How to Get Singapore PR

Did you know that immigrants make up more than 30% of Singapore’s population? Given the top-notch levels of education, health care, personal safety and quality of life in this highly developed country, it is no surprise that many people who move here want to stay forever.

If you’re thinking of becoming a permanent resident (PR) in Singapore, this guide will give you an overview of the documents you need to prepare and the steps you need to take to apply. There is also an FAQ section to put your questions to rest.

It is important to know that while there are many benefits to permanent residency, there are also responsibilities. For example, male PRs must register to serve in the National Services (unless they are exempt).

Like any major decision, seeking permanent residence in Singapore is not something you want to jump into without doing some research.

Ready to get started?

Are You Eligible for Permanent Residence in Singapore?

Almost all applicants seeking a Singapore permanent residence card must use the government’s Immigration and Checkpoint Authority (ICA) website for Electronic Permanent Residence to complete the application. This official website is called the e-PR or e-Service or system.

How do you get permanent residency in Singapore?

There are 5 cases in which you may be eligible to apply for Singapore PR status through the e-Service system:

1. You are married to a Singapore citizen or permanent resident.
2. You are an unmarried child under age 21, and
   • You were born within the context of a legal marriage including a Singaporean citizen or PR, or
   • You have been legally adopted by a citizen or PR.
3. You are an aged parent of a Singapore citizen.
4. You have an employment pass or S-pass.
5. You are a student studying in the country, and
   • You have resided in the country for more than 2 years, have passed at least one national exam (the PSLE or GCE N, O or A-Levels) or are in the Integrated Programme.

If one of the 5 cases above sounds like you, congratulations! You are eligible to apply. Everything you need to know about applying through the e-Service is covered in detail below.

Is your situation not described above? Don’t despair! There are other ways to become a PR that do not use the e-Service system, including:

• The Global Investor Programme.
  • Foreign investors can find detailed information on this path to residency by visiting the website of the Singapore Economic Development Board.
• The Foreign Artistic Talent Scheme (ForArts).
  • Professionals with outstanding achievements in the field of Performing Arts, Visual Arts, Literary Arts, Design or Media can apply through the National Arts Council (NAC).

This guide will focus solely on the 5 cases who can apply for permanent residence using the e-Service system.

If you’re only interested in travelling to the Lion City for a short time, this guide is not for you. Click here to find out how to get your Singapore tourist visa.

Applying for Singapore PR Using the e-Service or e-PR System

All 5 Singapore permanent residence applications mentioned above must be completed on the Electronic Permanent Residence website, called e-Service or e-PR, which you can find here.

Now let’s walk through the application process step by step.

1. Select your category.

The website opens with the phrase ‘I am a/an…” and has 4 options:

• • Employment Pass Holder
  • Singapore Citizen
  • Singapore Permanent Resident
  • Foreign Student

As you can see, if you are applying under the categories of spouse, child or aged parent, your sponsor (that is, your family member who is a local citizen or PR) must make the application on your behalf.

Select the option that describes you or your sponsor.

2. Log in.

All 5 categories of applicants must log in to the website using a SingPass except for foreign students. The SingPass may be your own (if you have an Employment Pass) or your sponsor’s.

If you are a student, you will be prompted to answer a short questionnaire to confirm that you are eligible. When you complete the questionnaire, you will be given access to the Singapore PR application.

3. Choose who you are applying for.

Depending on your situation, this may be:

• Myself
• Myself (with family)
• My Spouse and Child(ren)
• My Child(ren)
• My Parent(s)

The options that appear will depend on the category you are applying under.

Please note that the ‘Myself’ option only appears for students. If you are applying as an Employment Pass Holder, only the ‘Myself (with family)’ option will appear. Select this option even if you are not applying for your family.

Likewise, there is no option for a spouse without children, so if you are applying for a spouse, select ‘My Spouse and Child(ren)’ even if you are not applying for children as well.

4. Fill in the PR application form.

At this point, you will be given the option to download the application form or complete the online form directly on the platform.

It is recommended that you download the form, complete it electronically and upload the completed form.

5. Fill in the information on the Disclosure page.

This will include questions about your marital status, education, etc.

6. Give the required information for each person who appears on the Personnel List.

The people that appear will depend on the information from your Disclosure page. For example, if your marital status is single, no spouse will appear on your Personnel List.

7. Review all the information entered.

This step is optional, but highly recommended! At this stage you can still go back and make any corrections needed.

8. Upload required documents.

Your email address will be displayed in a pop-up box before you upload the documents. Make sure your email is correct before continuing.

Once you begin uploading documents, you will not be able to go back and change your information.

Only PDF and JPG documents are accepted, and the maximum file size is 2 MB per file.

An error message will appear if the upload fails.

Once all the documents are uploaded, click the ‘Return to e-service’ button.

Note: The documents needed for each PR category are explained in detail in the following section of this guide.

9. Make your payment.

The cost of applying for permanent residence in Singapore is 100 SGD. This is nonrefundable.

You can pay using one of the following:

• Visa or MasterCard (credit or debit card)
• American Express (credit card only)
• Internet Direct Deposit
• PayNow

Make sure that you have enabled pop-ups so you can see your receipt.

10. You will see a confirmation page that your application has been successfully submitted.

It’s a good idea to download a copy of your application form in PDF format. A link is provided so you can do so easily.

Tips for Filling Out the Singapore PR Application Online:

• Use a computer (not a mobile or tablet).
• When you complete the form, do not leave any fields blank. If there is a field that is not applicable to you, type in ‘NA’.
• All documents must be in English or accompanied by an official translation.
• Although only a digital copy of each document is required for the online application, keep the physical copy of all documents on hand just in case you are asked to provide them at a later date.
• If you move before you know the outcome of your application, make sure to change your residential address in the e-PR system. You will receive important notifications regarding your application through the mail.
• Do not begin the application until you are ready. You must finish the application and submit all the required documents within 168 hours (7 days) from the time you begin. Check which documents you need below.

Singapore Permanent Residency Requirements for All Applicants

Before you start your application, make sure to gather the required documents.

Your requirements depend on which category you are applying under. Each category is explained in detail below, but first there are some guidelines that apply to everyone.

Please note that all documents must be in English. You will need an official translation of any document not written in English. The translation may be provided by:

• The embassy of the country that issued the document.
• A notary public located in the country that issued the document or in Singapore.
• A private translator. In this case, the translation must be either:
  • Attested by the country that issued the document, or
  • Notarised by a notary public in said country or in Singapore.

Keep in mind that you need a digital copy of all documents since you will be uploading them to the website during the online application process. Make a digital copy by scanning the document and saving the file on your computer. Each file must be saved in PDF or JPG format with a maximum size of 2 MB.

All applicants must provide a digital passport-sized photo of themselves in keeping with the following guidelines:

• Photo size: 35 mm wide and 45 mm high without border. 400 by 514 pixels.
• Colour photograph taken against a plain white background with matt or semi-matt finish.
• Face must be between 25 mm and 35 mm from chin to the top of the head.
• Full face must be visible.
• No headgear, unless it is worn habitually in keeping with religious or racial customs. It must not cover any facial features.
• Photo must have been taken within the past 3 months.

Now, let’s get into the particulars of each category.

Required Documents for Spouses Seeking Permanent Residency in Singapore

If you are applying as a spouse of a Singapore citizen or PR, with or without accompanied children, you are required to present a digital copy of the following documents:

For you:

• Passport-sized photograph.
• Valid travel document (such as your passport) with valid Immigration Pass (this is granted to you when you enter the country; it is not the same as a visa). Passport pages showing personal details.
• Identity card, if applicable.
• Birth certificate, official household census list or family register showing both of your parents’ names.
• Certificate of name change (if you have ever changed your name).
• Birth certificate of child or children (if you have any) showing both parents’ names and child’s name, and adoption papers (if any).
• Divorce certificate or death certificate and custody papers for child or children from previous marriages (if you have any).
• Highest educational certificates, including all post-secondary/tertiary qualifications.

If you are employed, you should also include:

• Work pass (if applicable).
• A letter from your employer, addressed to the Controller of Immigration, stating the date you began employment and your position. It must also show your monthly salary for the past 6 months, including a breakdown of basic, overtime and allowance per month. The letter must be dated no more than 1 month before you submit your application.
• Payslips for the last 6 months.
• If you are self-employed, a valid Business Registration Certificate showing the names of all partners.
• If you are self-employed, an occupational license as needed for your employment.

For your sponsor (in this case, your spouse):

• Identity card.
• Official marriage certificate.
• If your spouse has any previous marriages, a divorce certificate or death certificate and custody papers for child or children from previous marriages (if any).
• A letter from your sponsor’s employer (same conditions as the letter from your employer).
• Payslips for the last 6 months.
• IRAS/CPF consent form. This allows the Immigration and Checkpoints Authority to obtain and verify your financial information with the Inland Revenue Authority of Singapore and the Central Provident Fund Board.
• If self-employed, a Business Registration Certificate and occupational license, as explained above.

Required Documents for Children to Become Permanent Residents of Singapore

If your child is under 21 years of age, not married, and you (as their parent) are a Singapore citizen or PR, you will need to submit digital copies of the following documentation:

For the child:

• A recent passport-style photo of the child.
• The child’s valid travel document (for example, passport) with a valid Immigration Pass (issued to the child by the ICA, Immigration and Checkpoints Authority, upon arrival in the country). The pages from the passport that display the child’s personal information.
• The child’s identity card, if applicable.
• The child’s birth certificate, official household census list or family register. Both parents’ names must be visible on the document.
• If the child has changed their name, official change of name certificate.
• The child’s adoption papers, if they are adopted.
• The child’s highest educational certificates, including all post-secondary qualifications.
• If the child is employed and has a work pass, include that as well.

For the sponsor (parent):

• Same requirements as the sponsor in the case of spouses. Please see above for details.

Required Documents for an Aged Parent of a Singapore Citizen to Become a PR

If your child is sponsoring you for residency, you will need to gather all the documents listed below.

Keep in mind that you need a digital copy of each document, which you can obtain by scanning the document and saving the file on your computer. You will upload these digital files to the application website.

For you:

• A passport-sized photograph of yourself.
• Your valid travel document, valid Immigration Pass, and your passport biodata page.
• Identity card, if applicable.
• If you have ever changed your name, your official name change certificate.
• Your official marriage certificate.
• Your spouse’s ID card or travel document, or their death certificate if applicable.
• Certificate of divorce or death in case of previous marriages.

If you are employed, you should also include the following:

• Work pass, if you have one.
• A letter from your employer that explains when you became an employee, your current position in the company and your monthly salary over the past 6 months. Each monthly salary should be divided into basic salary, overtime and allowance. The letter should be addressed to the Controller of Immigration and include the date. This date should be no more than 1 month before you submit your application.
• Payslips for the last 6 months.
• IRAS consent form (so that the Immigration and Checkpoints Authority can confirm the accuracy of your financial information).
• If self-employed, a valid Business Registration Certificate that includes the names of the partners.

For your sponsor (your son or daughter):

• Their identity card.
• Singapore Citizenship Certificate, if any.
• Birth certificate that is issued, signed and sealed by the authorities, along with change of name certificate, if applicable.
• Letter from their employer, with the same conditions as described in your documents.
• Payslips for the last 6 months.
• IRAS/CPF consent form.
• If self-employed, valid Business Registration Certificate with names of partners, and/or valid vocational license.
• Occupational license.
• Highest educational certificates, including all tertiary qualifications.

For sponsor’s siblings, if any:

• Birth certificates and citizenship certificates.
• Identity cards and travel documents.
• Highest educational certificates and all tertiary qualifications.

Required Permanent Residence Documents for Employment Pass or S Pass Holders

Please note that you can include the following people in your application:

• Your spouse.
• Unmarried children under 21 (born to you under a legal marriage or legally adopted by you).

You will need to upload a digital copy of the following documents:

• A passport-sized colour photo taken of you within the last 3 months.
• Valid travel document and passport bio page.
• Employment pass or S pass.
• Identify card, if you have one.
• Your birth certificate, official household census or family register showing both your parents’ names.
• Change of name certificate, if you have undergone a name change.
• Highest educational certificates, including all post-secondary certificates, transcripts, professional license or membership certificates as well as vocational trade certificates.
• Testimonials from former employer(s) including the nature and time of your employment and your last drawn basic salary, if any.
• Payslips from the last 6 months.
• Letter from your current employer to the Controller of Immigration. It should detail when you began working at the company, your current position and your monthly salary for the past 6 months. It must show the breakdown of basic salary, overtime and allowance per month. Make sure that you don’t ask for the letter too soon: you must submit your application no more than 1 month after the date visible on the employer letter.
• IRAS consent form, which authorises the authorities to confirm that your financial details are correct.
• For self-employed individuals, valid Business Registration Certificate that displays partners’ names, as well as an occupational license related to your job.

Please note that when you fill out the online application, you will be prompted to download a document called Annex A. Your employer will need to fill out this document with information regarding the nature of the company’s activities, such as products made, services rendered, etc. This does not mean that your company is responsible for sponsoring your application. It is just used to confirm that your employment information is correct.

If you are married, you also need:

• Official marriage certificate.
• If you have any previous marriages, a certificate of divorce or death.
• Custody documentation for children from previous marriages, if applicable.
• Your spouse’s highest educational certificates, as explained in the section above about your documents.

If you choose to include your spouse in the application, you must also supply his or her:

• Valid travel document, Immigration Pass and passport bio page.
• Birth certificate showing both parents’ names.
• Change of name certificate, if applicable.
• Identity card, if applicable.
• In case of previous marriages, divorce or death certificate and custody papers for children.

If you include your child or children, you must include their:

• Valid travel document, Immigration Pass and passport bio page.
• Birth certificate showing names of child and both parents.
• Adoption papers, if applicable.
• Change of name certificate, if applicable.

Required Documents for Student Applicants for PR in Singapore

• A passport-style photograph of yourself.
• Valid Immigration Pass, travel document and passport page with personal details.
• Identity card, if applicable.
• Birth certificate (or other accepted official document) showing both parents’ names.
• Change of name certificate, if applicable.
• Highest educational certificates, including all post-secondary qualifications. Also be sure to include your transcripts, professional license or membership certificates and vocational trade certificates.
• Valid travel documents and passport page with personal details from both of your parents.

Important Information on the National Service Liability

Before you decide to make your application, it is essential to know that all male citizens and permanent residents (PRs) of Singapore* are required to register in the National Service.

In the case of minors, male PRs are required to register for the National Service when they turn 16 and a half years old and are then scheduled for enlistment at age 18.

Make sure you understand how this may impact you and/or your family members.

*Currently, individuals who are granted residency through the Investor Scheme or Professionals/Technical Personnel and Skilled Workers Scheme are exempted.

Frequently Asked Questions

Now that you have the application process clear in your mind, you may have some questions about what comes next. Check out the answers to the most common questions below.

How Long Does It Take to Get Approved?

The processing time is usually 4 to 6 months if you have submitted all the correct documentation, but sometimes it takes longer.

How Do I Check My Singapore PR Status?

You can check up on your PR application status by visiting the e-Service website and clicking ‘Enquire Application Status’.

How Do I Know When I’ve Been Approved?

You will receive an acceptance letter in the mail. It will tell you the steps you must take to formalise and finalise your permanent residency. At the end of the process, you will be issued an Entry Permit.

How Does Singapore PR Renewal Work?

Once you are a PR, you can stay in the country indefinitely as long as you do not leave. If you wish to travel outside the country, you will need to apply for a Re-Entry Permit on the e-Service website.

The Singapore Re-Entry Permit does have an expiration date, so you must check to make sure yours is valid before travelling outside the country. If it has expired, you can renew your Re-Entry Permit on the e-Service website.

When Can I Apply for Singapore Citizenship?

You can apply for citizenship after 2 years of being a Permanent Resident.