Are rental deposits in Singapore refundable?

Yes. The tenancy security deposit and SP Group utility deposit are fully refundable at the end of the tenancy, less any agreed deductions for tenant-caused damages or outstanding utility balances.

How long does it take to find a rental apartment in Singapore?

Most expats find a suitable condo or HDB within 1 to 2 weeks of active viewings. Tenancy handover typically takes 3 to 7 days after the Letter of Intent (LOI) and Tenancy Agreement (TA) are finalized.

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Singapore Relocation Cost Estimator

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Estimate total upfront landing cash needed for Singapore — rental deposits, agent fees, temporary housing, utilities, shipping, and pass issuance.

✈️Expat Setup & Cash Flow Simulator

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Singapore Relocation Cost Estimator — Upfront Setup Costs

Estimate the total upfront landing cash required to move to Singapore — covering rental security deposits, agent commissions, temporary accommodation, international shipping, utilities, pass fees, and furnishing buffers.

🏠 1. Housing & Rental Setup

Moving Household Size:

Anticipated Housing Type in Singapore:

Lease Duration:

Property Agent Rep:

📦 2. Logistics, Shipping & Arrival

International Relocation / Moving Cargo:

Initial Temporary Hotel/Stay:

Apartment Furnishing State:

Pet Relocation & Quarantine:

Estimated Total Upfront Landing Capital

S$26,032

Total initial cash reserve recommended before your first Singapore paycheck.

Refundable Deposits:

S$8,600

Lease & SP utility deposits returned at lease end

One-Time Sunk Costs:

S$17,432

Flights, shipping, pass fees, initial rent & setup

Itemized Cost Breakdown

Rental Security Deposit (2 Mo)[Refundable]

S$7,600

First Month Advance RentS$3,800

Agent Fee + IRAS Tenancy Stamp DutyS$4,507

Flights (1 Pax) & Relocation CargoS$3,700

Initial Hotel / Serviced Stay (14 Days)S$2,240

Initial Furnishing & Kitchen/Bedding KitS$1,200

SP Group & Telco Deposits[S$500-1k Refundable]

S$1,170

MOM Pass Issuance & Medical CheckupsS$315

First-Month Living Buffer (Groceries/Transit)S$1,500

💡 Expat Money-Saving Tips:

Tenant Agent Fee: You can save S$4,142 by contacting landlord listing agents directly on PropertyGuru for rentals above S$4,000/mo.
SP Group Deposit: Foreigners on GIRO auto-pay can sometimes apply for reduced utility deposit thresholds.

Note & Market Variance: All figures are indicative 2026 guidelines based on prevailing Singapore rental rates and standard tenancy practices. Actual costs vary with property district (Core Central vs Suburbs), flight departure city, and personal lifestyle choices.

Clear Answers

Frequently Asked Questions

For a single professional renting a 1-bedroom condo ($3,800/mo), expect an upfront landing capital requirement of S$16,000 to S$22,000 (including 2-month deposit, advance rent, flights, and setup). For a family with children, budget S$30,000 to S$45,000.