Essential English for Foreign Spouses in Singapore A Survival & Integration Guide

Love knows no borders, and thousands of Singaporeans marry foreign spouses every year. But once the wedding is over, the reality of living in Singapore sets in. For a foreign spouse—whether from Vietnam, China, Thailand, or Indonesia—navigating life in the HDB heartlands can be daunting if English is a barrier.

It's not just about ordering food; it's about integration. The Immigration and Checkpoints Authority (ICA) places a heavy emphasis on how well a foreign spouse integrates into society when assessing applications for the Long Term Visit Pass Plus (LTVP+) or Permanent Residence (PR). Speaking English allows you to bond with your Singaporean in-laws, make friends with neighbors, and find employment.

This guide is not a grammar textbook. It is a survival kit of essential English phrases and cultural tips to help foreign spouses build a happy, independent life in Singapore.

Section 1: Winning Over the In-Laws

In Asian culture, relationship with the in-laws is crucial.

• The Greeting: Don't just smile. Say, "Good morning, Pa/Ma. Have you eaten?"
• Offering Help: "Ma, let me help you wash the dishes." / "Pa, do you need more tea?"
• Compliments: "Ma, your cooking is delicious." (Even if it's not, say it is!).

Section 2: The Wet Market & Supermarket Run

To save money, you need to shop at the wet market, not just NTUC FairPrice.

At the Wet Market:

• Buying Meat: "Uncle, give me $5 minced pork. Less fat, please."
• Asking Freshness: "Auntie, are these prawns fresh? From today?"
• Haggling (Lightly): "Can give cheaper? Buying a lot."
• Vegetables: "One bundle kangkong, one bundle spinach."

At the Supermarket:

• "Where can I find the rice section?"
• "Is this on offer/promotion?"
• "Do you accept PayNow?"

Section 3: Visiting the Polyclinic

Healthcare is a priority. You need to be able to explain your child's or your own sickness.

Registration:

• "I would like to see a doctor. I have an appointment at 10 AM."
• "This is my passport and LTVP card."

Describing Symptoms:

• "My son has a high fever (39 degrees) and a runny nose."
• "I have a stomach ache / gastric pain."
• "Is this medicine drowsy? (Will it make me sleep?)"

Section 4: Taking Public Transport (Bus & MRT)

Don't rely on your husband/wife to drive you everywhere. Independence is key.

• Asking Directions: "Excuse me, does this bus go to Tampines Interchange?"
• Top-Up: "Auntie, top up EZ-link card $10." (At the counter).
• On the Bus: "Excuse me, moving to the back." (When it's crowded).

Section 5: Making Friends with Neighbors

Integration happens in the corridor.

• The Lift Chat: "Hi! Good morning." / "Going to work?" / "School holiday now?"
• Festivals: "Happy Chinese New Year!" / "Happy Hari Raya!" giving a small gift (cookies) to neighbors during festivals is a great way to bond.
• Playground: If you have kids, talk to other mums. "How old is your boy?" / "Which school does he go to?"

Section 6: The "LTVP+" and Employment Factor

If you want the LTVP+ (which gives medical subsidies and a longer stay duration), show that you are trying to be employable.

• Job Search English: "I am looking for a part-time job. I can work mornings."
• Interview: "I am a hard worker. I am learning English to communicate better with customers."

Note: Foreign spouses with an LTVP/LTVP+ can work in Singapore if they get a Letter of Consent (LOC) or Work Permit. Speaking English opens up jobs in Retail, F&B, and Customer Service.

Section 7: Where to Learn English for Free/Cheap

You don't need expensive tuition.

1. Community Clubs (CC): Many CCs offer basic conversational English classes for new citizens/PRs at very low rates. Check `onePA.gov.sg`.
2. Voluntary Welfare Organizations (VWOs): Groups like ACMI (Archdiocesan Commission for the Migrant and Itinerant People) often run language programs.
3. Library: Go to the National Library. Borrow children's books to read. It's the fastest way to learn simple grammar.

Conclusion

Learning English is the best gift you can give yourself and your family. It stops you from feeling lonely. It gives you the power to go out, make friends, and earn your own money.

Don't be afraid to make mistakes. Singaporeans generally understand "broken" English well. The important thing is to open your mouth and try. Your neighbors and in-laws will appreciate your effort to become part of the family.