Car Insurance for Foreigners & Expats in Singapore

Eligibility and Types of Car Insurance for Foreigners in Singapore

Foreigners in Singapore can buy car insurance just like Singapore citizens. Here’s who’s eligible and the kinds of policies available.

Who can buy car insurance in Singapore?

Generally, foreigners can buy car insurance in Singapore as long as the car is legally registered in Singapore and they hold a valid driving licence. This includes PRs and pass holders such as:

• Permanent Residents (PR)

• Employment Pass (EP) holders

• S Pass holders

• Student Pass holders

• Dependant’s Pass holders

• Long-Term Visit Pass (LTVP) holders

Every vehicle on Singapore roads must be insured at all times, so you’ll need cover in place before you drive.

Types of car insurance available to foreigners

Foreigners can choose from the same basic policy types as locals:

• Comprehensive: Covers damage to your vehicle, third-party damages, fire, theft, and often includes windscreen and flood coverage.

• Third Party Only (TPO): Covers liability for injury or death to others and damage to others’ property.

• Third Party, Fire and Theft (TPFT): TPO coverage plus protection if your car is stolen or damaged by fire.

Common add-ons include personal accident cover, loss of use, and roadside assistance.

Notable exclusions and restrictions

Foreigners can buy the same policies as locals, but a few factors can affect your cover or premium:

• Licence conversion: Foreigners who have lived in Singapore for more than 12 months must convert their foreign licence to a Singapore licence. New PRs must convert within 3 months of getting PR status.

• Higher premiums: Without a Singapore driving record or a transferable No Claim Discount (NCD), you may pay more than a local driver with a long claim-free history.

• Overseas NCD: Not every insurer recognises NCD earned abroad. Some, such as DirectAsia, may accept a letter from your previous insurer stating your period of insurance and claim-free years.

Car Insurance Providers for Foreigners: Comparison Table

Plans and features differ by provider. Here’s how the major insurers compare.

Product terms and promotions are subject to change, and your premium will depend on your driving history and profile. Always check the insurer’s official documentation before signing up.

For a deeper dive, see our guide to the latest car insurance plans in Singapore.

How to Apply for Car Insurance as a Foreigner in Singapore

Here’s how to get your car insured in Singapore as a foreigner, step by step.

Step 1: Gather and prepare all required documents

To avoid delays, have these ready:

• Valid driving licence

  • Singapore-issued licence, or a valid foreign licence if you’ve lived here for 12 months or less (see licence conversion above). Driving without a valid licence is an offence and could leave you without cover.

  • If your foreign licence isn’t in English, you’ll need an International Driving Permit (IDP) or an official English translation. ASEAN licence holders don’t need an IDP.

• Valid pass or PR status

  • Employment Pass, S Pass, Dependant’s Pass, Student Pass, Long-Term Visit Pass or PR, whichever is relevant.

• Vehicle registration details

  • Your car’s log card or registration details.

Insurers may also ask for other documents, such as your passport or proof of local address. Requirements are ultimately up to each insurer, so check what yours needs before you apply.

Step 2: Check regulatory and digital onboarding requirements

• Use your Singpass (Singapore’s digital identity platform) for digital submissions where available.

• Make sure your pass is valid. For example, Tiq by Etiqa covers foreigners holding a valid Work Pass, Student Pass, Dependant’s Pass or Long-Term Visit Pass.

Step 3: Get quotes and compare policies

• Compare plans online: Most major insurers offer online quote generators. Fill in your details truthfully, paying close attention to residency and licence questions.

• Offline options: You can also buy through an insurance agent or broker. Agents must be registered with the General Insurance Association (GIA), which you can check on the GIA website, while brokers are registered with MAS.

When comparing, check:

• Policy terms: Exclusions, excess and workshop options.

• NCD recognition: Whether the insurer will accept NCD you earned overseas.

Step 4: Apply and complete onboarding

• Choose your preferred insurer and begin your application—many support full digital onboarding (e.g., uploading scanned documents, signing electronically).

• Double-check that your details match your official documents, especially residency status and local address.

• Submit all required documents digitally or, if asked, in person.

Step 5: Receive your policy and update the authorities

• Once approved, you’ll receive your certificate of insurance or cover note. Download and keep a copy.

• Your insurer will send your policy details to LTA electronically, usually by the next working day. Your insurance must cover the full road tax period before you can renew your road tax.