Complete Guide to Unsecured Personal Loan in Singapore?

Quick Loan

Written by Lee

Published on 15 July, 2025

Key Takeaways

This article covers everything you need to know about unsecured personal loans in Singapore. It explains how they work, what you can use them for, the pros and cons, where to apply, eligibility requirements, and how to apply step by step. You’ll also find tips on managing repayments and answers to common questions, helping you decide if this type of loan is right for your needs.

In Singapore, an unsecured personal loan is a popular way to get money. There’s no need to use your precious valuables as security. People use it for all sorts of things, from medical bills to travel. What makes it such a sought-after option?

In this guide, you’ll find out what these loans are, how they work, the benefits and drawbacks, and how to apply.

Table of Contents

What Is an Unsecured Personal Loan?

Unsecured Personal Loan in Singapore

An unsecured personal loan is a type of loan you can take without offering any assets as a guarantee. This means you don’t need to put up your car, home, or savings to get approved. The lender trusts that you’ll repay the money based on your income, job stability, and credit score.

This is different from secured loans, where you must give a collateral as backup. If you don’t repay a secured loan, the lender can take your given asset as compensation. With unsecured loans, there’s no such risk to your belongings.

Unsecured personal loans are fast, flexible, and easier to access for many people. You can use them for many things in Singapore. This includes paying off bills, covering emergency costs, or funding personal plans. Licensed moneylenders like Quick Loan offer this type of loan, fast and fuss-free.

How Do Unsecured Personal Loans Work?

Unsecured Personal Loan in Singapore
  1. Loan Application: Start by filling out a simple form. You can do this online from home or visit the lender’s office if you prefer face-to-face help.
  2. Proof Needed: The lender will ask for your documents. These usually include your ID, recent payslips, and proof of address. Others may sometimes ask for your credit report too. They check these to make sure you’re able to repay the loan.
  3. Approval: If your documents are in order and you meet the requirements, the moneylender will invite you down to their store and make you a loan offer. This will show how much you can borrow, the interest rate, and how long you have to repay.
  4. Disbursement: Once you accept the offer, you will receive the money. The lender will credit straight into your bank account or hand it to you in cash.
  5. Repayment: You pay back the loan in fixed monthly amounts. This includes the borrowed amount, the interest, and any other fees. You keep paying each month until the full amount is cleared.

Unsecured personal loans with interest rates are often processed faster than secured ones. This is because you don’t need to provide any collateral. With licensed moneylenders like Quick Loan, approval can take as little as 20 minutes. This is ideal when you need cash quickly.

What Can You Use an Unsecured Personal Loan For?

Unsecured Personal Loan in Singapore

Unsecured personal loans are versatile. You might use one for:

You generally won’t need permission on how you use your loan. Feel free to use the money for what matters to you.

Pros and Cons of Unsecured Personal Loans

Unsecured Personal Loan in Singapore

Applying an unsecured personal loan with interest rates can help handle urgent expenses. But like all financial products, it has upsides and downsides. Here’s a breakdown to help you decide if it’s right for you.

Pros of Unsecured Personal Loans

No Collateral Needed:

You don’t have to pledge your home, car, or other assets. This means you won’t lose anything valuable if things don’t go as planned.

Fast and Easy Application:

Since there’s no need to check or hold assets, approval is often quicker. With licensed lenders like Quick Loan, you can get your money on the same day.

Fixed Monthly Payments:

Know exactly what to pay back each month. This makes it easier to plan your spending and avoid surprises.

Flexible Use:

Whether you need to pay off other debts, cover medical bills, or fund a vacation, you can use the loan as you see fit. There are no restrictions.

Cons of Unsecured Personal Loans

Higher Interest Rates:

Since the loan isn’t backed by anything valuable, lenders may charge more as protection. This means you’ll pay more in total.

Tighter Checks on Credit and Income:

Lenders will look at your credit score, monthly income, and past repayments. If your history isn’t strong, approval may be harder.

Lower Borrowing Limits: 

You may not be able to borrow as much as you could with a secured loan like a mortgage or car loan.

Extra Charges May Apply:

Some lenders add processing fees, late charges, or early repayment penalties. Always read the terms before you sign.

By weighing the pros and cons, you can decide if an unsecured personal loan is the right solution for your needs.

Where Can You Get an Unsecured Personal Loan?

Unsecured Personal Loan in Singapore

In Singapore, there are two main places you can turn to for an unsecured personal loan. These are banks and licensed moneylenders. Each has its own strengths, depending on your situation.

Banks

Banks are usually the go-to option for borrowers looking for long-term loans and low rates. Here’s what to expect:

  • Lower Interest Rates:
    Banks tend to offer some of the lowest rates if you qualify.
  • Longer Loan Tenures:
    You can repay over a few years, which helps keep monthly payments low.
  • Strict Approval Criteria:
    You’ll need to meet minimum income levels (usually S$20,000 to S$30,000 a year or more) and have a good credit score.
  • Slower Process:
    Applications can take days or even weeks. This is due to stricter background checks and paperwork.

If you meet all the requirements, a bank may offer better rates. But if you don’t, getting approved could be difficult.

Licensed Moneylenders

Licensed moneylenders, like Quick Loan, are a trusted option for fast access to cash.

Here’s what makes them a popular choice:

  • Same-Day Approval and Payout:
    Applications are usually processed in under 30 minutes, with cash handed out the same day.
  • Flexible Requirements:
    Lower income? New to a job? Moneylenders may still consider your application.
  • Simpler Process:
    Fewer documents, less waiting, and clear terms. Ideal for urgent or unexpected expenses.
  • Shorter Tenures:
    Repayment plans are typically shorter, which means higher monthly instalments. But you clear the debt faster.

Licensed moneylenders are a practical, legal, and regulated solution. They serve as an alternative for borrowers who need quick access to money or don’t meet bank criteria. 

How to Qualify for an Unsecured Personal Loan

Unsecured Personal Loan in Singapore

Before you apply for an unsecured personal loan, it helps to know what lenders usually look for. Meeting these requirements boosts your chances of getting approved.

Age Requirement:

You must be an adult. Some lenders accept applications from those aged 18 and above. Others may require you to be at least 21.

Minimum Annual Income:

Most banks and financial institutions expect you to earn at least S$20,000 to S$30,000 a year. If you’re a foreigner, the bar is usually higher, some lenders may ask for S$40,000 or more.

For example, as a licensed moneylender, Quick Loan follows the regulations set by the Registry of Moneylenders. The table below provides an idea on how much we can lend our borrowers:

Annual IncomeSingaporeans & PRsForeigners
Below S$10,000Up to S$3,000Up to S$500
S$10,000 – S$20,000Up to S$3,000Up to S$3,000
Above S$20,000Up to 6x monthly incomeUp to 6x monthly income

Employment and Income Type

A steady job gives lenders confidence that you can repay. This usually would be a full-time role. Lenders also prefer borrowers who are regular freelancers or self-employed with consistent income. Some lenders may also consider CPF contributions as proof of employment.

Credit Score and Debts

Lenders check your credit score to see if you’ve been paying off other loans on time. If you have many unpaid debts, it may affect your approval. But a good repayment history works in your favour.

Required Documents

You’ll need to provide certain required documents, depending on your case and status:

  • NRIC (front and back) (for Singaporeans and PRs)
  • Passport and valid work pass (for foreigners)
  • Employment Pass
  • S Pass
  • Recent payslips or income proof:
  • CPF contribution statements
  • Bank statements
  • Income Tax Notice of Assessment (NOA))
  • A copy of your employment contract (for foreigners)
  • Proof of address (for foreigners):
  • Utility or phone bill showing your name and local address
  • Tenancy agreement

How to Apply for an Unsecured Personal Loan

Unsecured Personal Loan in Singapore

Applying for an unsecured personal loan in Singapore isn’t as difficult as it sounds. Follow these simple steps to make the process smoother and more confident.

1. Check Your Credit Score

Start by finding out where you stand. Your credit score is a number that shows how well you’ve handled past loans or bills. You can get your credit report from the Credit Bureau Singapore (CBS).

A higher score usually means better chances of approval and lower interest rates. A lower score might still get you a loan, especially with licensed moneylenders, but with

2. Choose Your Lender

Look around and compare your options. Different lenders offer different:

  • Interest rates
  • Repayment periods
  • Fees
  • Loan amounts

Some borrowers may prefer banks. Others may approach licensed moneylenders like Quick Loan. The latter especially if they want quicker approvals or more flexibility.

💡 Tip: Always check if the lender is licensed under the Registry of Moneylenders

3. Get Pre-Approval (Optional but Helpful)

Some lenders offer pre-approval or loan calculators on their websites. This gives you a rough idea of how much you might qualify for and what your monthly payments could look like.

It’s not a guarantee, but it helps you plan better before committing.

4. Submit Your Application and Documents

Once you’ve picked a lender, you’ll need to fill out an application form. This can usually be done online, over the phone, or in person.

You’ll also need to upload or bring your documents. Common ones include:

  • NRIC / Work Pass
  • Payslips or income proof
  • Bank statements
  • Proof of address (utility or phone bill)
  • Tenancy agreement (if renting)

5. Face-to-Face Verification (for Licensed Moneylenders)

Singapore law requires you to show up in person if applying with a licensed moneylender. This step ensures identity verification and adds transparency.

At this meeting, the loan officer will:

  • Check your documents
  • Explain the loan terms clearly
  • Answer your questions
  • Make sure you understand what you’re signing

6. Review and Sign the Loan Agreement

Don’t rush through this part!

Take time to read the loan contract, including:

  • Interest rate
  • Loan amount
  • Repayment schedule
  • Any fees (e.g., late payment fees, early repayment clauses)

Once you’re satisfied, sign the agreement and keep a copy.

7. Receive Your Funds

After signing, your loan will be disbursed. This can be done in cash or direct to your bank account, sometimes within the same day.

Conclusion

Unsecured Personal Loan in Singapore

Unsecured personal loans can be a helpful solution when you need quick access to funds. It can help for medical bills, education, travel, or unexpected costs. Since they don’t require collateral, they offer more flexibility and faster approvals. This is especially true when working with licensed moneylenders like Quick Loan.

That said, it’s important to borrow wisely. Always compare your options and understand the loan terms. With that, choose an amount and lender that fits your budget. An unsecured loan can be a smart and manageable way to meet your financial needs.

FAQs

What is the difference between a secured and unsecured loan?

A secured loan requires you to pledge an asset, such as a house or car, as collateral. In contrast, an unsecured loan doesn’t require collateral, typically resulting in higher interest rates but without the risk of losing your property.

How much can I borrow with an unsecured personal loan in Singapore?

Loan amounts vary by lender. Generally from S$20K to S$200K for banks, or up to 6× monthly income for moneylenders like Quick Loan.

How long does it take to get approved?

Banks usually take 1 – 5 working days. Licensed lenders like Quick Loan can approve and disburse funds within 20 minutes!

Do I need a good credit score to get an unsecured loan?

Yes, a good credit score helps you qualify and get better rates. But licensed moneylenders also consider income and repayment ability.

Can foreigners apply for unsecured personal loans in Singapore?

Yes you can, provided you have a valid work pass (e.g., EP, S Pass) and meet the income criteria.

What documents do I need to apply for?

You’ll usually need a photo ID (NRIC or passport + work pass). Also payslips or income proof, bank statements, and proof of address. Find out more regarding loan application documents here. 

Can I repay my loan early without penalties?

Quick Loan is transparent on all costs and offers zero early repayment fees. That means you can pay off faster and save on interest.

What happens if I miss a repayment?

You’ll be charged late fees and late interest. Lenders may report the missed payment to credit bureaus. In severe cases, legal action may be taken. If you’re facing difficulties, reach out to your lender as soon as possible to explore reduced repayment options.

How to Apply for Personal Loan in Singapore FAQs

A personal loan in Singapore is an unsecured type of borrowing, meaning you don’t need to provide any assets like property or a car as security. It’s commonly used to manage expenses such as home renovations, medical bills, weddings, or consolidating existing debts.

When you take a personal loan from a bank or licensed moneylender, you’ll receive a fixed amount of money and agree to repay it over a set period, usually with monthly instalments. The interest rate and repayment terms are clearly stated in the loan agreement and are based on factors like your income, credit score, and how much you’re borrowing.

In Singapore, it’s important to borrow from licensed financial institutions and compare rates across banks to find a plan that suits your needs and repayment ability.

Applying for a personal loan in Singapore through a traditional bank presents many restrictions, including stricter eligibility criteria, longer processing times and higher chances of rejection. Your credit score and income weigh heavily on the bank’s decision to offer you a personal loan.

On the other hand, licensed moneylenders in Singapore can give you a personal loan with low interest rates, a convenient online application process and more flexibility. At Quick Loan, we welcome applications from anyone aged 18 and above with a minimum income of SGD1,800 and the required documentation according to their citizenship status.

You can access a quick cash loan for emergencies or secure funds for major expenses like medical bills.

All licensed moneylenders in Singapore are subject to the Moneylenders Act, ensuring that we adhere to confidentiality laws and have strict limits on interest rates, fees and other charges. You can be sure that all loans and processes at Quick Loan are legal and carefully regulated.

When you apply for a urgent cash loan with licensed moneylenders in Singapore, you can expect a faster personal loan approval process compared to traditional banks. At Quick Loan, you can look forward to accessing your funds within 30 minutes.

You can also expect a lower rejection rate for your application since moneylenders are more likely to approve your loan, even if you have a bad credit score. Quick Loan lets you access personal loan instant approval service and other options. These include payday loans to help you meet those expenses that cannot wait.

Yes, you can qualify for a instant personal loan as a foreigner in Singapore. All you need to do is ensure that you possess an S Pass or Employment Pass with 6 months of validity.

To apply for a personal loan for foreigners in Singapore, you must present these with your passport, along with proof of residency, payslips for the last three months, a bank token, your employment contract and your staff card.

Unlike banks, licensed moneylenders have minimal requirements for expats applying for personal loans. Moneylenders also have faster loan processing times, meaning you can get your money within the same day to cover any urgent needs. Alternatively, you may apply for our foreigner loan with a minimum monthly salary of SGD3,400 with no guarantor required. You can look forward to flexible repayment conditions with low effective interest rates if your loan is approved.

You can take out a personal loan even with an unfavourable credit score. You may have trouble qualifying for a traditional bank loan, where poor credit indicates a high risk loan candidate. However, licensed moneylenders in Singapore are more lenient with applicants’ credit history.

At Quick Loan, for example, our requirements for loan applications are minimal and straightforward. If you need cash urgently, legitimate licensed moneylenders like us are an excellent alternative to banks.

We’ll help you find a loan that works best for your unique situation, such as funds for big-ticket items like education.

The minimum requirements for applying for a personal loan in Singapore depend primarily on your citizenship, income level and age. Quick Loan requires you to be at least 18 years of age with a minimum salary of SGD1,800 to qualify for a online personal loan.

Singapore banks have stricter eligibility conditions and income level requirements. However, non-bank loan requirements tend to be much more lenient, making licensed moneylenders a reliable alternative if you cannot meet a bank’s prerequisites or require cash on top of what banks have offered you.

At Quick Loan, you can look forward to a simple and speedy approval process once you’ve met our requirements for a personal loan. You can also apply for a quick loan or licensed moneylender loan with us to secure urgent funds.

Here at Quick Loan, no collateral or third-party guarantor is needed for your application for a personal loan in Singapore. Unlike Singaporean banks, licensed moneylenders tend to favour personal loans that are flexible and suitable to your needs in terms of repayment.

Yes. Personal loans are meant to cater to a variety of financial needs, from debt consolidation on pending bills, medical emergencies, supporting your renovation works at your new place, or boosting your cash flow at your new business.

At Quick Loan, we aim to customise our personal loans to your requirements, so that everyone gets the best out of their package, whether it may be for that special day with your loved one, or providing you that extra capital for a worthwhile investment.

Should you happen to miss your payment for your personal loan with Quick Loan, please contact us as soon as you are able. As late payments will detrimentally affect your credit score, and also incur unwanted additional charges, we would similarly like to avoid such a scenario and hope to work with you to see if we can find a mutually beneficially solution together.

  1. Type of Loan
    • Unsecured Loans: You don’t need to offer anything valuable, like your house or car, as collateral. However, these loans often have higher interest rates because the lender takes on more risk.
    • Secured Loans: You need to provide something valuable (like property or a vehicle) as collateral. These loans usually offer higher borrowing limits and lower interest rates because the lender has something to fall back on if you can’t repay. But if you don’t pay, they can take your collateral.
  2. Interest Rates & Fees
    Interest rates directly affect how much you’ll pay each month, so it’s important to shop around to find the best deal.

    Be mindful of any extra fees, like:

    • Origination Fees: Fees for setting up the loan.
    • Service Fees: Charges for maintaining your loan account.
    • Underwriting Fees: Costs for reviewing and approving the loan.
  3. Loan Tenure
    The loan tenure (how long you have to repay) affects the total cost of your loan. A shorter tenure means less interest paid over time. Choose a loan tenure that fits your budget, so you can comfortably make your payments.
  4. Your Financial Situation
    Before taking out a loan, think about your financial situation. Look at your income, expenses, and any other debts to figure out how much you can afford to borrow and repay. Only borrow what you really need and can comfortably pay back, so you avoid financial stress later.

To apply for a personal loan in Singapore, the required documents differ based on whether you’re a Singaporean/PR or a foreigner:

For Singaporeans/PRs, you will need:

  • NRIC (National Registration Identity Card)
  • Singpass (for identity verification)

If you’re renting:

  • Tenancy Agreement
  • Proof of Address (e.g., recent phone bill or utility bill)
  • Payslips from the last three months (if available)
  • Bank Token (for secure transactions)


For Foreigners, the required documents include:

  • S Pass or Employment Pass
  • Passport
  • Residence Information:
  • Phone Bill or Utility Bill (as proof of address)
  • Tenancy Agreement
  • Payslips from the last three months (if available)
  • Bank Token
  • Employment Contract
  • Staff Card (if applicable)

The personal loan process with Quick Loan is quick and easy:

Apply: Submit your application online with Singpass Myinfo
Free Consultation & Agreement: Discuss loan options in store and sign your loan agreement
Receive Cash: Get your loan disbursed directly into your bank account or receive cash within 20 minutes!

Yes! You can apply for a personal loan with Quick Loan even if you have existing loans with other moneylenders, as long as you meet the necessary criteria for approval. However, keep in mind that having existing loans may affect your eligibility or the loan amount you can receive, as it will be considered as part of your overall financial situation.

Quick Loan will evaluate your current debt levels and ability to repay the new loan, so it’s important to ensure you can manage the additional repayment alongside your existing obligations. We may also assess your income and credit history to determine the loan terms.

Yes, it is possible to apply for a personal loan with Quick Loan even if you have a poor credit rating. However, approval may depend on several factors such as your current income, repayment capacity, and existing debt levels. As a licensed moneylender, we have more flexible criteria compared to banks, and are more likely to approve loans for individuals with less-than-ideal credit scores.

It’s important to note that while your credit score may not be the primary factor, Quick Loan will still assess your financial situation to determine whether you can afford the loan and meet repayment terms.

No, your loan documents will not be mailed to your home unless you have requested for it. Quick Loan prioritizes digital communication for our application and approval process, allowing you to receive all necessary information via email. This helps ensure security, convenience, and speed in processing your loan.

At Quick Loan, there are no penalties for early repayment or full early settlement of a personal loan

If you decide to pay off your loan early, you will only need to repay the outstanding principal amount along with any charges that has accrued until the date of settlement.

Personal loans can have both positive and negative effects on your credit score, depending on how punctual your loan repayments are:

Positive Effects:

  • Timely Payments: If you make your loan payments on time and in full, this positive behavior will reflect well on your credit report, potentially improving your credit score over time.
  • Debt-to-Income Ratio: Successfully managing your personal loan can show that you are capable of handling multiple types of credit, which may improve your overall credit profile.

Negative Effects:

  • Credit Inquiry Impact: When you apply for a personal loan, the lender may perform a hard inquiry (credit check), which can temporarily lower your credit score by a few points.
  • Increased Debt: If you don’t manage the loan responsibly, it can increase your debt load, leading to missed payments or accumulating debt, which could negatively impact your credit score.

To be eligible for a personal loan in Singapore, you generally need to meet certain criteria, which can vary slightly depending on whether you’re applying through a bank or a licensed moneylender. Here’s a general overview of the eligibility requirements:

For Singaporeans and Permanent Residents (PRs):

  • Age: You must be at least 18 years old at the time of loan repayment.
  • Income: Minimum annual income of SGD 20,000 for salaried employees. If self-employed, your annual income should be SGD 30,000 or more.
  • Employment Status: You should have a stable income and employment. If you’re salaried, providing recent pay slips is usually required.
  • Creditworthiness: Your credit score and debt-to-income ratio will be reviewed, and those with a history of timely repayments are more likely to qualify.

For Foreigners:

  • Visa Status: You must have a valid Employment Pass or S Pass.
  • Income: Your minimum income requirement is generally SGD $40,000 annually.
  • Proof of Residence: Foreigners must also provide proof of their residence in Singapore (e.g., utility bills, tenancy agreements).
  • Additional Documents: Foreigners will need to submit extra documentation, such as a passport, employment contract, and staff card (if applicable).

Other Considerations:

  • Existing Debts: If you already have outstanding loans with other financial institutions, it may affect your eligibility.
  • Credit Rating: Your credit score plays a significant role. Lenders assess your ability to repay the loan based on your financial standing.

Taking out a personal loan in Singapore can offer financial flexibility, but it comes with certain risks, including:

  • High-Interest Rates: If you have a poor credit score, you may face higher interest rates, which could significantly increase the total amount you repay.
  • Debt Accumulation: If you’re already struggling financially, taking on more debt can lead to greater financial stress. Missing payments can also result in late fees and higher interest.
  • Impact on Credit Score: Failing to repay the loan on time can negatively affect your credit score. On the other hand, responsible management can improve your credit history.
  • Loan Repayment Pressure: The set repayment schedule could put a strain on your monthly budget, especially if your financial situation changes unexpectedly (such as job loss or medical emergencies).

In Singapore, personal loans generally come with the following terms:

Minimum Loan Tenure: Minimum loan tenure differs from 1 week to 1 month depending on lenders.

Maximum Loan Tenure: The maximum loan tenure is often 5 years, depending on the lender. Longer tenures may be available for larger loan amounts but often come with higher total interest costs.

To choose the best personal loan for your situation in Singapore, consider these factors:

  • Interest Rates: Compare the interest rates from different lenders. Look for fixed rates (consistent payments) if you prefer stability or variable rates (which may change) if you’re comfortable with fluctuations.
  • Fees and Charges: Ensure you understand any additional fees such as processing fees, early repayment fees, or late payment charges. Some lenders offer loans with no additional fees, making them more affordable in the long run.
  • Loan Amount and Tenure: Make sure the loan amount is appropriate for your needs and that the loan tenure fits within your budget. A longer repayment period may make it easier to repay, but it could also increase the total interest paid.
  • Repayment Flexibility: Some lenders allow you to make early repayments without penalties. Check if you can adjust repayment terms if necessary.
  • Eligibility Criteria: Verify if you meet the lender’s eligibility requirements, such as income levels, credit score, and employment status.

QuickLoan Pte Ltd is a licensed money lender in Singapore, serving you since 2010. We reside in International Plaza Tanjong Pagar, giving you the best financial assistance. Our Services include personal loan, payday loan, business loan, renovation loan and foreigner loan and more with instant approval! With our simple application process, you can look forward to fast cash within 20 minutes. What’s more, you can enjoy greater peace of mind with our low interest rates and affordable repayment plans. We’re licensed by the Registry of Moneylenders, so you can rest assured that your dealings with us are fully regulated, legal and transparent.