Singapore’s efficient economy, world-class education and healthcare systems, and inclusive, multicultural society have made it a magnet for global talent and investors. Securing Permanent Resident (PR) status in Singapore is a crucial step for many in planning their long-term future. This article provides a comprehensive overview of the core benefits of Singapore PR, available application routes, and essential considerations to help you efficiently navigate the application process.
I. Key Advantages of Singapore PR
1. Asset Acquisition
• Eligibility to Purchase Public Housing (HDB Flats): Married PR couples (with at least 3 years of PR status) may purchase resale HDB flats, a privilege not extended to most foreign nationals.
• Stamp Duty Concessions: PRs pay only 5% Additional Buyer’s Stamp Duty (ABSD) on their first residential property, compared to 60% for foreigners.
2. Social Benefits & Long-Term Security
• Access to Central Provident Fund (CPF): PRs are eligible for CPF, Singapore’s core social security and compulsory savings scheme, which provides benefits in retirement, healthcare, and housing.
• Favorable Tax Rates: PRs pay the same progressive personal income tax rates as citizens, which are lower than in most developed countries. Overseas income is not taxable.
• Education Benefits for Children: PR children have higher priority than foreigners when enrolling in government schools and kindergartens, and tuition fees are significantly lower—typically 1/3 to 1/2 of international school fees.
• Family Sponsorship: PRs may sponsor their spouse and unmarried children under 21 for PR status. Parents may apply for long-term stays via Long Term Visit Pass or Dependent Pass, enabling family reunification.
• Citizenship Pathway: PRs are eligible to apply for Singapore citizenship (subject to meeting residency and other requirements).
3. Career Flexibility
• No Work Pass Dependency: PRs are not restricted by work visas (e.g., Employment Pass) and can change jobs freely without requiring employer sponsorship for new work permits.
4. International Mobility
• Re-Entry Permit (REP): Singapore PRs can apply for a Re-Entry Permit, which allows unlimited travel in and out of Singapore without risking the loss of PR status while abroad.
II. How to Apply for Singapore PR: Main Pathways Explained
The Immigration & Checkpoints Authority (ICA) has established different PR application pathways according to applicants’ backgrounds. The most common categories include:
A. Employment-Based Routes
1 .S Pass Holders
• For mid-skilled workers with a minimum monthly salary of SGD 3,150 (SGD 3,650 in the financial sector), with higher salary requirements for older applicants; employer quota applies. From 1 September 2025, the minimum will increase to SGD 3,300 (SGD 3,800 in the financial sector).
• Note: The PR approval rate is low for direct S Pass applications; upgrading to Employment Pass (EP) before applying is recommended.
2. Employment Pass (EP)
• For professionals with monthly salaries starting at SGD 5,000 (SGD 5,500 for financial services), with higher salary requirements for older applicants. A COMPASS score of ≥40 is required.
• Eligible to apply for PR after holding an EP for 2 years, with assessment based on education, work experience, and income.
3. Top Talent Visas ( Tech. Pass / ONE Pass)
• Tech. Pass requires a minimum monthly salary of SGD 22,500; ONE Pass requires SGD 30,000. Designed for global top-tier professionals.
• The application process is highly competitive, but once approved, the likelihood of successful PR application increases significantly.
B. Entrepreneur & Investment Routes
1.Self-Employed EP
• Requires registering a company in Singapore and holding a shareholder or director position.
• While a paid-up capital of at least S$200,000 is commonly recommended, it is not an official requirement.
• PR applications can typically be submitted after around 2 years of stable business operations, but approval is not guaranteed.
2. Global Investor Programme (GIP)
• Investment threshold: At least S$10 million in a business, or setting up a family office with at least S$200 million in assets under management.
• Applicants must have a proven track record in business and entrepreneurship.
• Successful GIP applicants are granted PR status directly.
3. Family Office / Equity Investment
• Under the 13O or 13U schemes, applicants can establish family offices to manage assets, which allows for EP applications and, after meeting certain requirements, potential PR application.
• For equity investment, applicants must invest in local companies and meet business operation requirements to be eligible to apply for PR.
C. Education & Family-Based Routes
1. Student Pathway
• Must complete at least 2 years of study in Singapore and pass national exams (e.g., PSLE, O/A Levels).
• Gaining local work experience after graduation can significantly enhance PR application competitiveness.
2. Family Sponsorship
• Spouse/Children: Singapore citizens or PRs may sponsor their spouse or unmarried children under 21 for PR application.
• Parents: Elderly parents of Singapore citizens may apply for long-term visit passes (LTVP), but only citizens (not PRs) can sponsor their parents for this purpose.
III. PR Application Process & Key Steps
1. Document Preparation
• Required Documents: Passport, academic certificates, payslips, tax returns, employment verification.
• Supporting Documents: Recommendation letters, professional certifications, proof of family relationships (e.g., marriage certificate, birth certificate).
2. Online Submission
Complete the e-PR form and upload all documents via the ICA website (www.ica.gov.sg). A non-refundable application fee of SGD 100 applies.
3. Review Period
Processing usually takes 6 months. During this period, you may be asked to provide additional documents or attend an interview.
4. Approval & Follow-Up
Upon approval, you must complete entry formalities within one year to receive your PR identity card (IC) and Re-Entry Permit (REP).
Note: All submitted information must be truthful and complete. Submitting false information or documents will result in a permanent ban on PR applications.
IV. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: Can I reapply if my PR application is rejected?
Yes, you can. It is recommended to wait at least 6 months before reapplying, and to address the reasons for rejection (such as insufficient income or short period of residence) by improving your supporting documents.
Q2: What’s the difference between PR and Singapore citizenship?
PRs do not have voting rights, cannot hold public office, and must renew their Re-Entry Permit (REP) periodically. Citizens enjoy full political rights and visa-free travel with a Singapore passport, but must renounce all other citizenships (Singapore does not allow dual nationality).
Q3: Do I need to renounce my original nationality when applying for PR?
No, you do not. PRs can retain their original nationality. Only those applying for Singapore citizenship are required to renounce their previous citizenship.
Q4: Are PRs required to serve National Service (NS)?
Main applicants who are granted Singapore PR status under the Professionals/ Technical Personnel and Skilled Workers Scheme or the Investor Scheme may be exempted from NS. Male applicants who are granted Singapore PR status as a Foreign Student or under their parents' sponsorship are required to register for NS upon reaching 16½ years old and will be scheduled for enlistment at the earliest opportunity upon reaching 18 years old. MINDEF allows students to attain educational qualifications up to the 'A' Levels certificate, the polytechnic diploma or an equivalent before they are required to serve NS. They will be enlisted at the earliest opportunity when they have finished such courses, or after turning 18, whichever is later. MINDEF does not grant deferment for university studies, regardless of whether such studies have begun.
Males who are granted Singapore PR, and who were previously Singapore Citizens or Singapore PRs, are liable to be called up for NS regardless of the scheme under which their Singapore PR status was granted.
Q5: How much does PR application cost?
Initial application: SGD 100. Upon approval: SGD 20 for the IC and SGD 50–150 for the REP.
V. Conclusion
Obtaining PR in Singapore is not only a “golden ticket” to long-term residency but also a strategic step toward integration into the heart of Asia’s economic powerhouse. Whether you're a professional seeking career advancement or an investor planning for your family's future, understanding the policies and preparing your application thoroughly will greatly improve your chances of success.