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Singapore is a cosmopolitan city that provides a platform for global talents, ideas, funds and businesses to meet. Singapore's skilled workforce and strategic business location offers a globally connected, pro-business environment that helps boost and sustain growth and success across a range of industries. This unique blend of competitive strengths make Singapore the location of choice for global enterprises.
CPA Australia's Singapore division provides members with resources to help them maintain their competitive advantage, enjoy broader career opportunities, greater financial rewards and receive continued recognition as leaders in finance, accounting and business.
Local professional accounting bodies
CPA Australia played an important role in the establishment of Singapore's local professional body, the Institute of Certified Public Accountants of Singapore (ICPAS). ICPAS offers two levels of membership: practising and non-practising. CPA Australia members are eligible to apply for full membership of ICPAS if they have:
- completed CPA Program
- relevant work experience (three years post, or five years pre- and post-completion of CPA Program)
- completed the pre-admission course
- proficiency in local laws (two years' work experience in Singapore or Singapore tax and law examinations)
CPA Australia does not issue audit licenses in Singapore. For those interested in working as a practising accountant (principal / partner / practitioner), an audit license must be obtained from the Public Accountants Board, the local statutory board and regulatory body for public accountants.
The Monetary Authority of Singapore also recognises CPA Australia members who hold CPA status, with partial exemptions in the capital markets and financial advisory services examinations.
Singapore's business environment
Singapore is an attractive location for for multinational companies and small and medium enterprises to invest and grow their businesses, with many using Singapore as their regional hub and launch pad to the dynamic markets of Asia.
Singapore offers limitless possibilities to global citizens keen to apply their talents to the opportunities that can be found here. Indeed, a driven, well-qualified and dedicated global citizenry contributes to the dynamism of Singapore's economy and its vibrant quality of living.
Its dynamic economy is fueled by a genuinely open policy towards businesses, making it one of the most business-friendly countries today. It consistently ranks high on global and regional rankings for its attractive corporate tax rates, ease of hiring and well-developed infrastructure.
Employment opportunities
A growing number of multinationals have chosen Singapore as a base of regional operations as they look to further penetrate the south-east Asia market. Graduates who major in finance, accounting or business are recruited on a yearly basis. Most of the big 4 accounting firms conduct annual recruitment exercises for final year accounting students from overseas universities.
Working conditions and lifestyle
Singapore is a safe, modern city, where English is widely spoken. Transport is frequent and plentifu and locals are rightly proud of their twin obsessions: food and shopping. Professional foreign workers enjoy the high standard of living and the potential to earn high wages, coupled with low tax rates. The humidity and consistent weather are either a benefit or a detraction, depending on your personal opinion.
Work permits
Foreign professionals, managers, executives and entrepreneurs who wish to work in Singapore need to apply for a work pass. Information on work and related passes can be found on the Ministry of Manpower website.