Singapore’s reputation for stability, top-tier infrastructure, and high living standards continues to attract individuals from around the world who are looking to live, work, and build a future in the city-state. If you’re planning to make Singapore your second home, obtaining PR in Singapore can be a crucial step forward. You will learn all you need to know from this tutorial.
Why Apply for Singapore Permanent Residency?
Here are some key advantages of being a Singapore PR:
- Long-Term Stay: Live in Singapore without time restrictions, ensuring peace of mind for you and your family.
- Re-Entry Permit (REP): Travel in and out of Singapore without hassle, provided your REP remains valid.
- Public Services Access: Benefit from subsidized healthcare, education, and lower income tax rates applicable to residents.
- Career Advantages: Work freely in Singapore without needing a separate work visa, and receive contributions to your Central Provident Fund (CPF).
- Property Ownership: As a PR, you can jointly purchase HDB flats with a Singapore Citizen or another PR, easing the process of owning a home.
Who Can Apply for PR in Singapore?
Applicants must fit into one of the following categories in order to be eligible:
- Spouse of a Singapore Citizen or Permanent Resident
- Children under 21 who are not married and who are Singaporean citizens or permanent residents
- Parents of a Singapore Citizen
- Employment Pass or S Pass holders
- Students currently studying in Singapore
How to Apply PR in Singapore
Submit Application Online
Applications are submitted via the ICA e-PR system. Use your FIN (for students and work pass holders) or SingPass (for residents).
Upload Supporting Documents
All necessary papers must be uploaded as scanned copies. Make sure translations are included for non-English documents.
Essential Documents Checklist
For All Applicants
- A legitimate travel document that is valid for at least six months
- Identity card (if issued)
- Birth certificate or family documents listing both parents
- Deed poll or legal name change papers (if applicable)
- Educational qualifications and certificates
- Marriage certificate (if applicable)
- Divorce or death certificates and custody documentation (if relevant)
If You Are Employed
- Employment or S Pass (copy)
- Letter from your current employer (issued within the last month)
- Payslips from the past 6 months
If You Are Self-Employed
- Valid ACRA business registration details listing partners (if any)
- Relevant professional or occupational licenses
If You Are a Sponsor
- NRIC
- Marriage certificate
- Divorce, death, or custody documents (if applicable)
- Educational qualifications
- Employer letter with employment history and salary details (last 6 months)
- Business registration (for business owners) or occupational license (if self-employed)
Applying for Parents (Sponsored by Singapore Citizen)
For Applicants
- Travel document or NRIC of spouse (if deceased, death certificate or tombstone image)
- Marriage certificate
For Sponsors
- Birth certificate confirming the parent-child relationship
- Citizenship certificate (if applicable)
- Deed poll (if any name changes occurred)
- Siblings’ birth and citizenship certificates (if applicable)
- Travel documents of siblings
- Highest educational qualifications
PR Application for Employment Pass or S Pass Holders
For Applicants
- EP/S Pass and educational qualifications
- Relevant transcripts, licenses, and vocational trade certificates
- Past employment testimonials (with salary and job description)
- Appendix 1 (PR-PTS form)
If Married
- Marriage certificate
- Custody documents (if children are from previous marriages)
- Spouse’s academic and professional certifications
- Spouse’s passport, immigration pass, identity card (if any)
- Spouse’s birth certificate and deed poll (if applicable)
If Including Children
- Child’s passport and immigration pass
- Child’s birth certificate (including parents’ names)
- Adoption or name change documents (if applicable)
PR Application for Students in Singapore
- Latest school transcripts, results, or vocational certificates
- Valid passports and identification documents of both parents
- All non-English documents must be translated and notarized or certified by an embassy or public notary
Photograph Requirements
- Size: 35mm x 45mm, taken within the past 3 months
- Background: White, matt or semi-matt finish
- Resolution: 400 x 514 pixels
- Facial image: 25mm–35mm from chin to crown
- No headgear, unless required by religion/culture; face must be clearly visible
- Format: JPEG
Applying via the Global Investor Programme (GIP)
High-net-worth individuals with a strong business background may apply under the Global Investor Programme, overseen by the Economic Development Board (EDB). Applications are submitted directly through the EDB’s official platform.
Cost of Applying for PR
| Fee Type | Cost (SGD) |
| Application Processing | $100 |
| Entry Permit (Form 5/5A) | $20 |
| Singapore Identity Card | $50 |
| Re-Entry Permit (5 years) | $50 |
Fees only apply when papers have been approved and issued.
Pathway to Singapore Citizenship
If you are 21 years of age or older and have maintained PR status for at least two years, you may choose to apply for Singaporean citizenship. Citizens enjoy additional privileges, such as:
- Voting rights
- Full access to public housing (including direct purchase from HDB)
- Unrestricted employment and travel benefits
Conclusion
Securing permanent residency PR in Singapore can be a transformative step, opening up a wealth of benefits for individuals and families alike. Whether you are a working professional, student, or family member of a citizen, understanding the process and ensuring your documents are in order will significantly improve your chances. For those looking to make a long-term commitment, PR is the first milestone on the road to becoming a Singaporean citizen.
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