Essential Services in Singapore: Stay Connected Stress-Free
From opening your bank account to setting up 10Gbps fibre, take control of the city-state’s digital and administrative ecosystem.
Official partners and regulatory authorities
A World-Class Digital Hub
Singapore regularly ranks among the world’s most connected nations. For expats, this means fast services, but also a highly competitive landscape.
Total Connectivity
In 2026, 5G-Advanced covers 99% of the country, while home fibre now standardises 2.5Gbps and 10Gbps connections for hybrid working.
This is Singpass’s adoption rate, the single digital identity essential for managing your water, electricity and telecoms bills.
Find out more about Singpass →Liberalisation
The electricity market (OEM) lets you choose your supplier, breaking the historic monopoly and reducing your bills by 20 to 30%.
Smart Payments
Say goodbye to cheques. 100% of essential services support GIRO and PayNow, enabling complete automation of your monthly expenses.
Public Utilities: Water, Gas, Electricity
In Singapore, public utilities infrastructure is centrally managed for connection, but competitive when it comes to consumption. The central provider is SP Group (Singapore Power).
Opening the single account
As soon as you sign the lease for your home in Singapore, you must open an SP Services account. By default, this account manages your water and gas (via City Energy), as well as your electricity.
The Open Electricity Market (OEM)
Once your SP account is activated, you are free to stay on SP Group’s regulated tariff or switch to a private supplier (Keppel Electric, Geneco, Sembcorp) for fixed rates or discounts on the regulated tariff.
Documents required for registration:
- ✔ NRIC or FIN (work visa)
- ✔ Signed tenancy agreement
- ✔ Photos of your meters (if moving house)
- ✔ Security deposit (250$ to 800$ depending on your profile)
💡 Pro Tip
Use the SP Utilities mobile app. It lets you track your consumption in real time and compare your carbon footprint with the average for your neighbourhood. In Singapore, water conservation is a national priority.
"Waste management is included directly in your monthly SP Group bill, simplifying the process for you."
Home Internet: Fibre Optic Everywhere
Singapore has one of the world’s highest average download speeds. Your choice of provider will depend on your need for stability and your budget.
The incumbent provider. Ideal for "all-in-one" bundles (Internet + TV + Mobile).
- • Premium customer service
- • Wide choice of TV channels
- • Higher price
The direct competitor. Particularly strong on entertainment and streaming content (Disney+, Netflix).
- • Integrated TV box
- • Attractive bundled plans
- • Good mobile network
The choice for gamers and intensive remote working. Excellent latency.
- • Optimised routing
- • No contract (options)
- • 100% digital focus
Premium niche provider. Enhanced security and high-quality international routing.
- • Network firewall included
- • Responsive technical support
- • Ideal for always-on VPN use
What you need to know before signing up
Most fibre contracts in Singapore tie you in for 24 months. If you move before the contract ends, the fees can be high. For a shorter or uncertain stay, opt for MyRepublic’s "No Contract" plans or sub-brands such as Giga!.
Make sure your flat has an active optical fibre outlet (TP Terminal).
2026 Services Budget Simulator
Estimate your monthly costs for energy, water and telecoms based on your profile.
*Based on average market rates in 2026.
Mobile Phone Services: The 5G Standalone Era
Singapore is a paradise for smartphone users. In 2026, competition between mobile network operators (MNOs) and virtual mobile network operators (MVNOs) has made prices extremely competitive.
SIM-Only
The standard today. No contract, low prices (10-30 SGD), often with 100 GB+ of data.
Instant eSIM
No need to wait for the post. Download your eSIM profile within minutes using the operator's app.
Key players:
Tip: If you often call abroad, CMLink or Simba offer plans including international minutes to France and other European countries.
Banking Services: Asia's Financial Heart
Opening an account is the crucial first step to linking your essential services through the GIRO system.
DBS / POSB
"The world's best digital bank". Ideal for expats thanks to its highly intuitive app and extensive ATM network.
Discover DBS Multiplying →UOB
Excellent for discounts on local spending and cashback credit cards. Very strong for family accounts.
See UOB One Account →OCBC
Known for its OCBC 360 account, which offers high interest rates based on your salary and bill payments.
Calculate OCBC 360 interest →The rise of 100% digital banks
In 2026, players such as Trust Bank, GXS Bank and MariBank have shaken up the market. They often offer daily interest rates and account opening in under 3 minutes via Singpass.
Typical account opening requirements:
-
1
Passport & Employment Pass (EP): Originals are often required for an initial verification.
-
2
Proof of address: A phone bill, tenancy agreement or letter from your employer.
-
3
Local phone number: Essential for two-factor authentication (2FA).
Services Summary: Activation Times and Costs
| Service | Recommended Provider | Activation Time | Estimated Cost / month | Requirement |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Electricity | Geneco / Senoko | ~3 days | 70$ - 150$ | SP Group deposit required |
| Internet Fibre | Singtel / MyRepublic | 7-14 days | 45$ - 80$ | 24-month contract |
| Mobile (SIM Only) | Giga! / Gomo | Instant (eSIM) | 15$ - 30$ | None |
| Bank | DBS / Trust Bank | 1 day | 0$ (maintenance fee) | Minimum balance required |
Frequently Asked Questions about Services
Do I have to pay a deposit for electricity?
Yes, SP Group requires a security deposit, which depends on your status (foreigner or local) and the type of accommodation. It is refunded when the account is closed.
How can I pay my bills automatically?
GIRO (direct debit) is the most common system. You can activate it directly through your Singaporean banking app.
Does cable TV still exist?
It has largely been replaced by IPTV (Singtel TV, StarHub TV+) and streaming services. Most fibre packages include an Android TV box.
What is the actual speed of 10Gbps fibre?
It is a shared speed. To make full use of it, your devices must be compatible (10G Ethernet port), and you will need a Wi-Fi 7 router.
Can I keep my foreign mobile number?
No, a Singaporean (+65) number is required for local services and Singpass. However, you can use a dual-SIM phone.
Is tap water safe to drink?
Absolutely. Singapore has some of the purest water in the world thanks to an ultra-modern filtration system (NEWater).
What should I do in the event of a power cut?
Power cuts are extremely rare in Singapore. If one occurs, contact SP Group's 24/7 emergency service on 1800-778-8888.
How can I cancel my services before leaving?
Allow 30 days' notice for fibre. SP Group services can be disconnected within 24 hours via the app. See our guide to returning to France.
Ready to move in with peace of mind?
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