherlandsHighly Skilled Migrant Visa
GermanyEU Blue Card

Note: Read more on the official websites of the country of your choice for detailed information.

How to Apply For a European Visa

The general European visa requirements are as follows:

  • Valid Passport.
  • Completed Visa Application (found on the official country government page).
  • Passport Photos (must be recent).
  • Proof of Financial Means (bank statements, work contract).
  • Proof of Accommodation (rental contract).
  • Criminal Record Check.
  • Visa Fee Payment.
  • Language (some countries require learning their language).

In the European countries requiring visas, you need to apply directly on their official government websites. We suggest you investigate this topic, as it is crucial for your moving plans.

Are You Moving to Europe With Family?

If you are moving to EU with your family, then there are some requirements that you need to check as well. Look at the table below for more information regarding family reunification visas:

CountryVisa Type
PortugalFamily Reunification Visa
NetherlandsResidence Permit for Family
GermanyFamily Reunification Visa
FranceRegroupement Familial (Family Reunion)
SpainFamily Reunification Visa

Are You Moving to Europe With Pets?

If you’re planning on moving to Singapore to EU with your pets, you must be aware of some aspects:

  • Microchip your pet (ISO 11784/11785): Before vaccination for rabies.
  • Rabies vaccination: At least 21 days before travel, and after the microchip.
  • EU Health Certificate: Must be completed by a vet with a valid license.
  • Tapeworm treatment: Only required for dogs entering Finland, Ireland, Malta, and Norway.

Necessary documents:

  • Valid rabies certificate
  • EU Health Certificate
  • Proof of microchip implantation
  • Proof of tapeworm treatment (if applicable)

Moving to Europe Checklist

Are You Ready?

Good job for making it to the end! We hope our article has been useful to start your new journey. Good luck with your adventure!

If you need further information, read more in our moving abroad guide!

 

Frequently asked questions

What are the visa requirements for Singaporeans moving to EU?

How much does it cost to move to Europe from Singapore?

What are the most popular European destinations for Singaporeans?

Can I bring my pet when moving to EU?

How do I compare the cost of living between Singapore and Europe?