Novena
UrbanNovena is a planning area located within the Central Region of Singapore, known for its mix of residential, commercial, and medical facilities. It is a bustling hub that offers a variety of amenities and services to both residents and visitors. The area is characterized by its modern high-rise apartments, shopping malls, and the presence of several healthcare institutions, including Tan Tock Seng Hospital, one of Singapore's oldest and largest hospitals. Novena is also home to a number of religious sites, such as the Novena Church, which is a well-known Roman Catholic church that attracts many visitors, especially during its weekly Novena prayer sessions. The area is well-served by public transportation, with the Novena MRT station providing convenient access to other parts of Singapore. Shopping centers like United Square, Novena Square, and Square 2 cater to a range of shopping and dining preferences, making it a popular destination for families and young professionals. Despite its modern developments, Novena still retains pockets of greenery, with lush parks and recreational spaces offering residents a respite from the urban environment.
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SJB GlobalSJB-Global is a top-rated financial advisory firm specializing in expat financial advice worldwide, offering retirement planning & tax-efficient solutions with a regressive fee model. Our clients benefit from their country’s most favorable tax environment by utilizing the efficient investment vehicles we offer. Our commitment to quality service is reflected in our stellar reviews, with over 300 testimonials boasting 95% five-star ratings.
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Visa & Residency
Obtaining a residency in Singapore involves a systematic process that is managed by the Ministry of Manpower (MOM) for work visas and the and Checkpoints Authority (ICA) for other long-term visas. The most common types of residency visas for expatriates are the Employment Pass and the S Pass. The Employment Pass is for foreign professionals, managers, and executives who wish to work in Singapore. Candidates must earn at least SGD 4,500 a month and have acceptable qualifications, typically a good university degree, professional qualifications, or specialist skills. The S Pass is for mid-skilled technical staff with a monthly salary of at least SGD 2,500 and relevant qualifications and work experience. The application process for these passes generally requires the employer to apply on behalf of the prospective expatriate. The employer must demonstrate that the candidate possesses the necessary skills for the job and that the job could not be filled by a suitable local candidate. This is in line with the Fair Consideration Framework, which mandates that employers consider Singaporeans fairly for job opportunities before hiring expatriates. Once the application is submitted, it can take several weeks for the MOM to process it. If approved, the applicant will receive an In-Principle Approval (IPA) letter, which allows them to enter Singapore and arrange for the issuance of the actual pass. The final step involves a medical check-up and the submission of additional documents, such as the applicant's passport details and the IPA letter, to receive the pass. For non-working individuals, such as dependents of work visa holders or those seeking permanent residency, different visas such as the Dependant's Pass or Long-Term Visit Pass may be applicable. The process for these visas is also managed by the ICA and involves proving familial ties or the financial ability to support oneself. Overall, while the process is bureaucratic and requires various forms of documentation and compliance with local employment policies, it is considered efficient and transparent, making it an average challenge for expatriates seeking residency in Singapore.
Cost of Living
The cost of living in Novena is high, as it is situated in a prime area of Singapore with access to top-notch medical facilities, shopping centers, and well-maintained residential properties.
Weather
Novena experiences a tropical rainforest climate with high humidity and rainfall throughout the year, with temperatures that are consistently warm.
Healthcare in Novena
Novena is home to several reputable healthcare institutions, including Tan Tock Seng Hospital, which is one of Singapore's largest multi-disciplinary hospitals and offers a wide range of medical services. Additionally, Novena is known for its medical hub, Health City Novena, which aims to integrate healthcare services, medical education, and research facilities. This area also includes the National Neuroscience Institute and Mount Elizabeth Novena Hospital, a private healthcare facility known for its quality care and luxury amenities.
Schools in Novena
Novena is home to several international schools, including the San Yu Adventist School, which offers a Christian-based American curriculum, and the Italian Supplementary School, which caters to the Italian community in Singapore.