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Overseas students in Singapore can choose from various rental options based on their budget and preferences. University halls of residence, private student hostels and co-living spaces provide affordable and convenient accommodations with shared or private rooms. For those seeking independent living, HDB flats (public housing) offer budget-friendly rentals, while private condominiums provide higher-end facilities like pools and gyms. Serviced apartments are ideal for short-term stays (less than 3 months), offering fully furnished units with housekeeping services. 

Each option varies in cost, amenities, and lease terms. WelcomeStay is designed to match you with your preferred accommodation, arrange virtual viewings, answer your enquiries and make bookings securely, offering you a seamless experience.

In Singapore, the minimum lease term depends on the type of property. For HDB flats (public housing), the minimum rental period is 6 months, while private residential properties, such as condominiums and landed houses, require a minimum lease of 3 months. These rules help regulate the rental market and ensure housing stability.

Short-term rentals (under 3 months) in private homes, including those listed on platforms like Airbnb, are not allowed unless the property is an approved serviced apartment or has a special license. Students looking for shorter stays should consider serviced apartments or university-affiliated housing, which may offer more flexible rental terms. Before signing a lease, it's essential to ensure it complies with Singapore’s rental regulations.

Yes, but only certain pass holders (e.g., Student Pass, Employment Pass and S Pass holders) can rent HDB flats. Short-term rentals under 6 months are not allowed.

Condominium rules include respecting by-laws, no illegal activities, proper use of facilities, and compliance with lease terms.

Yes, Singapore is widely regarded as one of the safest cities in the world. The streets are well-lit at night, public areas are extensively monitored with CCTV, and crime rate remains consistently low. Additionally, the property rental market is tightly regulated—both licensed property agents and accommodation providers (whether corporate entities or individuals) must comply with strict guidelines set by authorities. This ensures that tenants can rent accommodation securely and with peace of mind.

The cost of living varies depending on lifestyle, but on average, students should budget around SGD 1,000 to SGD 1,500 per month, which includes rent, food, transportation, and leisure activities.

Singapore has an excellent public transportation system, including buses, MRT (train or subway), and taxis. Most students use the MRT and buses for their daily commute. You can use an EZ-Link card to pay for rides.

Singapore has a tropical climate, meaning it is warm and humid year-round, with temperatures ranging from 25°C to 31°C (77°F to 88°F). It can rain frequently, so carrying an umbrella is a good idea.

- Shared Bedroom, Shared Bathroom: Share a bedroom with 2 or more room mates, while you get your own bed space.

- Single Bedroom, Shared Bathroom: Enjoy the privacy of having an entire bedroom to yourself.

- Single Bedroom with Attached Bathroom: Enjoy the privacy of having an entire bedroom and bathroom to yourself.

- Whole House: Rent an entire home to enjoy exclusive use of its amenities (bathroom, kitchen, laundry facilities, etc).

At WelcomeStay, we put you first. Tried, tested, and trusted by students before you, our platform personalizes your search based on the preferences and filters you choose. Proudly built and based in Singapore, we know the local rental market, communities, and regulations inside out—so your move to Singapore is smooth and stress-free.

Every accommodation on WelcomeStay is thoroughly verified, giving you peace of mind. In just a few clicks, you can safely connect with trusted landlords and secure your ideal home away from home.

WelcomeStay allows you to filter accommodation options based on factors such as location, budget, type of room, amenities, and proximity to public transport. Virtual viewings are readily available for you to have a look and feel of your selected accommodation, and further assistance is only a click away.

Simply hit the “Enquire” button that is available on every property page, and you will be connected to your dedicated customer support via WeChat or WhatsApp . Alternatively, you may reach out to us via any of our listed contact information.

You may have a 360° virtual tour of the accommodation directly from its dedicated page on WelcomeStay. If you prefer to have a physical viewing, feel free to reach out to our customer support by hitting the “Enquire” button available on every property page.

Once you have selected an accommodation, simply click the “Enquire” button on the property page. You will be prompted to register an account with us. After registering, our customer support will reach out to you via WeChat or WhatsApp to confirm availability and assist you with the contract and payment process.

It is recommended to book your accommodation as early as possible, at least 1-2 months before your arrival. This ensures better availability and more options.

WelcomeStay will recommend similar ones that match your preferences based on the filters that you have selected and saved.

Typically, you will need:

- Copy of your passport

- Student Pass* or In-principal Approval (IPA)

- Proof of admission (letter from your institution)

- Personal identification (if applicable)

*Note that you will require a valid Student Pass to sign a tenancy agreement.

To secure your booking, most accommodation providers will require a deposit, typically equivalent to one or more month’s rent.

Most accommodation providers accept payments by credit card or bank transfer.

Most accommodation providers will forfeit the booking deposit paid.

Verify the legitimacy of the accommodation provider, the property, and if applicable, the appointed property agent. Ensure that your personal details and the property's address are accurately stated. Carefully review key details such as the lease duration, rent amount, deposit terms, maintenance responsibilities, inventory list, and any other clauses outlined in the agreement.

While most terms in a tenancy agreement are standard, there is room for negotiation before signing. You may submit your requests in writing to the accommodation provider or the appointed property agent for consideration. However, any amendment must comply with Singapore's tenancy regulations, and both parties must mutually agree to the changes before they are included in the final agreement.

Upon signing the tenancy agreement, you will typically be required to pay one month's advance rent along with a security deposit equivalent to one month's rent per year of lease. These payments are usually made within 7 to 14 days of signing, and must be completed before your move-in date. Therefore, rent is collected monthly.

The rental price typically includes the use of the property, basic furnishing, utilities and internet. Check the tenancy agreement for specific terms.

Depending on the accommodation providers, some of them allow some negotiation on their rental prices based on market conditions, lease duration, and other terms.

We strive for transparency in our listings. Any additional fees (e.g. cleaning, service fees, or utilities) will be clearly outlined during the booking process, so there is no surprise.

Usually, the security deposit is one month's rent for every year's lease. It will be refunded after the lease ends, subject to deductions for damages or outstanding bills.

Monthly rent is typically paid via bank transfer or PayNow as agreed in the tenancy agreement.

No, the rent amount is fixed for the lease period. Rent adjustments can only happen upon renewal.

You may forfeit the security deposit or be liable to pay for the remaining rent.

No, landlords in Singapore generally cannot terminate the lease early without valid reason. Unless the tenancy agreement includes a specific termination clause or the tenant breaches the agreement, the landlord is obligated to honor the full lease term. Always review your tenancy agreement for any of such clauses.

The existing tenancy agreement typically continues to bind the tenant as well as the new owner, unless there is a clause allowing termination upon sale. In the case of a HDB flat, the tenancy agreement typically does not carry over to the new owner due to HDB regulations.

Subletting is only permitted with the landlord's prior written consent. You should also verify that the property's occupancy rules and regulations permit subletting.

Discuss with the landlord 2-3 months before lease expiry. If both parties agree, a new tenancy agreement is signed.

The move-in date is typically the day your rental period starts, as outlined in the tenancy agreement. If you need to arrive earlier or later, check with the accommodation provider to see if flexibility is available.

Bring personal items such as clothing, toiletries, and electronics. Most accommodation will already provide basic furniture and appliances. Check with your accommodation provider for any additional items you may need to bring.

Typically, a 2-month notice period is required, but check your tenancy agreement for specific terms.

You should notify the accommodation provider in advance of your move-out date. Be sure to follow the move-out procedures, which usually include reinstating the space, cleaning and returning keys. Your deposit will be refunded after inspection of the accommodation.

Amenities vary by accommodation, but typically include basic furnishing (bed, wardrobe, desk), WiFi, air-conditioning and laundry facilities. Co-living apartments and condominiums usually offer gym and pool access, study rooms and other common areas as well.

Typically aircon maintenance is included in rooms rentals, but not whole unit rentals. 

Yes, most of the accommodation listed are fully furnished, but do confirm with the accommodation provider or appointed agent for specific details regarding the furnishings.

Visitors are generally not permitted; if allowed, it is only during designated visiting hours, and you must strictly adhere to the property's rules.

Pets are typically not allowed. They are only allowed if stated in the tenancy agreement and permitted by the condominium management or HDB rules.

Yes, most accommodations provide locks for your room for added security. Ensure you lock your room and store valuable items in a secure place when you are not around.

The landlord handles major repairs. Tenants are responsible for minor repairs, often up to a certain limit. Check your tenancy agreement for specific terms.

Inform the landlord or managing agent immediately.

House rules vary by accommodation but typically include guidelines on noise levels, cleanliness, security, and use of common areas. Always respect the rules of the property to ensure a smooth stay.

No modification is allowed without the landlord’s written consent.

The landlord ensures the unit is pest-free before handover. Ongoing pest control during the lease is usually the tenant’s responsibility.

While cleaning services are commonly provided by co-living providers, landlords of condominiums and HDB flats usually exclude such services. Tenants may, however, arrange for cleaning services independently.

Yes, some accommodation providers offer additional services such as cleaning or laundry for an extra fee. It is recommended to discuss your specific requirements with your accommodation provider before signing the tenancy agreement to ensure availability and pricing.

If you encounter an issue with your accommodation, please contact your accommodation provider promptly. They will have provided contact details, including emergency numbers, to ensure any problem is addressed as quickly as possible.

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