Move to Singapore: 0% Capital Gains Tax, Low Income Tax
Singapore charges 0% capital gains tax and has one of the lowest effective income tax rates in Asia. With progressive rates topping out at 24% and a territorial system that exempts most foreign income, high earners and investors keep significantly more.
Tax Environment
Singapore uses a progressive income tax system with rates from 0% to 24%. The first $20,000 SGD is tax-free, then rates step up: 2% on $20,000–$30,000, 3.5% on $30,000–$40,000, 7% on $40,000–$80,000, 11.5% on $80,000–$120,000, 15% on $120,000–$160,000, 18% on $160,000–$200,000, 19% on $200,000–$240,000, 19.5% on $240,000–$280,000, 20% on $280,000–$320,000, and 22–24% above $320,000 SGD. The effective rate at $200,000 SGD income is approximately 15%.
There is no capital gains tax in Singapore. Profits from the sale of shares, property, crypto, and other investments are not taxed for individuals. This is one of the primary reasons investors and traders relocate here.
Singapore operates a territorial tax system. Foreign-sourced income is generally exempt from tax, even when remitted, provided it has already been taxed abroad. There is no inheritance tax, no estate duty, and no wealth tax.
Cost of Living
A mid-tier lifestyle in central Singapore. Costs can be lower in HDB areas or higher in districts like Orchard and Marina Bay.
| Category | Monthly Cost (USD) |
|---|---|
| Rent (1-bed apartment, city) | $2,500 |
| Food & groceries | $800 |
| Utilities (electricity, water, internet) | $200 |
| Transport (MRT, taxi, ride-hailing) | $150 |
| Total | $3,650 |
Visa Options
Min salary: $5,000 SGD/mo
For professionals, managers, and executives
Employer or self-sponsored through own company
For entrepreneurs starting a business in Singapore
Must be venture-backed or hold IP
Can sponsor dependants after 1 year
Min salary: $30,000 SGD/mo
For top talent in business, arts, sports, or academia
Allows working for multiple employers simultaneously
Min salary: $20,000 SGD/mo (previous or offered)
For tech founders, leaders, and specialists
Can start and operate businesses in Singapore
Estimated Annual Tax Savings
Approximate savings from relocating to Singapore, based on standard tax rates in each origin country.
| Moving From | Gross Income | Tax at Home | Tax in Singapore | Annual Savings |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Australia | $200k AUD | ~$78k | ~$30k | ~$48k/yr |
| United Kingdom | £150k GBP | ~£48k | ~£22k | ~£26k/yr |
| Canada | $200k CAD | ~$75k | ~$28k | ~$47k/yr |
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Open the calculator →Frequently Asked Questions
Does Singapore tax capital gains?
No. Singapore does not impose any capital gains tax. Profits from the sale of investments, property (with some exceptions for frequent trading), and crypto are not taxed. This applies to both residents and non-residents.
How does Singapore's progressive income tax work?
Singapore uses a progressive tax system ranging from 0% to 24%. The first $20,000 SGD is tax-free, with rates increasing gradually. The effective tax rate at $200,000 SGD income is approximately 15%, making it significantly lower than most developed countries.
Is foreign income taxed in Singapore?
Singapore operates a territorial tax system. Foreign-sourced income is generally not taxed even when remitted to Singapore, provided it has been subject to tax in the foreign jurisdiction. Income earned overseas and not brought into Singapore is fully exempt.
How much does it cost to live in Singapore?
A mid-tier lifestyle in Singapore costs approximately $3,650 per month, covering rent ($2,500 for a 1-bedroom in the city), food ($800), utilities ($200), and transport ($150). Total costs can range from $3,200 to $7,500 depending on lifestyle.