Expatriate to Singapore from Canada: tax guide 2026

2026 brackets: progressive but contained

Singapore raised the top marginal rate to 24% (above SGD 1M) in 2024. The first SGD 20,000 remains at 0%. The effective rate for SGD 200,000 income is about 11.5%. Compared to 45%+ income tax elsewhere, the advantage remains substantial for medium to high incomes.

0% capital gains: a structural advantage

Singapore doesn't tax capital gains — not on stocks, cryptocurrencies, or real estate (aside from stamp duty on purchase). It's one of the few developed nations maintaining this policy. Dividends from Singaporean companies benefit from the one-tier system: no double taxation.

Tax residency and EP/PEP status

• Employment Pass (EP): minimum salary SGD 5,600/month (raised in 2025). COMPASS points mandatory.
• Personalised Employment Pass (PEP): for salaries > SGD 22,500/month, more flexible.
• EntrePass: for innovative entrepreneurs, approved incubators, venture capital.
• Tax residency: 183 days/year in Singapore. SPR (Permanent Resident) status accessible after 2+ years on EP.

2026 Tips: common pitfalls

• CPF (Central Provident Fund): mandatory for SPRs (up to 20% employer + 20% employee). Foreign EP holders don't contribute — an often underestimated advantage.
• No treaty with the UAE: if structuring between Singapore and Dubai, watch out for dividend flows without a treaty.
• GST at 9% since 2024: Singapore's VAT went from 8 to 9%, impacting daily cost of living.
• Real estate: Additional Buyer's Stamp Duty (ABSD) of 60% for foreigners. Buying residential property in Singapore is deliberately dissuasive for non-permanent residents.