Canada Expat Forum

salik19
Joined 2016
Posts: 5

8 years ago

Moving from Singapore to Vancouver

8 years ago

Hi all, I am moving from Singapore to BC, Vancouver in about 2 months' time from now for work purposes in which I may be there for about 1 year (I already got a job there). As it is my first time going abroad for work, I feel that I am still at a lost somewhat and currently I am trying to research as many things as I can before reaching there. Even so, I still have a couple of questions or doubts, after looking online and I sincerely hope if anyone can answer to them. Anyway, please do bear with me should my questions sound 'stupid' or illogical...

1. I am intending to bring over about CND$4-5000, assuming that my rent may be 1.5k and after deduction of some expenses such as buying food etc, I may be left with 1-2k for the first month. Will that be enough? (I will be paid bi-weekly)

2. Prior to my question 1 above, how does the rent payment works? Do you pay it in monthly installments? Or do you need to pay in advance (in 3 or 6 months etc)

3. What would be the best banks to use once I am over there? It would be best if no minimum balance is required and I am looking at the option where I may need to transfer money internationally too. So far I am looking at CIBC where its plan seems decent (but I may need to drop by the bank and ask for more info once I am there) but any other bank options that you all may think it is good?

4. Which telcom lines should I pick up on? Initially I was thinking of getting a prepaid card, however it does not seems worthwhile as it cost is about the same as getting a monthly plan. (At least that is what my research is telling me) Then I am looking at getting Wind Smartphone Plan $35, as it includes a 2GB mobile data along with those sms etc.. Feasible?

So far, I can only think of the above but please do feel free to share if you think there are any other stuff that I should take note of?

Allianz Care

Flexible solutions allow you to tailor your cover to meet your needs and budget. Use Promocode: LIFE10 and get 10% off your international health insurance for life!
Get Quote

Allianz Care

Flexible solutions allow you to tailor your cover to meet your needs and budget. Use Promocode: LIFE10 and get 10% off your international health insurance for life!
Get Quote

Living in Canada Guide

Expats from all over Canada have shared great tips about living in Canada - Montreal, Vancouver, Calgary and Beyond. Find out what makes it easy, wha

Canada Forum
Join our Canada forum to meet other expats and talk about living in Canada.

Contribute
Help other expats and newcomers by answering questions about the challenges and adventures of living in Canada.

Best Places to Live in Canada

If you're considering a move to Canada, here are the 15 Best Places to Live in Canada in 2023.

245 Expats Talk about Healthcare & Health Insurance in Canada

Expats living in Canada talk about their own experiences with healthcare, hospital visits, emergencies, finding a doctor, buying health insurance in Canada and more.

Cost of Living in Canada

Expats offer insight into the cost of living in Canada.

Moving to Canada Guide

Our guide to moving to Canada with lots of advice from expats on the ground.

Real Estate in Canada

Real estate listings in popular cities and towns in Canada.

Pros & Cons of Living in Canada

Take off your rose-colored glasses and learn what expats have to say about the biggest challenges and the greatest rewards of living in Canada.

Retiring in Canada

Advice for people retiring in Canada.

10 Tips for Living in Canada

If you've recently arrived in Canada, here are 10 tips for digital nomads living in Canada.

Additional Information:

Visit our Canada Index for a Full List

Allianz Care

Flexible solutions allow you to tailor your cover to meet your needs and budget. Use Promocode: LIFE10 and get 10% off your international health insurance for life!
Get Quote

Allianz Care

Flexible solutions allow you to tailor your cover to meet your needs and budget. Use Promocode: LIFE10 and get 10% off your international health insurance for life!
Get Quote

Contribute
Help others in Canada by answering questions about the challenges and adventures of living in Canada.