Mastering Telecoms at the heart of the Smart Nation
From ultra-fast fibre optic broadband to ubiquitous 5G coverage, discover how Singapore is redefining global connectivity and how to optimise your plans as a French-speaking expat.
1st
Worldwide (Fixed Broadband Speed)
99%
5G Coverage
~250 Mbps
Mobile Average
156%
Mobile Penetration Rate
Infrastructure at the Cutting Edge of Innovation
In 2026, Singapore continues to top the Ookla Speedtest Global Index. The city-state is not merely a financial hub; it is Southeast Asia's digital nervous system. With massive investment in undersea cables and domestic infrastructure based entirely on fibre optics, residents benefit from fixed speeds often exceeding 2 Gbps on consumer plans.
This performance is not limited to wired connections. The mobile network has begun its transition towards experimental 6G in certain research centres, while 5G Standalone (SA) has become the absolute standard, offering near-zero latency essential for telemedicine services and autonomous vehicles that now operate in certain districts such as Jurong Lake District.
For French-speaking expats accustomed to European networks, the experience is often a positive shock: network stability is exemplary, even deep underground on the Mass Rapid Transit (MRT) or at the top of the skyscrapers in Marina Bay.
Pure Speed
Recent tests show peaks of 10 Gbps for premium home connections.
Connectivity
More than 25 international undersea cables converge here.
The Mobile Market: A Competitive Ecosystem
With four major operators and a host of virtual operators (MVNOs), there is plenty of choice and prices are extremely competitive.
Singtel
The Historic Leader
Representing the sector's economic power with revenue running into billions of dollars, Singtel offers the best domestic and international coverage. It is the preferred choice for those who want no compromise on reception quality, even if prices are slightly higher.
- 5G SA
- Premium Roaming
- Multi-device
StarHub
"The ultimate integrator, combining television entertainment with mobile broadband."
Ideal for families looking for bundled plans (Home + Mobile + TV).
View family plansM1
The pioneer of personalisation. Its "Bespoke" plans allow you to adjust data and minutes every month via an intuitive app.
SIMBA (formerly TPG)
The price breaker. Offers huge data allowances (often 100 GB+) for next to nothing (around 10 SGD). Excellent for those on a tight budget.
MVNOs (Giga, Gomo, Circles.Life)
These virtual operators use the "Big 3" networks but offer 100% digital interfaces, no-contract plans and ultra-aggressive prices for young professionals.
2026 Telecoms Budget Simulator
Estimate your monthly cost based on your connectivity needs in Singapore.
Monthly Estimate
Approximately 62 € / month
Based on average prices observed in January 2026. Includes 9% GST.
Cost Analysis: Singapore vs France
Telecommunications costs in Singapore are remarkably low compared with local purchasing power. In 2026, according to the International Telecommunication Union, a standard mobile plan costs around 0.4% of average gross monthly income, compared with 0.8% in France.
Near-unlimited mobile data
100 GB plans are standard for under 25 SGD.
Fibre installation within 48 hours
As the network is already deployed everywhere, activation is quick.
Price Trends (2020–2026)
Note: Although prices are falling, per-capita data consumption has soared with the widespread adoption of 4K streaming video and ubiquitous cloud services. See our guide to the overall cost of living in Singapore for more details.
Practical Installation Guide
Choosing Your SIM Card
As soon as you arrive at Changi Airport, you can buy a prepaid SIM card. However, for a long-term setup, opt for no-contract "SIM Only" plans.
- • Documents: Passport or FIN (Work Pass)
- • Age: Minimum 18 years old
- • Portability: Free and automatic from a previous local number
Installing Fibre
Once you have found your home, contact a provider. Most flats (HDB or condos) are already pre-wired.
- • Timescale: 3 to 7 working days
- • Equipment: ONT (Optical Network Terminal) provided
- • Router: Included, or buy your own for greater control
Singpass & Digitalisation
Your telephone number is your main identifier for Singpass, the essential digital identity app for all your administrative procedures.
International Calls & Roaming
As Singapore is a cosmopolitan city, international calls are straightforward. Singapore's international dialling code is +65.
To call Europe, use VoIP prefixes (such as Singtel's 019 or StarHub's 008) to significantly reduce costs compared with the standard 001.
Quick dialling codes:
- To France: +33...
- To Belgium: +32...
- To Switzerland: +41...
- To Canada: +1...
Did you know? Most local plans now include free "Roaming" in Malaysia, Indonesia and sometimes Thailand.
A touch of nostalgia: Public phone booths
Although rare in 2026, Singapore still has a few public phone booths, mainly in historic areas and near migrant workers' dormitories. They work with prepaid cards or coins (10, 20 and 50 cents). They are a charming relic in an otherwise hyper-connected city, and useful if your smartphone battery runs out completely.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I keep my French number in Singapore?
Technically, yes, via roaming, but it will cost you extremely dearly. You are strongly advised to get a local SIM and use WhatsApp or Telegram to stay in touch with your loved ones in France.
Does 5G work everywhere?
Yes, Singapore has achieved 99% population coverage. Even in MRT tunnels, you will benefit from an ultra-fast connection.
Which is the best operator for expats?
If you travel frequently in Asia, Singtel or StarHub have excellent roaming options. For purely local and budget use, Circles.Life or Giga are unbeatable.
Can an Internet contract be cancelled easily?
Contracts with a commitment period (12 or 24 months) have early termination fees. If you are unsure how long you will stay, opt for no-contract plans, although they are slightly more expensive per month.
Is free public Wi-Fi available?
Yes, the Wireless@SGx network is available free of charge in most public places (shopping centres, libraries and stations). You only need to set up your profile once.
What documents are needed for a postpaid plan?
You will need your passport and work permit (EP, Spass, Dependant Pass). Proof of address (tenancy agreement or electricity bill) may sometimes be requested.
Is television included in Internet plans?
Generally, yes, in the form of apps (StarHub TV+ or Singtel TV Go). National channels (MediaCorp) are free, while international channels (sports, news) are optional.
Can I use my own Wi-Fi router?
Absolutely. Most expats prefer to buy Mesh systems (Google Wifi, Netgear) to effectively cover large concrete flats, which often block signals.
What is an eSIM and is it available?
eSIMs are widely adopted in Singapore. All major operators and MVNOs offer them, allowing you to activate a line in just a few minutes via a QR Code.
Do prices include GST?
In 2026, the Goods and Services Tax (GST) is 9%. Always check whether the displayed price is "GST inclusive" or not.
Emergency Numbers in Singapore
Save them in your phone now.
Police
999
Ambulance / Fire Brigade
995
Ambulance (Non-Emergency)
1777
Ready for your new connected life?
Settling in Singapore is made easier by an exemplary digital ecosystem. Continue exploring with our dedicated guides.