Singapore offers various schemes for obtaining Permanent Residency (PR) to different groups of foreigners based on their qualifications, professional background, and family ties. These PR schemes include:
1. Professionals, Technical Personnel, and Skilled Workers Scheme (PTS)
- Who can apply: Foreign professionals who are currently working in Singapore under an Employment Pass, S Pass, Personalised Employment Pass (PEP), Tech.Pass, ONE Pass, and other qualifying passes.
- Criteria:
- Having a stable job in Singapore.
- Salary level, duration of employment, and employer reputation are considered.
- Contributions to Singapore’s economy and potential to integrate into the local society.
- Benefits:
- The most common route for foreign professionals to become Singapore PR.
- Eligibility to apply for citizenship after two years.
2. Global Investor Programme (GIP)
- Who can apply: High-net-worth individuals and entrepreneurs who wish to invest significantly in Singapore.
- Criteria:
- Minimum investment of SGD 2.5 million in a new business, expansion of an existing business, or approved funds.
- A solid business track record and entrepreneurial background.
- Benefits:
- Fast-tracked PR status through substantial investment.
- Supports the establishment of a business in Singapore.
3. Foreign Artistic Talent Scheme (ForArts)
- Who can apply: Foreign artists, musicians, actors, and other professionals in the arts and culture sector.
- Criteria:
- A recognized track record of exceptional achievements in your field.
- Potential to contribute to Singapore’s arts and culture scene.
- Benefits:
- Offers PR to individuals who can enhance Singapore’s reputation as a cultural hub.
4. Sponsored Scheme (Family Ties)
- Who can apply: Foreign spouses, children, or parents of Singapore citizens or Permanent Residents.
- Criteria:
- Spouse must be legally married to the sponsor.
- Children must be under 21 years old and unmarried, while parents can also be sponsored under certain conditions.
- Benefits:
- Offers family members a straightforward route to becoming PR.
5. Foreign Student Scheme
- Who can apply: Foreign students who have studied in Singapore with criteria below.
- Criteria:
- Students who have completed at least two years of study in Singapore and passed a national exam like the PSLE, GCE ‘N’, ‘O’, or ‘A’ levels.
- Benefits:
- Provides young foreign students a pathway to PR if they show potential to integrate into Singapore society.
PR Application Process
- PR applications are submitted online via the Immigration and Checkpoints Authority (ICA) website.
- Documentation such as identity papers, employment records, education certificates, and proof of family ties is required.
- The processing time can take several months, and approval is 100% dependent on the ICA’s decision.
Benefits of Singapore PR
- Ability to live, work, and study in Singapore without the need for additional work permits or visas.
- Access to Central Provident Fund (CPF) contributions.
- Eligibility for subsidised public housing, healthcare, and education.
- Eligibility to apply for Singapore citizenship after two years.
Each PR scheme has different requirements, so choosing the one that aligns best with your personal or professional circumstances is important.
