globaleye relocation guide...the monetary authority of singapore. the currency of brunei is also...
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Globaleye Relocation Guide Singapore
A Guide to Living and Working Overseaswww.globaleye.com
SINGAPORE OVERVIEW
Singapore is an island made up of 63 surrounding islets. The main island has a total land area of 710 square km. However, its compact size belies its economic growth. In just 48 years, Singapore has grown into a thriving centre of commerce and industry. Singapore has the busiest port in the world with over 600 shipping lines sending super tankers, container ships and passenger liners sharing the busy waters with coastal fishing vessels and wooden lighters. One of the world’s major oil refining and distribution centres, Singapore is a major supplier of electronic components and a leader in shipbuilding and repairing. It has also become one of the most important financial centres of Asia, with more than 130 banks. Business dealings are facilitated by Singapore’s superb communications network which links the nation to the rest of the world via satellite, 24‐hour telegraph and telephone systems. Singapore’s strategic location, excellent facilities, fascinating cultural contrasts and tourist attractions contribute to its success as a leading destination for both business and pleasure. Climate The average temperature of Singapore is 31ºC/88ºF during the day and 24ºC/75ºF in the evening. Northeast Monsoon Season (December‐March) and the Southwest Monsoon Season (June‐ September). Located 3° north of the equator, it is very hot and humid. Geography Located at one of the crossroads of the world, Singapore’s strategic position has helped it grow into a major centre for trade, communications and tourism. It is linked to Malaysia by two causeway bridges, and the key islands of the Riau Archipelago of Indonesia are just a quick ferry trip away and Thailand and the Philippines are just a short hop on a plane. Singapore, with an airport served by more than 69 airlines, is very much the gateway to Southeast Asia. Business Etiquette Classed as the world’s easiest place to do business in 2012 by the World Bank, Singapore is a cosmopolitan city with excellent infrastructure, convenient online portals and transparent laws. Business in Singapore is more formal than in many western countries Bring lots of business cards to meetings. They should be presented with both hands, with the name facing the recipient. Upon receiving a card never write on it, put it casually into your back pocket or slot it into a folder, as any of these actions may be misconstrued as disrespect. Although Singaporeans tend to arrive late for social events, being late for a business appointment is paramount to an insult. Plan your meetings in advance and do so weeks or even months prior to your visit. Casual conversation is often typical at the start of your meeting and is a part of ‘getting to know you’ phase. You may be asked questions about your
background or personal details. Handshakes are the most common business greeting in Singapore and watching out for both verbal and non‐verbal cues is essential during meetings. Social Etiquette While making introductions and during formal meetings, the title or the family name should be used. Different cultures in Singapore have different etiquettes to follow. The Chinese people use their family names first which is followed by their personal names. The Malays do not use their family names whilst Indians use the personal names first followed by the family name. Like the Western society, the Singaporeans do not generally use physical contact while greeting someone of the opposite sex such as kissing or hugging. Currency The currency is the Singapore Dollar (S$). Singapore uses, 10c, 20c, 50c, and S$1 coins. Notes are in denominations of S$2, S$5, S$10, S$50, S$100, S$500, and S$1,000. The island also has a S$10,000 note, the movement of which is monitored by the Monetary Authority of Singapore. The currency of Brunei is also legal tender. Foreign currencies can be changed in any authorized money changer. Both travellers’ cheque and cheques can be cashed in most banks. Cheque clearance is only available Monday to Friday. Credit Cards and ATMs AMEX, Diners, MasterCard and Visa are accepted in major stores. ATM machines are conveniently available throughout Singapore. Most banks operate from 9am to 6pm Mondays to Fridays with some branches operating on extended hours till 7pm and Saturdays from 9am to 12.30pm. Cost of Living Singapore holds the reputation of being one of the costliest destinations in Asia, preceded only by Tokyo, Seoul and Hong Kong. The quality of life is good as this chic metropolis offers you the best convenience in entire South‐east Asia. Singapore is the preferred choice for the settlers owing to its high quality infrastructure and health facilities. Whether you intend to stay and study in Singapore or plan to settle down in this cosmopolitan country, it is always prudent to do an intensive research on the cost of living in Singapore. Getting to know lifestyle trends and living standards will certainly prove useful. The cost of living ranging from food and accommodation to transportation and clothing is a common worry for expatriates. Taxation Individual income tax in Singapore forms part of two main sources of income tax in Singapore, the other being corporate taxes on companies. Payable on an annual basis, it is currently based on the progressive tax system (for local residents), with taxes ranging from 0% to 20% since Year of Assessment. The Year of Assessment (YA) is based on the calendar year commencing 1 January to 31 December, and is payable on a preceding year basis, whereby taxes payable per year of assessment is based on income earned in the preceding calendar year. Taxation is based on the source principle, in which only income earned at source, in this case in Singapore, or those derived from overseas but received in Singapore, are taxable. Any income arising from sources outside Singapore and received in Singapore on or after 1 Jan 2004 by an individual (other than partners of a partnership) is exempt from tax. This system, however, has the potential in allowing for tax avoidance practises by individuals who derive income from abroad, gain tax exemptions via their non‐resident status there, and utilising this income outside Singapore. Tax on Purchases A 7% Goods and Services Tax (GST) is levied on most goods and services purchased from taxable retailers. Tourists whose purchases total S$100 or more from a single retailer participating in the Tourist Refund Scheme are eligible for a refund of the GST paid on goods not consumed in Singapore. Refunds may be received at the airport, prior to departure flights.
Education and Schools Studying in Singapore is not exactly a costly affair as there are a number of state‐run or aided schools. These schools are cheaper than their international counterparts. The annual fee may range between S$3,500 and S$15,000. When it comes to buying books and stationery, be prepared to spend between S$30 and S$100, depending on the course of studies. The state‐sponsored colleges and universities in Singapore are also more economical than the private ones. For more information visit: http://www.singaporeexpats.com/guides‐for‐expats/international‐schools.htm. Food and Drink Eating is a national pastime in Singapore. The range of food available is vast and ranges from Malay, Chinese, Indonesian, and Indian, to Thai, Japanese, Western food and Korean, to name but a few. There is also Singapore’s vast array of food stalls and restaurants that range from global franchises to gourmet delis and six‐star settings. To further promote this delicious pastime, there are seemingly endless food promotions and tours – including the Singapore Food Festival in July – which are held throughout the year. A sumptuous meal at most food courts will cost you S$5 ‐ 10 on an average. If you prefer a home cooked meal you need to be careful about the grocery items you buy. The supermarkets in Singapore can be expensive. But some groceries can be cheaper ‐ Vegetables like cabbage, carrots, horseradish and ginger are reasonable, likewise tea, coffee, nuts and red beans. You can enjoy a moderate dining experience in this modern city for less than S$500 a month. Tap water is safe to drink. Entertainment Singapore nightlife is never dull with entertainment ranging from bars, clubs, discos, karaoke pubs, street opera, night market, river cruises, cinemas, theatre productions and international stage shows. Boat Quay and Clarke Quay have an abundant selection from restaurants to pubs and lively bars. Changi Village, Holland Village and Bugis Street are very popular areas for food and entertainment. Singapore’s first ever Casino operated in 2009 at the two new “Integrated Resort” in Marina Bay Sands and Sentosa. Stop by the Universal Studios on Sentosa island to enjoy a fun day in the sunny island. Shopping Orchard Road is the main shopping area in Singapore but there are plenty of malls located around the island. Due to the rich mixed cultural background of the nation, you will be able to find goods from all over Southeast Asia in one city at very competitive prices. Communications Telephone / Mobile phone Singapore’s country code is 65. There is no city code for Singapore. IDD calls can be made from virtually any pre paid phone card which you can obtain from the airport upon arrival or at any convenience store. Roaming agreements exist with international mobile phone companies. Internet WIFI hotspots are available island wide. For up to date locations click onto http://www.infocomm123.sg/wireless_at_sg/coverage_areas. Alternatively, there are lots of internet cafes available for public access. There are 3 service providers (Singtel, Starhub and M1) who offer competitive rates to install broadband and high speed fiber optic internet broadband access at home. Postal Services Singapore Post services the postal service island wide. There are many postal boxes located island wide for easy drop off. To get an exact location on post boxes and post offices, visit www.singpost.com.sg.
HEALTH CARE Vaccinations Regulations can change at short notice. Please seek medical advice before you travel. For up to date vaccination requirements please log onto http://wwwnc.cdc.gov/travel/ default.aspx
Other Risks There is a risk (albeit small) from dengue fever in Singapore. Travellers should take normal precautions against being bitten by mosquitoes.
Public Hospitals There are seven public hospitals in Singapore comprising five general hospitals, a women’s and children’s hospital and a psychiatry hospital. Non Singapore citizens and Permanent Residents may only stay in the A (1 or 2 beds per room) and B1 (4 beds). The Ministry of Health compiles a list of complete charges including doctors’ fees for a comprehensive range of procedures at public hospitals http://www.moh.gov.sg/mohcorp/billsize.aspx?id=302 Six national specialty centres provide cancer, cardiac, eye, skin, neuroscience and dental care. There are also community hospitals for intermediate healthcare for the convalescent sick and aged who do not require the care of the general hospitals. For medical emergencies, you may head straight for a hospital’s Accident and Emergency (A&E) unit. Usually, some form of identification and a doctor’s referral letter (if any) will be requested for. At public hospitals, non‐Singapore citizens and Permanent Residents may only stay in A (with 1 or 2 beds per room) and B1 (4 beds) class wards. The charges in these wards are not subsidised. Charges in Singapore’s public hospitals are as transparent as it gets. The Ministry of Health compiles a list of complete charges including doctors’ fees for a comprehensive range of procedures at public hospitals http://www.moh.gov.sg/mohcorp/billsize.aspx?id=302
Private Hospitals The private hospitals in Singapore include Camden Medical Centre, East Shore Hospital, Gleneagles Hospital, Mount Alvernia Hospital, Mount Elizabeth Hospital, Mount Elizabeth at Novena Hospital, and Raffles Hospital. Most private hospitals offer executive or VIP suites. Some also offer premium medical services, such as Gleneagles Hospital’s elite health screening and the International Patients Centre at Raffles Hospital. Camden Medical Centre, which is also centrally located, houses some 59 specialist clinics and the latest suite of supporting medical facilities and services.
Other Medical Services There are also many specialist clinics in Singapore offering services such as dental and optometry.
Medical Insurance Insurance policies that have been bought in your previous country of residence may still be valid in Singapore, a check with the insurance company will confirm if they can service your policy here, to cover critical illness or hospitalisation bills in Singapore.
Emergency Numbers: Police: 999 Emergencies/Ambulance/Fire: 995 Non‐emergency ambulance: 1777 Police Hotline: 6225 0000 Traffic Police: 6547 0000 Pet Ambulance and Transport: 6552 2222 AAS Emergency Road Service: 6748 99119911
TRANSPORTATION Trains and buses run on time, and taxis are plentiful and relatively inexpensive. The transport system is carefully integrated, so train stations usually have a taxi stand or bus stop nearby. To travel on the bus or MRT, an EZ‐Link fare card will save you money and fuss, and can be easily purchased and topped up at MRT passenger service desks.
Taxis Most busy areas have a taxi stand, or you can walk out to a main road and flag one down – except where road traffic laws forbid stopping and/or alighting. At commuter hours, or when it’s raining, it’s best to call a taxi on the phone – it’s worth the callout fee. Fares can be paid in cash – smaller denominations are preferred – or by credit card. Some taxis also accept NETS and credit cards. Although taxi drivers speak English, differences in accents can occasionally cause confusion.
Buses Singapore’s bus system is better than in many major cities around the world. Some two million bus rides are taken each day on the island, across 300 different services. The easiest way to navigate Singapore by bus is to use an EZ‐Link card (the same card can be used for the MRT) or refer to http://www.publictransport.sg/content/publictransport/en/homepage/CommutersGuide/bus.html
MRT Much of the on‐going construction work in Singapore’s suburbs relates directly to the development of the MRT (Mass Rapid Transit) system. New lines and stations continue to open (most recently, part of the Circle Line). The aim is for the MRT to be more extensive than the London Underground. Adult fares start at $0.71 using an EZ‐Link card, up to $2 for the longest journey without EZ‐Link.
Driving Validity of foreign licenses: No additional documentation is required to drive in Singapore during short stays if the visitor has a valid driver’s license written in English. If the license is written in another language, either an official English translation or an International Drivers Permit is required. If the duration of stay is for over 12 months, it is required that the visitor convert their license to a Singapore license. It is also required that the foreign license is switched to a Singapore license as soon as possible for those who are living in Singapore with a student pass, employment pass, dependency pass, or work permit. To do this, one simply needs to pass the basic theory test, which informs the driver of driving regulations within Singapore. It is strictly forbidden to drive to work in Singapore if holding a work pass unless it explicitly states “driver”, or unless the overseer of the work pass gives permission.
Main Airport Changi International Airport (SIN): www.changi.airport.com.sg Located at 11 miles (18km) NE of Singapore Singapore’s modern Changi International Airport is vast, efficient, and organized. There are banking and money‐changing facilities, a post office, which is open 24 hours a day, credit card phones, free phones for local calls, Internet facilities, free hotel reservation counters, luggage facilities, restaurants, day rooms, fitness centers, saunas, business centers, and over 100 shops. The airport even provides free films, bars with entertainment, hairdressers, medical facilities, a swimming pool, and even a mini science discovery museum. In other words, Changi International Airport has almost everything a visitor would require. Changi Airport currently has five terminals. Terminals 1, 2 and 3 are directly connected with a common transit area, with air‐side passengers being able to freely move between the terminals without going through immigration. Transport within and between these three terminals is provided by people movers and the skytrain system, although it is also possible to walk between the terminals on foot for land‐side visitors. Situated beside Terminal 2 is Jet Quay, which has its own check‐in facilities for premium passengers and where transportation to aircraft in any of the other terminals is by personal buggy. The budget terminal, purpose‐built for low cost carriers, is physically separated from the main terminals towards the south, where connections are possible via a zero‐fare shuttle bus service to Terminal 2.
AAS Emergency Road Service: 6748 99119911
EMPLOYMENT PROCEDURE Procedures/arrangements to follow for new candidates applying to work in Globaleye Pte Ltd, Singapore Office (SO) (1) Candidates will need to send passport, certificates, qualifications, employer testimonials, etc (2) SO will apply Employment Pass (EP) in‐principle (candidates must complete EP application form and we must receive ALL required documents per point 1 above before we can apply EP in‐principle) (3) Meanwhile, candidates can start to study/prepare for their exams (candidates will need to pass M5, M9, M9A modules before licence approval, HI module can be taken after licence approval) (4) If candidates are resident in UK, they will have to provide the Basic Disclosure form for SO (Compliance) to conduct reference check (5) EP in‐principle approval process takes 1‐2 weeks approx. (6) If EP application has been rejected, we will need to submit appeal which takes another 4 weeks approx. (more documents may be required from the candidates) (7) Once EP in‐principle approved, candidates can make arrangement to fly into Singapore (8) Candidates need to pass M5, M9, M9A modules within one month of arrival into Singapore (HI module can be taken after licence approval) (9) Once candidates have passed the required modules per point 8 above and reference replies received from candidates’ previous employers, our office (Compliance) will apply FAR licence. (10) Once candidates get the FAR licence, employment contracts with effective start date will be signed
How to apply for Employment Pass (EP) / S Pass (SP) (1) Applicant will need to complete and sign the EP/SP application form per attached. (2) Submit copies of travel document (passport), supporting documents for Education (such as certificates, transcripts, testimonials, etc.) and supporting documents for Employment (letters of employment, testimonials from current and previous employers, etc.). (3) Upon submission of (1) and (2) above, Globaleye will submit EP/SP application online (application status can be checked online approx. 1 week). (4) If EP/SP application is successful, in‐principle approval will be given which is valid for approx. 6 months. This approval allows the pass holder to start work with the employer, provided he has a valid Short Term Pass. The in‐ principle approval does not validate the stay of pass holder in Singapore. Hence a request for issuance of the EP/SP should be submitted as soon as possible. Note: If EP/SP application is rejected, the appeal form with other supporting documents will have to be submitted. Processing time is at least 4 weeks.
(5) To proceed with the issuance of EP/SP, Globaleye will submit a request online. Once approved, a notification will
be issued for the EP/SP holder to visit the Employment Pass Service Centre for fingerprinting and registration within 14 calendar days from the date of the notification letter. Globaleye will book an appointment date online.
When reporting at the EPSC, the EP/SP holder to bring along required documents which may include the following (or others if required):
(a) The notification letter;
(b) The In‐Principle Approval (IPA) letter and the documents listed on that letter. If the IPA letter indicates that the education documents (Education certificate and/or support letter from education institution) have to be submitted, you will be required to report in person to endorse your signature on the documents, to confirm ownership and authenticity, in the presence of the counter officer; (c) Your latest original Travel Document and the old Travel Document if any; (d) A recent photograph;
(e) Your original Disembarkation / Embarkation card (IMM27) with Short Term Visit Pass entered at the time of Issuance Request.
How to get a Financial Adviser Representative Licence 1. Minimum requirements: a. At least 21 years old b. Qualifications of at least 4 GCE ‘O’ Level credit passes c. Employment Pass (if applicant is a foreigner) d. Relevant CMFAS Exams 2. Module 5, Module 9, Module 9A and Health Insurance Modules have to be completed before licence application is submitted to the Monetary Authority of Singapore (MAS). 3. Exam fess for each exam is as stated. Applicant is required to register and pass the exam first before the Company refunds you the exam fees. • CMFAS Examination Module 5 (M5) ‐ Rules and Regulations for Financial Advisory Services First Attempt (Monday to Friday) 9.00am to 5.00pm session After 5.00pm session (wef 11 Apr 2011) Member (SCI / IBF) S$107.00 S$119.84 Non‐Member** S$128.40 S$141.24 Subsequent Attempt (Monday to Friday) Member (SCI / IBF) S$85.60 S$98.44 Non‐Member** S$107.00 S$119.84 Note that Globaleye Ptd Ltd is not a member company • CMFAS Examination Module 9 (M9) ‐ Life Insurance and Investment‐linked Policies First Attempt (Monday to Friday) 9.00am to 5.00pm session After 5.00pm session (wef 11 Apr 2011) Member (SCI / IBF) S$107.00 S$119.84 Non‐member** S$128.40 S$141.24 Subsequent Attempt (Monday to Friday) Member (SCI / IBF) S$85.60 S$98.44 Non‐member** S$107.00 S$119.84
• CMFAS Examination Module 9A (M9A) ‐ Life Insurance and Investment‐linked Policies II First Attempt (Monday to Friday) 9.00am to 5.00pm session After 5.00pm session Member (SCI / IBF) S$107.00 S$125.19 Non‐member** S$128.40 S$146.59 Subsequent Attempt (Monday to Friday) 9.00am to 5.00pm session After 5.00pm session Member (SCI / IBF) S$85.60 S$103.79 Non‐member** S$107.00 S$125.19 • Health Insurance (HI) First Attempt 9.00am to 5.00pm session After 5.00pm session (wef 11 Apr 2011) Fee S$83.45 S$94.16 Subsequent Attempt Fee S$56.70 S$67.40 The applicable fees as specified above are inclusive of non‐refundable S$21.40 registration fee and 7% GST. For any candidate on first attempt, the fee is inclusive of a study guide and access to online E‐Book. **Note that Globaleye Ptd Ltd is not a member company
TRAVEL TIPS
Be prepared Generally, overseas travellers are more likely to be injured through unintentional injuries than to be struck down by exotic infectious diseases. In fact, accidents and traffic collisions are the most frequent cause of death among travellers, so ensure you have good insurance and if you are hiring a vehicle, ensure it is in good working order.
Copy your documents In the unfortunate event of your luggage going missing, or your passport / wallet is stolen or lost, it is a good idea to have copies that can help you with re‐issues. Take 2 coloured photocopies of your passport, plus visa stamps and documents, driving licence, important prescriptions or other ID documents. Make 2 sets of the documents and keep these copies separate from your main luggage, preferably in 2 separate bags. It is also a good idea to copy scanned or photocopied documents to an Internet based e‐mail account. Make sure someone at home knows how to access it in case of an emergency.
Vaccinations Check with your medical practitioner on what vaccines are required before your travel. Due to your medical history, you may require more than one dose, or you may need boosters for childhood vaccines. Check the latest travel advice and travel bulletins for your destination before you depart, and also while travelling, so you can ensure you have the latest information. Common diseases contracted by travellers include those which are the result of eating or drinking contaminated food or water, or not practising safe sex, plus a number of mosquito or tick‐borne diseases endemic to tropical areas. Be sure to take measures to avoid being bitten such as wearing light‐coloured clothing that covers your arms and legs, regularly applying an appropriate insect repellent and staying in mosquito‐proof accommodation or using bed nets.
Taking medicines with you Book a check‐up at your doctor or dentist, before you leave. If you wear glasses or contacts lenses, bring an extra pair of glasses and your prescription. Persons taking prescription medications should make sure they have an adequate supply for the trip, and/or bring their prescription, making sure it includes the medication trade name, manufacturer’s name, generic name, and dosage. Please also be aware that certain medicines are forbidden in Dubai, such as Codeine. Please check that any medication you are taking is legal and if you are unsure please contact us and we will check for you. Prepare a simple medical kit of over‐the counter medications (aspirin, ibuprofen, antihistamine, antiseptic and diarrhoea medication), band aids, thermometer, sunscreen, and insect repellent. When travelling overseas with medicine, (including over‐the‐counter or private prescription) it is important that you talk to your doctor and discuss the amount of medicine you will need to take.
Carry a letter from your doctor detailing what the medicine is, how much you will be taking, and stating that it is for your own personal use. Leave the medicine in its original packaging so it is clearly labelled with your own name and dosage instructions. If you have to inject your medication, inform your airline before you travel and, if necessary, arrange a letter from your doctor explaining why you need to carry them.
Your health on long‐haul flights Keep important medication with you in case your luggage goes missing. To help avoid deep vein thrombosis (DVT): drink plenty of fluids, avoiding alcohol and caffeine, and whilst seated, stretch and rotate your feet and lower legs. Walking around the cabin at regular intervals will help.
Scuba Divers If you have been scuba diving, don’t travel in an aircraft for at least 24 hours after your final dive.
Coping with Jetlag Factor the effects of jet lag into your itinerary. In order to cope with Jetlag you should get a good deal of sleep before your journey. It is also important to rest as much as possible during your flight. Planning to arrive at your destination as near to the time when you normally go to sleep will also help with the adjustment. If you are able to plan your itinerary allow time on arrival for adjustment or plan meetings at similar times to back home. Some people advise changing their watches to destination time when they get onto the plane. While this helps many people, for those who are on regular medication, such as diabetics, watches should remain on home time until you are able to adjust your medication to local times on arrival at your destination or as suggested by your health advisor. On arrival at your destination get active as soon as possible, as exercise has been proven to improve productivity. Adjust your meals and activities to local time as soon as you can. Exposure to light is also a good way of naturally allowing your body to adjust. If you need to take a short nap, do, it will help refresh you, but don’t forget to use an alarm clock or wake up call to get you up!
Lost Luggage If you happen to lose your baggage on arrival at your destination airport, tell the airline immediately and get suitable compensation. Agree on an amount you can spend on essential items that you will need and give them an address to deliver the luggage to when they find it. It is wise to make a copy of your passport details and any other important papers or vaccination certificates that you are carrying with you when you travel. Leave them in a safe place in the office or copy to an Internet based e‐mail account. Make sure someone at home either a partner or friend knows how to access it in case of an emergency. You will need photo identification even for air travel within the UK.
Personal Safety Be aware of your surroundings at all times; thieves will use many tricks to distract you ‐ wiping something off your shoulder while an accomplice is picking your pocket, getting young children to surround you while they plan to rob your belongings. Trust your instincts, especially when visiting countries where a high poverty rate comes along with high petty crime rates. When not attending meetings, try to blend in with the crowd when out and about ‐ try not to look like a visitor! When enjoying the local nightlife, guard your food/drinks and keep your wits about you. Beware of the fact that you will be an easy target after a few too many drinks. Avoid walking home to your hotel late at night, even if it is close by. Get a taxi. Don’t take shortcuts through poorly lit areas; it pays to trust your instincts in these situations. Keep your wits about you when making new friends – men and women may come across very friendly indeed if you are the route to an easier life. Be careful of telling people where you live.
CONTACTS Singapore Office Globaleye Pte. Ltd. 80 Raffles Place, #26‐05 UOB Plaza 1 Singapore 048624 Republic of Singapore Tel: +65 6632 8533 Fax: +65 6438 5169
www.globaleye.sg
Head Office Dubai P.O Box 24592 Villa 801, Al Thanya Street Umm Sequim 3 Dubai United Arab Emirates T: +971 4 404 3700 F: +971 4 348 6362 Toll Free: 800 4558
www.globaleye.com