By the WahLiao desk · Last verified 29 September 2026
If you are moving to Singapore, Singapore Customs can waive GST on your used household goods and personal effects. You must be transferring your home to Singapore, own the items, have used them for at least three months, import them within six months of first arriving, and not sell or give them away for three months after. Cars, alcohol and tobacco are never covered.
Without the relief, GST applies to the value of everything you ship, so the conditions are worth getting right. Most removal companies handle the paperwork, but the six-month clock is yours to watch.
GST relief on your belongings: quick facts
| Who qualifies | Foreigners relocating to Singapore, and citizens or permanent residents returning to live here |
| Ownership and use | You own the items and have used them for at least 3 months |
| Deadline | Import within 6 months of your first arrival |
| After arrival | Do not sell, give away or dispose of them for 3 months |
| Never covered | Motor vehicles, alcohol and tobacco; these attract duty and GST |
| Hand-carried goods | Apply at least 5 working days before you arrive |
The WahLiao Verdict
| Cost | No GST on qualifying used goods; full GST on anything that does not qualify. |
| The clock | Six months from your first arrival, not from when your pass is issued. |
| The trap | New items bought for the move, which do not qualify. |
| Worth doing | Using a removal company that handles Singapore Customs permits. |
| Plan separately | Cars, which need LTA approval, and alcohol, which is taxed. |
The conditions
Singapore Customs may grant GST relief on used household articles and personal effects if you satisfy it that you are moving your place of residence from outside Singapore; you own the items; you have used and had them for at least three months; you will not sell, give away or dispose of them within three months of arrival; and the household items, personal belongings and personal pets are imported within six months of your first arrival. Relief is assessed case by case.
Shipped separately
If your belongings arrive separately from you, by sea or air freight, your appointed agent applies for a GST relief permit and collects the shipment once it is approved. You will need your passport and proof that you are moving here, such as your Employment Pass or Dependant’s Pass.
Carried with you
If used household items or personal effects travel on the same flight or ship as you, apply for GST relief through Singapore Customs’ online form at least five working days before you arrive, with the supporting documents.
What is not covered
Motor vehicles, alcohol and tobacco do not qualify for relief; they attract duty and GST, and vehicles also need approval from the Land Transport Authority. New goods do not qualify either. Some items, including chewing gum and e-cigarettes, cannot be imported at all.
Shipping: FAQ
Do I pay GST on my household goods when moving to Singapore?
Not if you qualify for GST relief: used items you have owned for at least three months, imported within six months of your first arrival, and kept for three months after.
Can I bring my car to Singapore?
Cars are not covered by GST relief, attract duty and GST, and need LTA approval. It is rarely worth it.
Can I ship wine in my household goods?
Yes, but alcohol always attracts duty and GST, and needs a permit.
What happens if my shipment arrives after six months?
It does not qualify for relief, and GST applies to its value.
Read next
This page belongs to Moving to Singapore. Bringing a pet? Read the AVS import rules. For the travellers’ allowances on your first flight in, see duty-free allowances.
Sources checked 29 September 2026: Singapore Customs, moving to Singapore (updated 11 June 2026); Singapore Customs, do I qualify for GST relief; Singapore Customs, bringing used items with you. Last updated 29 September 2026.
