Singapore Permanent Residence
Your pathway to long-term residency and integration into Singapore society
What is Singapore Permanent Residence?
Understanding PR Status
Singapore Permanent Residence (PR) is a status granted by the Immigration and Checkpoints Authority (ICA) to foreign nationals who meet specific eligibility criteria. PR status allows individuals to reside in Singapore on a long-term basis, typically with validity periods of 5-10 years that can be renewed. Unlike Singapore citizenship, PR status does not require renouncing your original nationality and provides substantial residency rights.
Benefits & Privileges
PR holders are issued a blue Identity Card (IC) and receive benefits comparable to Singapore citizens in many respects, including the ability to work without employment pass restrictions, access to subsidized healthcare, and the right to purchase HDB properties. The PR status is a permanent form of residence, though holders must maintain a valid Re-Entry Permit if they wish to travel outside Singapore and return as a PR.
Eligibility Categories
Spouse of Singapore Citizen or PR
Your spouse (Singapore citizen or PR) can sponsor your application through the ICA e-Service using their Singpass.
Unmarried Child Below 21
Must be born within a legal marriage or legally adopted by a Singapore citizen or PR. Parent sponsorship required.
Aged Parent
Parent of a Singapore citizen aged 21 or above. Your Singapore citizen child will need to sponsor the application.
Employment Pass or S Pass Holder
Must have worked in Singapore for at least 6 months. Apply directly through the ICA e-Service using your Singpass.
Foreign Student
Must have passed at least one national exam (PSLE, GCE N/O/A levels) or be in an Integrated Programme. Can apply via e-Service.
Foreign Investor
Must invest at least SGD 2.5 million in a startup or established business in Singapore. Check EDB's Global Investor Programme for details.
ICA Assessment Factors
The ICA carefully evaluates PR applications based on multiple factors to ensure applicants can contribute to Singapore's development and integrate into society:
Family ties to Singaporeans
Economic contribution and potential
Educational qualifications and expertise
Age and professional experience
Family profile and dependents
Length of residency in Singapore
Character and background
Commitment to integrating into Singapore society
Benefits of Singapore PR
Unrestricted Employment
Change jobs freely without requiring employment pass approval or sponsorship
Blue Identity Card
Receive Singapore's blue IC valid for re-entry and travel purposes
Healthcare Access
Access subsidized healthcare through Singapore's world-class medical system
Education Benefits
Children can attend government schools with subsidized fees
Property Ownership
Purchase HDB flats and private properties with resident privileges
Family Sponsorship
Sponsor spouse, children, and parents for PR status
CPF Benefits
Access to Central Provident Fund for retirement and housing
Path to Citizenship
PR status serves as a stepping stone toward Singapore citizenship
How to Apply for Singapore PR
All Singapore PR applications are submitted online through the ICA e-Service. Here's the step-by-step process:
Access ICA e-Service
Visit the ICA e-Service for Permanent Residence and log in with your Singpass. Foreign students use their FIN and pass issuance date.
Select Your Application Category
Choose your eligibility category: Employment Pass/S Pass holder, Singapore citizen, Singapore PR, or Foreign student.
Indicate Applicant Type
Specify whether you're applying for yourself, your spouse/children, or your aged parents.
Download and Complete Forms
Download required forms, complete them (online or by printing and scanning), and upload to the e-Service.
Upload Supporting Documents
Upload scanned/digital copies of all required documents (see checklist below). You have 7 days to complete uploads.
Pay Application Fee
Submit the application fee of SGD 100 per applicant online using credit card, debit card, Internet banking, or PayNow.
Wait for Processing
Applications are processed within 6 months if all documents are complete. Monitor status via MyICA portal or e-Service.
Receive In-Principle Approval
Upon approval, you'll receive In-Principle Approval (IPA) notification via email or post.
Complete Formalities
Visit the Permanent Resident Services Centre to receive your blue Identity Card and complete final requirements.
Obtain Re-Entry Permit
If traveling outside Singapore, obtain a Re-Entry Permit (SGD 50 for 5 years) to maintain PR status.
Required Documents
When uploading documents, provide certified true copies of originals and official English translations (if applicable). The ICA accepts translations from embassies, notary publics, or privately translated documents authenticated by these entities.
Common Documents (All Applicants)
- ✓Copies of valid passport's personal details pages
- ✓Copy of current immigration pass (Employment Pass, S Pass, Student Pass, etc.)
- ✓Passport-sized digital photo meeting Singapore photo requirements
- ✓Signed declaration form (downloaded from e-Service)
- ✓National ID copy if applicable
- ✓Change of name certificate or deed poll if name has changed
Employment Pass / S Pass Holders
- ✓Letter from employer stating position, salary, and employment start date
- ✓Pay slips from the last 6 months
- ✓Employer testimonials from previous employment
- ✓Copies of highest educational certificates (all tertiary qualifications)
- ✓Business Registration Certificate (if self-employed)
- ✓Professional licenses or trade certificates if applicable
Family-Based Applications
- ✓Official marriage certificate (for spouse applications)
- ✓Birth certificates of children or adoption papers
- ✓Custody papers from previous marriages if applicable
- ✓Death certificate or previous marriage certificate if divorced/widowed
- ✓Household census or official family registry
- ✓Copies of sponsor's passport and proof of Singapore citizenship/PR status
Foreign Students
- ✓Educational certificates and transcripts
- ✓Proof of passing national exam (PSLE, GCE N/O/A levels) or IP status
- ✓Vocational trade certificates if applicable
- ✓Professional license/membership certificates
- ✓Copies of parents' passports with details pages
- ✓Birth certificate or household census showing parents' names
Foreign Investors
- ✓Proof of SGD 2.5 million investment in Singapore business
- ✓Business ownership and registration documents
- ✓Bank statements showing investment capital
- ✓Business plan and financial projections
- ✓Proof of role in business management
- ✓Check EDB website for Global Investor Programme specific requirements
Fees and Processing
At Submission
SGD 100 per applicant
Non-refundable application fee
At Completion
SGD 20
Entry Permit
SGD 50
5-year Re-Entry Permit
SGD 50
Singapore Identity Card
Payment Methods
Pay online using any of these methods:
- • Visa or MasterCard credit/debit card
- • American Express (AMEX) credit card
- • Internet Direct Debit (DBS/POSB, OCBC, UOB, Standard Chartered Bank)
- • PayNow
Processing Timeline
Most applications are processed within 6 months, provided all required documents are submitted and complete. Some applications may take longer depending on complexity.
You'll be notified of the outcome via email or post and can check status anytime via the MyICA portal or e-Service.
Important: National Service Obligations
Critical Information for Male Applicants
Under Singapore's Enlistment Act 1970, all male Singapore citizens and permanent residents (unless exempted) are required to serve National Service (NS).
All male applicants must access www.cmpb.gov.sg for NS information before proceeding with your PR application.
Key NS Points
- • Full-time NS followed by Operationally Ready National Service (NSmen)
- • NS obligation ends at age 50 (officers) or age 40 (other ranks)
- • Male students are liable for NS unless exempted
- • MINDEF allows completion of pre-tertiary education (GCE 'A' Levels, polytechnic) before enlistment
- • No deferment granted for university studies
- • Defaulting on NS obligations is a serious criminal offense with fines up to SGD 10,000 and imprisonment up to 3 years
Important Consequences
Renouncing or losing PR status without serving/completing full-time NS will have serious adverse impacts:
- • Future work or study applications in Singapore will be affected
- • Any long-term immigration facility applications will be rejected
- • Re-Entry Permit renewal may be denied
- • Singapore citizenship applications will be denied
- • Family members' immigration applications and sponsorships will be affected
For More Information
Central Manpower Base (CMPB):
Local: 1800-3676767 | Overseas: +65-6567-6767
Email: sg@visa.org.sg
Re-Entry Permit for PR Holders
Singapore PR holders who wish to travel outside Singapore and return as a PR must obtain a valid Re-Entry Permit. Without this permit, your PR status may be forfeited.
Single Re-Entry Permit
Valid for one overseas trip. Cost: SGD 50
Choose this if you plan limited international travel.
Multiple Re-Entry Permit (5 Years)
Valid for multiple trips within 5 years. Cost: SGD 50
Recommended for frequent travelers and business professionals.
Important: Traveling without a valid Re-Entry Permit will result in loss of PR status. You will need to reapply for PR if you wish to return to Singapore.
From PR to Singapore Citizenship
Singapore PR status is often the first step toward Singapore citizenship. Many PR holders eventually pursue citizenship to gain full political rights and permanent status without renewal requirements.
Singapore PR Status
- •Requires 5-10 year renewal
- •No political rights or voting
- •Can work, study, and live freely
- •Maintain original nationality
- •Access most citizen benefits
Singapore Citizenship
- •Permanent status without renewal
- •Full political and voting rights
- •Typically requires 2-3 years as PR
- •Usually requires renouncing original nationality
- •May require citizenship examination
For comprehensive information about PR applications, citizenship pathways, and immigration services, contact the Immigration and Checkpoints Authority (ICA) or visit the official ICA website.
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