In today’s connected world, relocating to a new country doesn’t require you to be rich, famous, or have elite qualifications. For the determined and business-minded Ghanaian, Singapore offers a golden opportunity: a safe, clean, and business-friendly environment with one of the strongest economies in Asia.
Whether you’re looking for a better life, stable income, or a fresh start, this guide will show you how an ordinary Ghanaian can relocate to Singapore and start a simple but profitable business.
🇸🇬 Why Singapore?
Singapore consistently ranks among the best countries for business and living. Here’s why it’s ideal for African entrepreneurs:
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Easy business registration (can be done in 1–2 days)
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Low taxes compared to other developed countries
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World-class infrastructure
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Multicultural society — with many foreigners and expats
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Safe and clean environment
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Strong support for small businesses and startups
Now let’s talk about how to get there and the kind of business you can realistically start.
How to Relocate to Singapore as a Ghanaian
1. Choose a Visa Path
You can’t just pack up and fly — you need the right visa. Some options include:
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EntrePass: For entrepreneurs who want to start a business in Singapore. You need a solid business idea and must register a company in Singapore.
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Employment Pass (EP): If you find a job with a Singaporean company (especially in tech, logistics, or services), you can move there and eventually branch into your own business.
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Student Pass: Study a course (e.g., in business or tech) and transition into starting your business after graduation.
Tip: If you’re serious about entrepreneurship, the EntrePass is your best route. It requires a business plan and some capital (typically SGD 50,000 or more), but it’s a great way to move with a long-term goal.
What Business Can an Ordinary Ghanaian Start in Singapore?
You don’t need to be a tech genius or millionaire to succeed. Many Ghanaians thrive by starting niche, low-capital businesses that serve expat communities, the African diaspora, or local Singaporeans interested in new cultures.
Top Business Idea: African Food and Grocery Store (Online + Offline)
There’s a growing interest in African food and culture among foreigners in Asia — including in Singapore. Plus, thousands of Africans live and work there.
Here’s why this business works:
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Underserved market: Few places sell authentic African products.
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Low start-up capital: Start small with imported goods from Ghana (e.g., gari, shito, shea butter, smoked fish).
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Online potential: You can sell via Shopee, Lazada, Facebook Marketplace, or your own website.
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High margins: Imported ethnic goods often sell at premium prices abroad.
What You’ll Need:
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A small shop space (or home-based inventory to start)
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Business license (register with ACRA – Accounting and Corporate Regulatory Authority)
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Import contacts from Ghana (family, friends, traders)
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Social media pages and Google business listing
Expansion ideas:
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Add a food delivery service (homemade jollof, waakye, etc.)
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Host African cooking classes
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Collaborate with local supermarkets to stock Ghanaian products
Other Business Ideas You Can Explore
1. African Fashion & Hair Products
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Sell kente, African prints, bonnets, and wigs.
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Singaporeans love unique fashion — stand out with African designs.
2. Freelance Digital Services
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Use platforms like Fiverr or Upwork while living in Singapore.
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Skills like graphic design, video editing, and social media management are in demand.
3. Import-Export Agent
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Act as a middleman between Ghanaian traders and Singaporean buyers.
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Export Ghanaian shea butter, cocoa, or crafts to Asia.
Tips for Success in Singapore
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Network constantly: Join expat communities and business groups.
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Stay legal: Renew your visa, register your business, and pay taxes.
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Be humble and patient: Starting from scratch in a new country takes time.
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Stay visible online: Singaporeans research everything online before buying.
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Learn the local culture: English is widely spoken, but learning some Mandarin or Malay is a plus.
Relocating to Singapore as an ordinary Ghanaian might seem bold — but it’s completely possible. With a bit of research, preparation, and hustle, you can build a meaningful life and successful business in one of Asia’s most advanced economies.
Start small. Think creatively. Serve a unique need. And remember: you don’t have to be extraordinary to take an extraordinary step — just start where you are, with what you have.
Source: thepressradio.com
