Asia

Singapore

Singapore's Work Holiday Programme is narrow: 6 months, full-time university students or recent grads only, ages 18-25. Common base for an Asia trip due to safety and English.

Currency

SGD

1 AUD = 0.89 SGD (mid-market, 2026-05-21)

Cost of living

105% of Sydney

Working Holiday Visa for Australians

Work Holiday Programme

Age 18-25 (university students only) | up to 6 months

Smartraveller

Check live advisory

Emergency: 999

Working Holiday Visa

Scheme: Work Holiday Programme
Visa class: Work Holiday Pass
Eligible age: 18-25 (university students only)
Max stay: 6 months

Source: www.mom.gov.sg

Tourist or short-stay entry

Visa-free entry

Up to 3 months. Work rights: none.

Australians can enter Singapore visa-free for up to 90 days.

Source: www.ica.gov.sg

Highlights

One of the safest cities in the world; low crime, clean and efficient.
English is an official language; navigation is easy.
Hawker centres serve excellent meals from AUD 5; bookended by Michelin-starred dining.
Changi Airport is an Asia hub; cheap onward flights everywhere.

Watch outs

Strict laws (chewing gum, vaping, drugs, jaywalking); penalties are severe.
WHP is restricted to university students; many recent grads do not qualify.
Alcohol is expensive (heavy duty); beers in bars start at AUD 12-15.
Humidity is intense year-round; afternoon rain is daily May-November.

Money tips

DBS, OCBC and UOB open accounts on the spot with a valid pass.
EZ-Link card covers MRT, buses and 7-Eleven.
Tipping is not customary; 10% service charge is automatic in restaurants.
GST is 9% and visible on the bill.

Typical costs (AUD)

Hostel bed per night: $45
Budget meal: $8
Mid-range meal: $22
Beer (bar): $12
Public transport day pass: $7

Indicative only. Tourist-zone prices are usually 50-100% higher than local prices.

Practical basics

Power plug: Type G
Drives on: Left (same as AU)
Emergency number: 999

Sources

Last updated 2026-05-21.