Singapore Permanent Residency (PR) Guide: How to Apply?

Singapore has historically been a sought-after destination for foreign professionals and investors. Permanent Residency (PR) in Singapore offers long-term stability, better access to financial services, and eligibility for certain social benefits. However, obtaining PR has become increasingly competitive over the years.

Historical Trends in Singapore PR Approvals

PR applications used to be more lenient. In 2008, 79,000 new PRs were approved, sparking concerns among Singaporeans. This led the government to tighten immigration policies.
Here’s a quick snapshot of trends:

• Year 2000: 9.9% average annual PR growth
• Year 2010: 1.5% growth
• Year 2013: –0.3% decline
• Year 2018: –0.8% decline

The tightening of PR approvals reflects Singapore’s strategic approach to population management, balancing the need for foreign talent with societal integration.

Why Is Singapore PR Difficult to Attain?

Selective Immigration Policy

Unlike countries with point-based systems such as Australia, Singapore relies on the Immigration & Checkpoints Authority (ICA)’s discretion. While there are general guidelines, ICA does not disclose the exact reasons for rejection, making the process highly selective.

Anti-Foreigner Sentiments Among Singaporeans

PR is difficult to attain partly due to local concerns about job competition and societal integration. During the 2011 General Election, anti-foreigner sentiments influenced stricter PR policies. In 2013, the Population White Paper (PWP) further emphasized that new residents must integrate into society and contribute positively to Singapore’s economy and community.

Population Management

Singapore faced high population growth rates: 2.5% population growth and 3.3% workforce growth, which were unsustainable. To manage this, the government reduced the PR intake and imposed stricter rules for foreign workers, aiming to balance demographic growth and quality of life for citizens.

Current Position on PR and Immigration

Singapore continues to welcome foreign talent but evaluates applicants based on:

• Integration into Singapore society
• Economic contribution
• Commitment to Singapore’s long-term development

Eligibility Requirements & Schemes for Singapore PR Application

Different pathways exist depending on your profile:

1. Professional, Technical Personnel and Skilled Workers (PTS) Scheme

Foreign professionals holding work passes (excluding Work Permit) can apply. Spouses and children under 21 are also eligible.

Eligibility:

• Hold Employment Pass (EP), S Pass, Personalized Employment Pass, or EntrePass
• Provide at least 6 months of recent payslips or equivalent documentation

2. Sponsored Scheme

A Singapore Citizen or PR can sponsor their spouse and unmarried children under 21.

Eligibility:

• Marriage certificate and children’s birth/adoption documents
• Divorce and custody papers if applicable

3. Foreign Students Scheme (FSS)

Foreign students studying in Singapore may apply for PR after residing for at least 2 years and passing at least one national exam or being enrolled in the Integrated Program (IP).

4. Foreign Artistic Talent (ForArts) Scheme

Outstanding arts professionals with significant local engagements and achievements may apply through the National Arts Council (NAC).

Eligibility:

• Relevant education and professional experience
• Contribution to Singapore’s arts sector
• Plans to continue professional engagement in Singapore

5. Global Investor Program (GIP)

Global entrepreneurs and investors contributing economically may apply for PR via Contact Singapore (part of EDB), followed by ICA approval.

Singapore PR Application Procedure

1. Log in to ICA eService using your SingPass
2. Select your applicant category:
   • EP / S Pass holder
   • Singapore Citizen
   • PR
   • Foreign Student
3. Select who you are applying for: yourself, spouse/children, or parents
4. Download and complete required forms and upload them to the portal
5. Upload all supporting documents within 7 working days
6. Pay the PR application fee

Tip: Engage a licensed PR agent to improve your chances of approval.

Documents Required for Singapore PR Application

Applicant:

• Passport and immigration pass
• Personal details pages of passport
• Highest educational certificates
• Passport-sized digital photo
• Signed declaration form

Spouse:

• Marriage certificate
• Children’s birth certificates or adoption papers
• Divorce or custody papers if applicable

Children:

• Birth certificate or household census
• Adoption papers if applicable

Foreign students:

• Educational certificates and transcripts
• Vocational trade certificates or licenses
• Parents’ passports and birth certificate showing parentage

Singapore PR Application Timeline & Success Tips

Timeline for Singapore PR Application

A typical PR application takes 4 to 6 months to process. However, some cases may take longer depending on document completeness and the applicant’s profile.

• Checking status: Use the ICA eService portal
• Approval: You will receive an official letter outlining the outcome and next steps
• PR Collection: Appointments can be booked online to collect your PR ID card at the Permanent Resident Services Centre
• Hard copies: Some documents must be presented in person, with additional fees if required

Profiles With Highest PR Success Rates

PR applications are highly competitive. Less than 5,000 applicants are approved yearly. However, certain profiles show higher chances of success:

1. Global Investor Program (GIP) applicants
   Entrepreneurs or investors contributing directly to Singapore’s economy
   Typically have significant business expenditure or job creation
2. EntrePass holders
   • Entrepreneurs establishing investment vehicles or businesses in Singapore
   • Demonstrates direct economic contribution and job creation for locals
3. Foreign professionals on EP / S Pass
   Running businesses in Singapore, hiring local staff, or making substantial local contributions

Why PR Applications Get Rejected

Understanding rejection reasons helps you prepare a stronger application. Two common causes:

1. Insufficient paperwork

• Missing fields in the online application form automatically triggers rejection
• Incorrect documents submitted, e.g., providing professional certifications instead of required tertiary degrees

2. Case isn’t compelling enough

• ICA evaluates integration, contribution, and commitment
• For example, an EP holder in a strategic position with tertiary qualifications, paying taxes, and volunteering may still be rejected if the impact is not clear
• Only a small fraction of the 177,100 EP holders in Singapore are likely to be approved in any given year

After a PR Rejection

1. Wait at least 6 months before reapplying
2. Enhance your case:
   • Increase your salary
   • Acquire property in Singapore
   • Contribute to community or society
   • Further your education or skills
3. No limit on resubmissions – many law-abiding, eligible applicants are rejected multiple times
4. Strategy: Consider upgrading your EP to an EntrePass or investing in the local economy to demonstrate direct contributions

Why is My Singapore PR Application Rejected

If your Singapore Permanent Residency (PR) application has been rejected, you should re-apply. Re-applying should not be taken lightly because if you are rejected again, your chances will be lower. Moreover, you will have to endure the long waiting time once more.

There are 2 key reasons why your Singapore PR is rejected:

1. Rejection due to insufficient paperwork

While the Immigration and Checkpoints Authority (ICA) does not specify exact criteria for approval or rejection, valid reasons exist for rejecting a Singapore PR application.

Missing information in online form submission

ICA uses online submission of forms. Once the system detects empty values, the application will be automatically rejected.

Mismatch of compulsory documents

For example, the system asks for a degree, but you have provided a professional certification.

2. Rejection because your case just isn’t compelling enough

Back to basics, ICA evaluates your integration into society, potential contribution, and commitment to Singapore.

As an EP holder, you would be in a strategic management level position at work, with a tertiary or degree qualification, pay taxes, and maybe volunteer or are part of a society. What else?

Consider this: You are just 1 out of 177,100 (as of Dec 2020) employment pass holders in Singapore.

To stand out, our best suggestion is to directly invest in the economy and upgrade your work visa to a more “prestigious” EntrePass.

Our Thoughts on PR Strategy

Singapore is not closed off to foreigners; the key is direct contribution and societal integration.

• Active contribution: Running a business in Singapore, employing locals, and engaging in economic activity are highly valued
• High-paying jobs alone are insufficient – authorities focus on tangible benefits to Singaporeans
• Compelling application: A well-drafted application emphasizing your strengths, achievements, and value proposition is critical
• Licensed service providers can assist in crafting applications aligned with ICA expectations

Conclusion: How to Maximise Your PR Success

1. Invest in Singapore’s economy: Businesses and investments that directly benefit Singapore are highly regarded
2. Integrate socially: Engage in local community activities and networking
3. Document thoroughly: Ensure all forms, certificates, and proof of contributions are complete and accurate
4. Consider professional help: A licensed PR agent can enhance your application strategy based on insider insights

Singapore PR remains highly competitive but achievable for individuals who actively contribute, integrate into society, and demonstrate long-term commitment. Following a structured approach and understanding ICA’s expectations can significantly increase your chances of success.