Outline
According to the Global Passport Power Rank 2021, issued by The Passport Index, the Singapore passport ranks 2nd in the world, granting access to 192 destinations without a prior visa. This makes it one of the most powerful passports globally — second only to Japan (193 destinations) and ahead of economic powerhouses like Germany, South Korea, and even the USA.
The Singapore Government has been proactive in making the nation an attractive destination for foreign talent. With strong incentives, business-friendly policies, and benefits for citizens and residents, Singapore continues to welcome professionals, entrepreneurs, and families from around the world. Recognizing that foreign talents are a valuable national resource, the government ensures they have the right support and infrastructure to thrive in the country.
High Level of Development
One of the top reasons foreigners aspire to live in Singapore is its remarkable level of development. According to the United Nations Human Development Index (HDI), Singapore achieved a score of 0.938 in 2021, ranking 11th globally and 2nd in Asia, behind only Hong Kong. This places Singapore in the elite group of countries categorized as having “Very High Human Development” (with a score between 0.8–1.0).
The country’s efficient public infrastructure, reliable governance, and strong healthcare and education systems make it one of the best places in the world to live and work.
Ease of Connectivity
Singapore’s strategic location and global connectivity are also major attractions. Changi Airport, voted the World’s Best Airport for eight consecutive years, connects Singapore to hundreds of cities worldwide. For regional travel, rail and road links connect Singapore to Malaysia, while ferry services operate between Singapore, Indonesia, and nearby Malaysian islands.
Being one of the smallest nations in the world, Singapore’s exceptional connectivity plays a key role in its success as a global business and travel hub.
With its stability, development, and convenience, it’s no surprise that many expatriates aim not only to live and work here but also to obtain a Singapore passport and make the city-state their permanent home.
Advantages of Owning a Singapore Passport
A Singapore passport offers unmatched global mobility and a range of financial and personal benefits. Here are some of the top advantages:
1. Tax Benefits
Being a Singapore resident offers strong tax advantages:
This makes Singapore one of the most tax-efficient countries for global professionals and business owners.
2. Lower Concerns for Security and Safety
Singapore passports are biometric passports, offering advanced security and convenience. Each passport contains an embedded electronic chip storing the holder’s biometric data, ensuring identity verification and preventing forgery.
The Immigration & Checkpoints Authority (ICA) was one of the first global authorities to adopt biometric passports, also known as BioPasses, in 2006. These passports align with ICA Singapore’s world-class security standards and help safeguard against identity theft, fraud, and terrorism.
Since their introduction, BioPasses have been extremely successful in maintaining the integrity and security of Singapore’s travel documents.
Laws Regarding Singapore Passports
The Passports Act governs all laws related to Singapore passports. It outlines essential legal and procedural details, including:
- Passport application requirements
- Issuance and validity
- Refusal or cancellation of a passport
- Passport-related offenses and penalties
It’s important for all Singapore citizens to understand and adhere to these laws to avoid potential issues during travel or renewal.
Singapore Passports and Citizenship
In Singapore, only citizens are eligible to apply for a Singapore passport. Therefore, obtaining citizenship is the first step toward securing one.
Citizenship Eligibility
Before applying for Singapore citizenship, individuals must first hold Permanent Resident (PR) status. You may apply for PR if you are:
- An aged parent of a Singapore citizen.
- An Employment Pass (EP), Personalised Employment Pass (PEP), EntrePass, or S Pass holder.
- A spouse or unmarried child (below 21 years of age) of a Singapore PR or citizen.
- There are three main schemes for obtaining PR status in Singapore:
- Professional, Technical Personnel and Skilled Workers (PTS) Scheme
Applicants under the PTS Scheme must already be working in Singapore and hold an Employment Pass (EP) with a minimum monthly salary of S$2,000. - Global Investor Programme (GIP) Scheme
This scheme targets investors with at least three years of business experience and a minimum of S$2.5 million in investment capital. Applicants must also submit audited financial statements for the past three years. - Foreign Artistic Talent (ForArts) Scheme
Artists applying under the ForArts Scheme must demonstrate significant artistic achievements and show how they can contribute to Singapore’s creative and cultural ecosystem.
Documentation, Application Process, and Timeline
Once all required documents are submitted, the processing time for PR or citizenship applications typically takes four to six months.
If approved, applicants must schedule an appointment with the Immigration & Checkpoints Authority (ICA) for verification and issuance of relevant identification documents.
After holding Permanent Residency for at least two years, and assuming the applicant is at least 21 years old and legally employed in Singapore, they may then apply for citizenship.
In some cases, citizenship by descent may also be available if one meets specific criteria under Singapore law.
Applications for Singapore citizenship can be submitted online through the ICA Singapore official website.
If you’re unsure about the process or documentation, professional firms such as Paul Hype Page & Co. can assist with your Singapore passport application, PR process, and citizenship queries.
Conclusion
The case for obtaining a Singapore passport is clear. It is one of the world’s most powerful passports, granting unparalleled mobility, tax advantages, and security.
Although the citizenship and passport application processes may be lengthy, they are ultimately rewarding. By following the proper procedures and meeting the eligibility requirements, you can enjoy the benefits of becoming a proud Singaporean citizen — and a holder of one of the most respected passports in the world.
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes. The Singapore Government does not impose nationality-based restrictions on PR applications. Any individual who meets the eligibility criteria may apply to become a permanent resident of Singapore.
No. While Permanent Residency and Citizenship share some similarities, they are not the same. A Permanent Resident (PR) does not automatically become a citizen. However, PRs who meet certain requirements can later apply for Singapore citizenship through ICA.
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