Permanent Residence (PR) in Singapore is the status granted to eligible foreign nationals who have lived in the country for an extended period, contributing positively to the economy and society.

PR status allows individuals to live, work, and study in Singapore indefinitely, with benefits such as access to healthcare, education, and employment opportunities similar to citizens, although they do not have the right to vote.

Acquiring permanent residency in Singapore depends on qualifications and interest. There are three PR schemes available:

• PTS Scheme (Professional, Technical Personnel and Skilled Workers),
• GIP Scheme (Global Investor Program),
• ForArts Scheme (Foreign Artistic Talent).

To be eligible for Permanent Residence (PR) in Singapore, individuals generally need to fulfill the following criteria:

• Employment Status: Holders of certain types of work passes, such as Employment Pass (EP), S Pass, or Entrepreneur Pass, may be eligible to apply for PR after working and residing in Singapore for a specified period (usually a few years).

• Contribution to Singapore: Applicants with a stable employment history, good income tax records, and a positive contribution to Singapore’s economy and society are more likely to be considered for PR.

• Family Ties: Family members of Singaporean citizens or PRs may apply for PR based on family ties, provided they meet the necessary criteria and have resided in Singapore for a qualifying period.

• Economic Investment: Individuals who make significant economic contributions to Singapore, such as investors, entrepreneurs, or skilled professionals in key sectors, may be eligible for PR under specific schemes like the Global Investor Programme (GIP) or Professionals/Technical Personnel & Skilled Workers Scheme (PTS).

• Personal Background: Applicants must have a clean criminal record and be of good character, with no history of immigration or legal violations in Singapore or other countries.

• Age and Health: While there are no strict age limits, applicants are generally expected to be of working age and in good health to contribute positively to Singapore’s economy and society.

• Other Considerations: The Immigration and Checkpoints Authority (ICA) evaluates PR applications holistically, taking into account factors such as educational qualifications, language proficiency, and community contributions.

It’s important to note that eligibility criteria and application processes for PR in Singapore may vary depending on the individual’s circumstances, employment status, and the specific PR scheme they are applying under.

Foreigners who meet the following criteria can apply for Singapore PR under the PTS Scheme and GIP Scheme:

• Unmarried children and spouses of Singapore PR holders or citizens,
• Aged parents of Singapore citizens,
• S Pass and Employment Pass holders (including EntrePass and Personalized Employment Pass),
• Entrepreneurs/investors eligible under GIP.

Foreigners who meet the following criteria can apply for Singapore PR under the ForArts Scheme:

• Possess relevant education/training in their field,
• Demonstrate significant professional experience and notable achievements in Performing Arts, Literary Arts, Visual Arts, Design, and/or Media,
• Have made substantial contributions to local art and culture, including leadership roles in local engagements,
• Exhibit strong future plans for contributing to Singapore’s arts and cultural scene.

Typically, processing PR applications in Singapore requires 4 to 5 months, although some cases may experience longer processing times. The duration can vary depending on the specific scheme through which the application is submitted.

The Professional, Technical Personnel, and Skilled Workers (PTS) Scheme is the primary path to Singapore PR, favored by S Pass, Employment Pass, Personalized Employment Pass, and Entrepreneur Pass holders.

More than 95% of professionals obtain PR through this scheme. Additionally, dependents such as spouses and unmarried children under 21 years old can also apply, with male dependents being subject to Singapore National Service upon PR approval.

Whether an individual secures Singapore PR via the PTS scheme hinges on factors like education, work experience, financial stability, and relevant skills. Here are some elements that may bolster an applicant’s PR prospects:

• Specialized skills in a niche industry,
• Skills that complement Singapore’s workforce,
• Age under 50,
• Qualifications from reputable institutions,
• Family ties in Singapore,
• Engagement in voluntary work and community contributions,
• At least 12 months of Singapore work experience before PR application.

The Global Investor Program (GIP) targets entrepreneurs and investors aiming to start or invest in businesses in Singapore, offering PR alongside. Dependents like children and spouses of these entrepreneurs and investors can also acquire Singapore PR.

PR holders under the Global Investor Program share similar National Service (NS) responsibilities with those under the PTS scheme, with strong applications often showcasing robust business track records and entrepreneurial experience.

Eligible candidates can choose between two investment options within the GIP program:

• Option A: it entails investing S$2.5 million or more in a new or expanded business in Singapore. This choice requires a detailed 5-year plan outlining fiscal projections, employment specifics, and business milestones to be achieved within that period, all within specific industrial sectors: Aerospace Engineering, Art Businesses, Automotive, Biotechnology and Pharmaceuticals, Chemicals, Clean Technology/ Alternative Energy, Consumer Business, Electronics, Energy and Natural Resources, Engineering, Family Office and Financial Services, Healthcare, Infocomm, Marine and Offshore Engineering, Media, Medical Technology, Nanotechnology, Performing Arts Businesses, Precision Engineering, Professional Services, Safety & Security, Space, Shipping, Sports Businesses, Supply Chain and Logistics Management, Visual Arts Businesses
• Option B: it entails investing S$2.5 million or more in a GIP-approved fund that exclusively invests in Singapore-based companies. This investment requirement is crucial for eligibility under the Global Investor Programme.

Once an applicant selects one of the two options and submits the GIP application, authorities evaluate it based on specific criteria:

• The applicant must possess a minimum of 3 years of business or entrepreneurial experience and furnish the last 3 years’ audited financial statements.
• The company’s turnover should exceed S$50 million in the most recent year and maintain an average turnover of over S$50 million annually for the preceding 3 years.
• The applicant must provide financial statements of the company with the highest turnover, potentially consolidating businesses within approved industries to meet the turnover criteria.
• If the applicant’s company is privately held, they should hold at least 30% shareholding, and authorities will consider both the applicant’s role and the company’s growth and profitability.

In Singapore, the documents required for a Permanent Residence (PR) application typically include:

• Completed PR Application Form: The applicant must fill out the Permanent Residence application form accurately and completely.
• Passport: A valid passport with a minimum validity of six months beyond the intended period of stay in Singapore. The passport should have at least one blank visa page.
• Identity Card: Copies of both sides of the applicant’s Identity Card (IC) or Foreign Identification Number (FIN) card if applicable.
• Passport-sized Photographs: Recent passport-sized color photographs of the applicant, taken against a white background, adhering to the specified dimensions and quality.
• Employment Pass (EP) / S Pass Details (if applicable): For applicants holding an EP or S Pass, copies of their EP or S Pass, employment letters, and related employment documents.
• Education Certificates: Copies of educational certificates, diplomas, degrees, or professional qualifications demonstrating the applicant’s educational background and achievements.
• Employment History: Details of the applicant’s employment history in Singapore, including employment contracts, salary statements, income tax assessments, and contributions to the Central Provident Fund (CPF).
• Income Tax Returns: Copies of income tax returns (Form IR8A) for the past three years, showing the applicant’s annual income and tax contributions in Singapore.
• Proof of Financial Stability: Documents showing proof of financial stability, such as bank statements, investments, property ownership, or other assets in Singapore.
• Family Ties: If applicable, documents demonstrating family ties in Singapore, such as marriage certificates, birth certificates of Singaporean children, or sponsorship letters from Singaporean relatives.
• Additional Supporting Documents: Depending on the specific circumstances and requirements, additional documents may be requested by the Immigration and Checkpoints Authority (ICA) or deemed necessary for the Permanent Residence application process.

It’s crucial for applicants to ensure that all required documents are accurate, complete, and properly prepared according to ICA’s guidelines. Any additional information or clarifications requested by ICA during the application process should be promptly provided to facilitate a smooth and successful Permanent Residence application. Professional advice from immigration consultants or legal experts can also be beneficial in navigating the application process effectively.

The application procedure for Permanent Residence (PR) in Singapore generally involves these steps:

• Eligibility Check: Ensure that you meet the eligibility criteria for PR, which may include holding an Employment Pass, S Pass, or other relevant passes, and demonstrating strong ties to Singapore such as family ties, economic contributions, or exceptional talent.
• Submission of Application: Prepare and submit the PR application online through the Immigration and Checkpoints Authority (ICA) e-Service portal. The application can also be submitted through an authorized third party, such as an employer or immigration consultant.
• Required Documents: Gather and upload all required documents, which typically include a completed application form, passport details, employment details, educational qualifications, proof of income, tax documents, family details (if applicable), and any additional documents specified by ICA.
• Application Processing: ICA reviews the PR application, conducts background checks, and assesses the applicant’s eligibility based on various factors such as economic contributions, family ties, and community involvement.
• In-Principle Approval (IPA): If the application is successful, ICA issues an In-Principle Approval (IPA) letter, inviting the applicant for an appointment to complete the formalities for PR status.
• Formalities and Interview: Attend the appointment at ICA for fingerprinting, photo-taking, and an interview. During the interview, the applicant may be asked questions about their intentions, background, and ties to Singapore.
• Approval and PR Status: Upon successful completion of the formalities and interview, ICA approves the PR application, and the applicant receives their Permanent Residence status in Singapore.

It’s crucial to ensure that all required documents are accurate, complete, and uploaded according to ICA’s guidelines. Any additional information or clarifications requested by ICA during the application process should be promptly provided to avoid delays. Professional advice from immigration consultants or legal experts can also be beneficial in navigating the Permanent Residence application process effectively.

The duration of your residency in Singapore significantly impacts your PR approval chances, as does your contribution to Singaporean society.

Leveraging immigration pathways like the EntrePass, Employment Pass (EP), or Personalized Employment Pass (PEP) can pave the way for PR status.

Applicants from nearby regions like Malaysia often have higher success rates, given the historical, cultural, and social similarities between Singapore and Malaysia.

Applications involving male children who haven’t applied for PR might face challenges, as second-generation PRs are NS-liable.

ICA evaluates PR applications holistically without a points system, so engaging professional residency services can enhance your application. Apply for Singapore PR only if you envision Singapore as your long-term home, as PR status opens the path to citizenship after maintaining it for two years.

If your application for Permanent Residence (PR) in Singapore is rejected, you can file an appeal with the Immigration and Checkpoints Authority (ICA) within 6 months from the date of the rejection letter. The appeal will be reviewed, and you may need to provide additional supporting documents or address any concerns raised during the initial assessment.

The processing time for the appeal can vary but generally takes around 4 to 8 weeks.

If your application is unsuccessful, we can help to investigate why your application was rejected and to refine your application and business plan based on MOM’s feedback and submit an appeal on your behalf.

The renewal process for Permanent Residence (PR) in Singapore involves applying for a re-entry permit (REP) to the Immigration and Checkpoints Authority (ICA) before the current REP expires. Eligible PRs can apply for REP online or by completing a paper application form and submitting it to ICA.

The processing time for REP renewal applications can vary but generally takes around 5 to 7 working days for online applications and 10 to 15 working days for paper applications.

To cancel a Permanent Residence (PR) status in Singapore, the PR holder should complete and submit the PR cancellation form to the Immigration and Checkpoints Authority (ICA).

The form typically requires details such as the PR holder’s particulars, the reason for cancellation, and the expected last day of PR status.

Additionally, the PR card must be returned to ICA within one week of cancellation.