5 Practical Tips to Navigate Singapore’s 9% GST

At a Glance

• Current Rate: The 9% GST implemented in 2024 will remain in effect through 2025 and 2026.
• Dining Out Secrets: If you see '++' on a menu, your final bill will be approximately 20% higher than the listed price.
• Online Shopping: GST now applies to all imported goods, including low-value items under SGD 400.

What is the most surprising moment for newcomers or travelers in Singapore when they receive a bill? It is likely the moment they realize the final amount is significantly higher than the price shown on the menu. While many countries include VAT in the displayed price, Singapore often adds a consumption tax known as 'GST' separately.

With the GST rate increasing to 9% on January 1, 2024, the rising cost of living has become quite noticeable. Since this 9% rate is set to continue through 2025 and 2026, understanding this tax system has become an essential survival strategy for living in Singapore. Today, I’ll share some practical GST-related insights I’ve gathered while living here.

Understanding '++' and 'Nett' When Dining Out

When looking at menus in Singapore, you will frequently see '++' next to the prices. This indicates that a 10% service charge and 9% GST will be added. Many people assume this adds up to 19%, but because the tax is calculated on the amount inclusive of the service charge, the actual increase is closer to 20%.

• ++ (Plus Plus): This means a 10% service charge and 9% GST are billed separately. This is common in standard restaurants and hotel dining.
• Nett: This is the final price, inclusive of all taxes and service charges. You’ll find this at hawker centers and some cafes, making it much easier to calculate your budget.
• Price Display Rules: General retail stores (supermarkets, clothing shops, etc.) are legally required to display prices inclusive of GST. If a tag says SGD 100, that is exactly what you pay at the counter.

GST on Online Shopping (Amazon, Shopee, etc.)

There was a time when goods imported into Singapore were exempt from tax if they were valued under SGD 400. However, the law changed in 2023, and now a 9% GST applies to all imported goods regardless of the value. This is a crucial point for parents who frequently order children's books or daily necessities from overseas.

• Low-Value Goods (LVG): For online orders under SGD 400, the 9% GST is often automatically included at the checkout stage on major platforms like Amazon or Qoo10.
• High-Value Goods: For items exceeding SGD 400, you must pay the tax through Singapore Customs or the delivery courier (DHL, FedEx, etc.) before the goods can be released to you.
• Digital Services: A 9% GST is also applied to subscription services like Netflix, YouTube Premium, and Spotify. If you’ve noticed your subscription fees creeping up, this tax is the reason.

Administrative and Financial Fees Changing from 2026

Here is another piece of practical information: starting January 1, 2026, GST will be applied to certain government-related fees that were previously exempt. While these aren't massive amounts, it’s good to be aware of them.

• ID Replacement: GST will be added to the fees for replacing a lost NRIC or Long-Term Pass (EP, DP, etc.).
• Banking Fees: Annual credit card fees and stock transaction commissions also include 9% GST. However, core financial services like savings account interest, currency exchange fees, and loan interest remain GST-exempt.
• Investment Precious Metals: Investment-grade gold or silver bars are GST-exempt, making them a tax-efficient option for those looking to invest.

Practical GST Tips for Residents

As expats living in Singapore, we aren't eligible for the government's GST Vouchers (cash payouts), making the tax hike feel a bit heavier. Here are some ways to manage your spending more effectively:

• Check Your Receipts: Small businesses with an annual turnover of less than SGD 1,000,000 are not authorized to collect GST. If a small neighborhood shop charges you GST, check the receipt for a valid GST registration number.
• Tax Refunds for Visitors: If parents or friends are visiting from abroad and spend more than SGD 100 at a single shop, they can claim a 9% GST refund at Changi Airport before departing. While residents aren't eligible, make sure your guests take advantage of this!
• Splitting Shipments: If you are sending items from overseas that exceed SGD 400, it is sometimes cheaper to split the shipment into smaller packages to avoid high administrative permit fees, though you should compare this against the extra shipping costs.
• Manage Digital Subscriptions: If you have multiple digital subscriptions billed to a Singapore card, compare the prices with accounts from your home country. Depending on exchange rates and local taxes, your home country's account might occasionally be cheaper.

References

• IRAS: GST Rate Change for Consumers
• Singapore Customs: Importing Goods
• Ministry of Finance: Assurance Package Updates

Exchange rate reference: 1 SGD ≈ 1,150 KRW (As of February 6, 2026)