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Singapore

Apartment for Rent Singapore Short Term Laws in Singapore

Apartment for Rent Singapore Short Term Laws in Singapore

Singapore

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Introduction

Introduction to Apartment for Rent Singapore Short Term in Singapore

Singapore, a vibrant city-state known for its seamless blend of modernity and tradition, offers countless reasons to visit, from its iconic

Overview

Singapore, a vibrant city-state known for its seamless blend of modernity and tradition, offers countless reasons to visit, from its iconic

Property

Overview

The

Property

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short term rentals

What is Apartment for Rent Singapore Short Term in Singapore?

What are short Term Rentals in the Country?

Short-term rentals refers to the use of residential properties, such as condominiums, flats, bungalows, or terrace houses, for accommodation lasting less than three consecutive months. This often includes stays by short-term visitors, such as tourists, for a few days. However, Short-term rentals is illegal in Singapore under the law, as all residential properties are designated for long-term residence. Therefore, this write up will focus on a form of short term rental type popularly known as serviced apartments in Singapore.

Serviced Apartments (SAs) are fully equipped self-contained apartments featuring kitchenettes or full kitchens. They typically offer additional support services like concierge assistance, shared dining spaces, housekeeping, and laundry facilities for guests.

Is Subletting Legal?

Is Subletting Legal in Singapore?

In Singapore, subletting short-term rentals is illegal for both property owners and tenants. However the type of rental operated in Singapore is serviced apartment and the exception for subletting it is only possible when the entire property is rented by the tenant and also if necessary permissions are obtained from URA and the landlord and its operations meet all the requirements set out for SAs, including size, zoning, and communal facility standards.

National Association for STR Owners

What is the maximum length of stay in Singapore?

What is the maximum length of stay?

There is

Is there any National Registration Requirement or Permit?

To operate a serviced apartment in Singapore, planning permission must be obtained from the Urban Redevelopment Authority (URA). The process involves several steps, as outlined below:

Is there a need for Permission from Landlord/Local Council/Neighbors?

Hosts must obtain approval from the

Is Short-term rental Income taxable?

Income earned from serviced apartments in Singapore is subject to

Is there any National Tourism Fund or Tourist Tax?

There is no specific mention of a requirement for hosts in Singapore to contribute to national tourism boards or funds, nor is there an indication that they are mandated to collect taxes directly from guests for serviced apartments

However, hosts are advised to be aware of their tax obligations as income earned from hosting is generally considered taxable.

Is there any Guest Registration and Reporting Requirement?

Yes, there is a guest registration requirement, operators of serviced apartments in Singapore under the

Is there any National Health and Safety Requirements?

Serviced apartments in Singapore must meet strict health and safety standards covering building safety, fire safety, public health, and operational requirements.

Is there any Platform Accountability Requirement?

Online platforms like Airbnb must ensure serviced apartment listings comply with Singapore's laws. They implement measures to help hosts align with regulations, including:

Is there any Anti-Discrimination Law?

In Singapore, anti-discrimination laws relevant to serviced apartments are enforced through broader legal frameworks rather than specific regulations.

Is there any Data Sharing Requirements?

OTAs and listing platforms such as Airbnb are not explicitly required to share data regarding listings with the Singapore government

Is there any National Insurance Requirement?

Hosts of serviced apartments in Singapore are

Is there any National Zoning law/Cultural Heritage law?

In Singapore, culturally and historically significant areas are protected from unsuitable developments, including serviced apartments, through strict regulations:

Is there any Environmental Regulations that affects STR?

In Singapore, no additional regulations are specifically imposed on serviced apartments during national events or holidays. However, operators must adhere to existing laws and guidelines that may indirectly affect operations:

Is there any National Tenant Protection Law?

In Singapore, tenant protections against eviction for serviced apartment purposes are primarily governed by the

Is there any Reporting Requirements for Foreigners?

In Singapore, serviced apartments and hotels must collect and maintain guest information but are not required to report it directly to immigration authorities unless requested.

Is there any Digital Platform Regulation Compliance?

Platforms like Airbnb must ensure compliance with Singapore's national regulations before listing serviced apartments. Key measures include:

Is there any Consumer Protection Law that affect STR?

In Singapore, the

Is there any Law that applies to Non-resident Owners?

Non-resident owners of serviced apartments in Singapore are subject to specific regulations and taxes:

Is there any classification of STR in the country?

Yes, serviced apartments in Singapore are typically classified based on the following factors:

Are there Special National Event Regulations?

In Singapore, no additional regulations are specifically imposed on serviced apartments during national events or holidays. However, operators must adhere to existing laws and guidelines that may indirectly affect operations:

Is there any Penalty for Violating National Rules?

In Singapore, the penalties for non-compliance with regulations on serviced apartments, such as renting without a permit or offering short-term stays, are as follows:

Are there National Rules or Regulations Governing Short-Term Rentals in Singapore?

Are there National Rules or Regulations Governing Short-Term Rentals in the Country?

In Singapore, serviced apartments are subject to stringent health and safety standards to ensure the well-being of guests and residents. These standards encompass various aspects, including building safety, fire safety, public health, and operational guidelines.

1. Building and Fire Safety:

Building Regulations: Serviced apartments must comply with the Building Control Act, which mandates adherence to structural safety, accessibility, and maintenance standards.
Fire Safety: The Fire Safety Act requires the implementation of fire safety measures, such as installing fire alarms, extinguishers, and clear evacuation routes. Regular fire drills and inspections by the Singapore Civil Defence Force (SCDF) are also mandated.

2. Public Health and Hygiene:

Environmental Public Health Act: This act enforces standards related to sanitation, waste management, and pest control to maintain a hygienic environment within serviced apartments.
Infectious Disease Control: Operators must adhere to guidelines set by the Ministry of Health (MOH) for preventing and managing infectious diseases, including protocols for cleaning, disinfection, and handling health emergencies.

3. Operational Standards:

Licensing Requirements: Serviced apartments operating as lodging facilities are required to obtain a license from the Hotels Licensing Board (HLB) and comply with the Hotels Act and Hotels Licensing Regulations. This includes maintaining a guest register and reporting guest information to national authorities when necessary.
Workplace Safety and Health: The Workplace Safety and Health Act mandates that operators ensure a safe environment for both staff and guests, covering aspects like hazard management and emergency preparedness.

4. Industry Best Practices:

Serviced Apartments Association (SAA): While not a regulatory body, the SAA promotes best practices among its members, focusing on service quality, safety, and operational excellence. Membership requires adherence to specific operating standards, providing an additional layer of assurance to guests.

By complying with these regulations and guidelines, serviced apartment operators in Singapore ensure a safe, healthy, and comfortable environment for all occupants.

The nationwide sustainability requirements for serviced apartments in Singapore align with the Singapore Green Plan 2030, focusing on sustainable development goals for buildings and energy use. The following key aspects are relevant:

Key Sustainability Requirements for Serviced Apartments:

Green Building Standards:

Serviced apartments are required to meet the Singapore Green Building Masterplan standards, which aim to:
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  - Increase energy efficiency in buildings.  - Utilize environmentally friendly construction materials.
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- Achieve high Green Mark ratings for buildings.

Energy Efficiency:
- Emphasis on cleaner energy usage and increased energy efficiency to lower the carbon footprint.
- Encouragement for the adoption of renewable energy solutions, such as solar panels.
Waste Reduction:
- Targets a 30% reduction of waste sent to landfills by 2030, promoting recycling and sustainable waste management practices in serviced apartments.
Carbon Emissions Reduction:
- Encourage steps toward achieving net-zero carbon emissions by adopting energy-efficient systems and implementing eco-friendly building designs.
Public-Private Collaboration:
- Collaboration between government, businesses, and individuals to co-create and implement sustainable solutions in the serviced apartment sector.
Support for Green Initiatives:
- Access to funding such as the SG Eco Fund to support community-led sustainability projects.
Monitoring and Updates:
- Regular refinement of strategies based on technological advancements and engagement with stakeholders.

For more information on sustainability initiatives in Singapore, visit:

Is there any National Tax that affects short-term rental?

In Singapore, income earned from serviced apartments is subject to national taxes such as Income Tax and Goods and Services Tax (GST) if applicable. Below is a summary of the applicable taxes, exemptions, and filing details:

Applicable Taxes

Income Tax:
- Resident Individuals: Income derived from serviced apartments is taxable at progressive rates ranging from 0% to 24%, depending on the taxable income.
- Non-Resident Individuals: Taxed at a flat rate of 24% without personal reliefs or deductions. Employment income for non-residents is taxed at the higher of a 15% flat rate or the progressive resident rates with personal reliefs.
- Income earned overseas is taxable only if it is received in Singapore through a partnership.
Goods and Services Tax (GST):
- If the host's annual taxable turnover exceeds SGD 1 million, they are required to register for GST and charge 8% GST on services provided (as of 2024, with an increase to 9% in 2025).

Tax Exemptions

Income Thresholds:
- Resident individuals earning up to SGD 20,000 annually are exempt from income tax due to the progressive tax structure.
- GST registration is not required for businesses with taxable turnover below SGD 1 million.
Personal Reliefs:
- Available for resident individuals, which can reduce taxable income and apply only to progressive income tax rates.

Progressive Taxation

Income tax for residents is progressive:
- Example: An income of SGD 120,000 in 2024 incurs tax based on graduated rates, with different portions taxed at rates from 0% to 15%.
- A tax rebate of 50% of tax payable, capped at SGD 200, is applicable for 2024.

Filing Deadlines

Income Tax:
- For individuals: File by April 15 (paper filing) or April 18 (e-filing) for the preceding calendar year's income.
- Taxes are assessed in the Year of Assessment (YA) following the income year (e.g., YA 2024 for income earned in 2023).
GST:
- For GST-registered hosts, filing is required quarterly via the IRAS (Inland Revenue Authority of Singapore).

There is no specific mention of a requirement for hosts in Singapore to contribute to national tourism boards or funds, nor is there an indication that they are mandated to collect taxes directly from guests for serviced apartments

However, hosts are advised to be aware of their tax obligations as income earned from hosting is generally considered taxable

permits, license

Are there any Permits, Licenses, or Registrations for Apartment for Rent Singapore Short Term in Singapore?

Are there any Permits, Licenses, or Registrations for Short-term Rentals in the Country?

To operate a serviced apartment in Singapore, planning permission must be obtained from the Urban Redevelopment Authority (URA). The process involves several steps, as outlined below:

Is there any National Association for Apartment for Rent Singapore Short Term owners in Singapore?

Is there any National Association for STR owners in the Country?

The

National Association for STR Owners

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Disclaimer

Lodge compliance is not a licensed tax or financial advisor. Therefore nothing in the above article should be construed as tax, legal, or financial advice. Contact your local tax office for information regarding your personal circumstance.

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