Welcome to Singapore! The Lion City is an incredible place to live and work, but the first week can feel like a whirlwind of paperwork and new systems. Getting your digital life in order is the key to a smooth transition. This checklist will guide you through the essential digital tasks for getting settled in Singapore, from the moment you land.
One of the first hurdles is staying connected. You’ll need data for maps, messaging, and accessing crucial information right away. Instead of getting stuck in a queue for a local SIM or committing to a long-term plan, get instant, flexible data with a Yoho Mobile Singapore eSIM to navigate your first week stress-free.
Days 1-2: Instant Connectivity & Initial Exploration
Your first priority upon landing at Changi Airport is getting online. You’ll need it to book a ride with Grab, let family know you’ve arrived, and navigate to your new home. While Changi offers free Wi-Fi, having your own mobile data is liberating.
This is where an eSIM shines. You can purchase and set it up before you even leave your home country. For iOS users, the process is incredibly simple: after purchase, just tap ‘Install’ on the Yoho Mobile app, and you’re guided through the system settings in under a minute—no QR codes needed. Android users can quickly scan a QR code. This gives you a temporary internet solution for expats in Singapore without the hassle of finding a physical store or signing a contract immediately.
With data sorted, you can confidently explore your new neighborhood, find the nearest supermarket, and start to feel at home. Before you proceed, it’s always a good idea to check if your device is compatible on the eSIM compatible devices list.
Days 3-4: Securing Your Financial and Transport Essentials
Once you have a temporary address, it’s time to tackle banking and transport. These are foundational steps for your Singapore expat digital setup.
Opening a Bank Account
Singapore’s main banks include DBS, OCBC, and UOB. To open an account as a foreigner, you’ll typically need your passport, your In-Principle Approval (IPA) letter for your work pass, and proof of address. Many banking apps and verification processes require a local number, which can be a classic chicken-and-egg problem. Your Yoho Mobile eSIM can act as a reliable data source while you get these formalities sorted. For more information, you can visit a major bank’s website, such as this guide from DBS Bank for newcomers.
Mastering Public Transport
Singapore’s public transport system is world-class. You’ll want to get an EZ-Link card or use a contactless card through the SimplyGo system for tapping in and out of the MRT and buses. Download apps like Citymapper or check the Land Transport Authority (LTA) website for journey planning. Ride-hailing apps like Grab and Gojek are also essential for getting around.
All this requires a stable internet connection. Don’t let data anxiety stop you from exploring. Explore our flexible data plans for Singapore and stay on the move.
Days 5-7: Building Your Digital Life in the Lion City
With connectivity, banking, and transport handled, you can focus on integrating into Singapore’s digital ecosystem.
Understanding SingPass
SingPass is Singapore’s National Digital Identity. It’s your gateway to a vast range of government and private sector services, from filing taxes to accessing healthcare records. You’ll typically be able to register for SingPass once your long-term pass (like an Employment Pass) is officially issued. It’s a critical tool for any resident, so familiarize yourself with it on the official SingPass website.
Choosing a Long-Term Mobile Plan
Your temporary eSIM is perfect for the initial setup phase. Once you’re more settled, you can explore long-term postpaid mobile plans from providers like Singtel, StarHub, or M1. These often require your official pass and proof of address. While you weigh your options, your Yoho Mobile plan keeps you connected. And if you’re worried about your short-term data running out unexpectedly, Yoho Care provides a safety net to ensure you’re never left offline during this crucial period.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1: What’s the best temporary mobile plan for an expat’s first week in Singapore?
An eSIM data plan is ideal. It offers flexibility without long-term contracts, can be activated instantly upon arrival, and provides enough data to handle essential tasks like navigation, messaging, and browsing. Yoho Mobile offers various plans tailored to short-term needs.
Q2: Can I open a Singapore bank account without a local phone number?
While some processes might be possible without a local number initially, most banks will require one for two-factor authentication (2FA) and communication. Using an eSIM for data allows you to manage the application process online while you sort out a long-term local number.
Q3: How do I get internet access immediately upon landing at Changi Airport?
The easiest way is to have an eSIM installed and ready before you land. Simply turn off airplane mode, and your phone will connect to the local network automatically. This bypasses the need to rely on airport Wi-Fi or queue for a physical SIM card.
Q4: Do I need a physical SIM card when moving to Singapore?
Not necessarily, especially in the beginning. An eSIM is a more modern and convenient solution that provides immediate data access. Many expats use an eSIM for data and later decide on a long-term plan, which could be another eSIM or a physical SIM, depending on their preference and device.
Conclusion
Your first week in Singapore is an adventure. By following this digital setup checklist, you can handle the essentials with confidence and ease. The key is to secure your connectivity before you’re overwhelmed with other tasks. An eSIM provides the freedom and flexibility you need to hit the ground running.
Ready to make your move to Singapore seamless? Get your Yoho Mobile Singapore eSIM today and tick ‘connectivity’ off your list before you even pack. For a risk-free start, you can even try our free eSIM trial!