nm123

I may be moving to HK or Singapore next year for work. My boyfriend is a carpenter and I'm wondering what his chances are of getting work?? I had read about a chippy in Japan making a living from doing work for other expats - do you think this is likely to work out in Singapore or HK? I get the feeling that tradesmen in Asia aren't viewed as skilled workers like they are in the UK and are paid and trained poorly (please correct me if I'm wrong).

Also, marriage is on the cards at some point would it be difficult in terms of immigration (for either location) if we are not yet married when we move?

Thanks for your time and any advice.

nm123

Sorry - first post - didn't realise this was the lifestyle forum... Will post again in the work section!

Desert Dweller

Much better to get married before you come over as your boyfriend/husband will not qualify for a visa himself as a chippy.

Kooky.

Almost certain your boyfriend would not be able to get a job in Singapore as a carpenter! Manual workers are paid a pittance and often brought in from Indonesia, Bangladesh, etc., to live in squalid conditions and be treated worse than animals.

If the visa situation works as it does for a man on an EP bringing his girlfriend, your boyfriend will not be able to work. You would need to be married so he can get a DP (Dependents Pass), then in theory he could be employed if his empoyer applies for a Letter of Consent, proving to MoM he has specialist skills or knowledge that justify his employment. Sorry, but I can't see that happening.

If by carpenter you mean craftsman, somebody who produces furniture, etc., I guess he could look at starting his own company as a sole trader. I know people in relationships who have done this, but not in a similar field.