Personal Tax

Resident individuals are taxed on a progressive tax rate basis starting at 0% and ending at 22% above S$320,000. Employment income for non-resident individuals are taxed at 15% or the progressive tax rates, whichever results in a higher tax amount. Learn more: Income tax rates

Generally, overseas income received in Singapore on or after 1 Jan 2004 is not taxable and does not need to be declared. This includes overseas income paid into a Singapore bank account. However, it will be taxable if income is received through partnerships in Singapore or if your overseas employment is incidental to your Singapore employment i.e. your work overseas is part of your work here.

CPF contributions are not allowed for foreigners. Both the employer’s and employee’s contributions for foreign employees on Employment Pass, Professional Visit Pass or Work Permit will be rejected.

E-file: 18 April

The following types of dividends are exempt from taxation in Singapore:

• Dividends from Singapore companies to its shareholders.
• Foreign dividends received in Singapore. This excludes foreign source income received through partnerships in Singapore.
• Income distributions from unit trusts and real estate investment trusts (REIT), that are authorised under Section 286 of the Securities and Futures Act (excludes distributions out of franked dividends).

Besides salaries and bonuses, employment benefits, including housing and stock options, will be part of the taxable employment income.
Overseas income obtained outside Singapore, Singapore dividends and bank interests are considered tax-exempt in Singapore.

To understand all your personal tax obligations, it can be helpful to enlist the services of a qualified tax professional with expertise in personal taxation in Singapore.

If you are physically present or exercise employment in Singapore for not more than 183 days, you will be considered as a non-resident.