Someone has to meet several requirements for permanent residency (PR) in Singapore before getting a PR status. Singapore has different PR schemes with their own requirements. Once the residency status is approved, PR holders can enjoy the many benefits it offers, such as the ability to buy property and healthcare. This article dives into more about the requirements for permanent residency in Singapore.
What are the requirements for permanent residency in Singapore?
There are several requirements for permanent residency in Singapore. A foreigner is eligible to apply for permanent residence if they are a:
- Spouse of a Singapore citizen or Singapore permanent resident.
- Unmarried child below 21 years old, born within a legal marriage, or adopted by a Singapore citizen or permanent resident.
- Aged parent of a Singapore citizen.
- Holder of an Employment Pass or S Pass.
- Student studying in Singapore.
- Foreign investor in Singapore.
Singapore has several different PR schemes. The requirements for permanent residency in Singapore are different for each scheme.
PR scheme for individuals working or studying in Singapore
This PR scheme is designed for foreign professionals already living, working, or studying in Singapore, intending to make the country their long-term home. There is no minimum salary for PR in Singapore. These are the requirements for this PR scheme:
- A minimum of two years of continuous employment in Singapore.
- Holding a valid Employment Pass or EntrePass.
- Good moral conduct.
- Aged under 40 years old (for the Professional, Technical Persons, and Skilled Workers Scheme).
PR scheme for investors in Singapore
The Global Investor Programme (GIP) offers foreign investors a chance to secure PR in Singapore by investing in its thriving economy. The requirements for permanent residency in Singapore with this scheme are:
- An initial investment of SGD 2.5 million ($1.88 million) in a new or existing business entity or approved funds.
- Investment should be made within six months of receiving approval in principle.
- Demonstrated personal and professional growth ambitions in line with Singapore’s business environment.
PR scheme for Foreign Artistic Talent (ForArts) in Singapore
The Foreign Artistic Talent Scheme is created for artists recognized for their significant contributions to the artistic realm. The requirements for permanent residency in Singapore through the ForArts scheme include:
- Proof of recognition as an artist in one’s home country.
- International experience or qualifications in artistic practice.
- Application review by both the National Arts Council (NAC) and the Immigration and Checkpoints Authority of Singapore (ICA).
Costs and processing time
Applying for permanent residency in Singapore costs SGD 100 ($75) for each applicant. This payment can be made by Visa or Mastercard credit/debit card, American Express (AMEX) credit card, Internet Direct Debit (available to Singapore bank accounts), or PayNow. After approval, you are required to pay a fee for the following procedures and documents:
- SGD 20 ($15) for Entry Permit.
- SGD 50 ($37.50) for a 5-year Re-Entry Permit.
- SGD 50 ($37.50) for Identity Card.
- SGD 30 ($22.50) per Entry Visa (foreigners are required to get a visa).
The PR application process in Singapore typically takes between 4 to 6 months. Ensure all documentation is in order before to speed up the process, as any small mistake can lead to extended processing times.
Benefits of Singapore’s permanent resident status
Singapore’s permanent resident status is a coveted goal for many, as it offers many benefits to those able to acquire PR status, such as medical benefits for Singapore PRs. These are the key benefits of becoming a Singapore permanent resident:
- Freedom of movement: PR status lets you live, work, and travel to and from Singapore without visa restrictions.
- Employment ease: Singapore’s permanent residents don’t have to apply for new work visas.
- CPF contributions: PRs receive Central Provident Fund (CPF) contributions from their employer (retirement savings).
- Housing opportunities: PRs can purchase resold public HDB housing in Singapore.
- Pathway to Singapore citizenship: Permanent residents can apply for Singapore citizenship in the future, offering them one of the most powerful passports in the world.
- Family inclusion: Applying for PR for your family members can increase the chances of application success.
- National service: Male PRs must serve a 2-year National Service, allowing them to integrate better and form strong community bonds.
Once you meet all the requirements for permanent residency in Singapore, you can apply for PR and enjoy its benefits.
Can permanent residents buy a house in Singapore?
When considering the PR application requirements, many people wonder if the residency gives them the right to buy a house in Singapore, as in most countries, it does so. In Singapore, permanent residents can buy resold public HDB housing. This is a major benefit of becoming a permanent resident in Singapore, as non-residents cannot buy this property type.
However, foreigners with a permanent residency can not buy landed properties in Singapore. Citizens have the right to buy landed properties, but there are special restrictions for PRs. Knowing these restrictions is important before looking into your PR application status or planning a Singapore PR application.
From permanent resident to Singapore citizenship
Applying for Singapore citizenship is possible for some who achieve the Singapore permanent resident status. Becoming a permanent resident can pave the way for Singapore citizenship. Once an individual has PR status, it opens up the choice to apply for Singapore citizenship in the future. This transition is one of the few avenues to obtain a Singapore passport. Applying for Singapore citizenship is possible for those who are at least 21 years of age and have been a Singapore permanent residents for at least two years.
Singapore dual citizenship: Before you apply for Singapore citizenship, you should be aware of the fact that Singapore doesn’t allow dual citizenship. This means a Singapore passport holder can only hold the Singapore passport and no others.
How to apply for permanent residency in Singapore?
Do you meet all the requirements for permanent residency in Singapore? You can then apply for PR in Singapore by following these steps:
- Use the ICA’s eService to start your Singapore PR application.
- Meet Singapore’s PR requirements by gathering all required documents, including birth certificates, marriage certificates, academic qualifications, and other required documents.
- Schedule an interview at the ICA building for document submission and assessment.
- Wait for the PR application status, which can take four to six months.
Understanding the requirements for permanent residency in Singapore can be challenging, and so is the application process. Easify your Singapore permanent resident application by getting help from a legal agent in Singapore. Legal agents can help you with all Singapore PR requirements, the application process, and even with applying for Singapore citizenship.
Get help with applying permanent residency in Singapore
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is the minimum salary for PR in Singapore?
There is no specific minimum salary for PR in Singapore. Instead, one must hold an Employment Pass or S Pass, or be an investor or spouse of a Singapore citizen. The requirements for permanent residency in Singapore are mainly focused on eligibility rather than a strict salary benchmark.
How do I apply for PR in Singapore?
You can apply for PR in Singapore when you meet all requirements for permanent residency in Singapore. After that, you can apply using the ICA’s Service. Here, you need essential documents like birth certificates, marriage certificates, qualifications, testimonials, and professional licenses. After completion, an interview and document submission at the ICA building are scheduled. A PR application often requires a thorough verification process.
Can PR stay in Singapore without a job?
Yes, a Singapore permanent resident (PR) can stay in the country without a job. However, holding PR status offers the advantage of living, working, and traveling to and from Singapore without visa restrictions, making the PR journey flexible.
What is the best time to apply for Singapore PR?
There isn’t a “best” time to apply for Singapore PR. However, considering the country’s keen interest in acquiring more citizens, any potential applicant should ensure they meet the requirements for permanent residency in Singapore before starting the PR application process.
When can an S Pass holder apply for PR in Singapore?
An S Pass holder can apply for PR in Singapore after possessing at least two years of continuous employment and meeting the other requirements for permanent residency in Singapore. This is under the scheme for individuals working or studying in Singapore. Holding a valid Employment Pass or EntrePass can further enhance the eligibility.
How to get PR in Singapore?
You can get PR in Singapore online by using ICA’s Service after meeting all requirements for permanent residency in Singapore. When completing the requirements, the ICA will invite you for an interview and document submission at their building.
What are the most important requirements for permanent residency in Singapore?
The most important requirements for permanent residency in Singapore include holding an Employment Pass, S Pass, or being an investor. You need to show at least two years of continuous employment in Singapore. Other important criteria include good moral conduct, age considerations, and relevant qualifications. It’s also essential to understand the specifics of the PR scheme you’re applying under, such as the Professionals/Technical Personnel and Skilled Worker Scheme (PTS).
