Singapore Permanent Resident (PR) - How To Apply in 2023

Are you a foreign business owner in Singapore? Or have you been working here long and wish to attain Singapore Permanent Resident (PR) status? You're in the right place.

Becoming a Singapore PR is highly sought after as Singapore is one of the world's most secure and developed countries. Here we will go through the benefits as well as the process to apply for Singapore PR.

What Is a Singapore Permanent Resident (PR)

Singapore Permanent Resident (PR) is an immigration status granted by the Singapore government. In terms of privilege enjoyed, it is second only to Singapore citizens. Notable differences are being unable to vote or hold public office and more limited medical and housing benefits. 

Benefits of Becoming a Singapore Permanent Resident (PR)

There are many benefits to becoming a Singapore PR. Here are some of them:

• Obtaining Permanent Resident (PR) status in Singapore grants you the freedom to reside, work, and travel to and from the country without visa limitations
• Singapore PRs are exempt from applying for new work visas, like the Employment Pass (EP)
• Singapore PRs are entitled to Central Provident Fund (CPF) contributions from their employers and have the opportunity to purchase resold public HDB housing in Singapore
• Singapore PR status provides the option to pursue Singapore Citizenship in the future, offering access to one of the world's most powerful passports.

Types of PR Schemes

Permanent Residency in Singapore is offered through three different schemes. The most common route is the Professionals/ Technical Personnel and Skilled Worker Scheme (PTS), catering to foreign professionals already residing and working in Singapore. The other two options are the Global Investor Programme (GIP) for foreign investors willing to invest S$2.5 million in the country's economy and the Foreign Artistic Scheme for renowned artists in various fields.

In the past, acquiring Permanent Residency was more straightforward; however, recent measures to control the foreign population have led to a significant drop in PR approvals.

Among the schemes, the PTS is the simplest and quickest way to obtain Singapore Permanent Residency. The GIP, while having a high approval rate, is restricted to wealthy individuals with significant investments. The Foreign Artistic Scheme's approval chances are limited unless you are an internationally recognized and acclaimed artist.

How to Qualify for Singapore PR

Professional, Technical Personnel, and Skill Worker Scheme (PTS Scheme)

Applicants must have a minimum of two years of uninterrupted employment in Singapore and possess a valid Employment Pass or S Pass. Moreover, meeting additional criteria, like demonstrating good moral conduct and being under 40 years old (in the case of the Professional, Technical Persons, and Skilled Workers Scheme), is essential for eligibility.

💡 Tip: Find out more about the different Work Visas and Passes in Singapore

Global Investor Programme (GIP)

Singapore's Global Investor Programme (GIP) presents an exceptional opportunity for foreign investors to acquire Singapore Permanent Residence status. By making a substantial investment of 2.5 million Singapore Dollars in an approved business entity or funds within 6 months of receiving preliminary approval, investors can become eligible. Though the PR application process may be more complex for investors compared to individuals, the benefits are well worth it. With Singapore's renowned business ecosystem and top-notch infrastructure, this remarkable opportunity opens doors for investors to achieve both personal and professional growth.

Foreign Artistic Scheme (ForArts)

Jointly launched by the National Arts Council (NAC) and the Immigration and Checkpoints Authority of Singapore (ICA), this scheme provides a pathway for foreign individuals who have demonstrated exceptional expertise in their artistic field to stay in Singapore as PRs. To be eligible for Singapore PR, applicants must present evidence of recognition as an artist in their home country, along with international experience or qualifications, which will be carefully evaluated by both the ICA and NAC before considering their application.