Singapore Permanent Resident (PR) is a status so desired by many foreigners living in the country, that thousands apply and achieve PR status each year! This bustling city-state is home to about 530,000 permanent residents, yet not all attained their PR status the same way. There are various schemes for different groups of foreigners to apply for PR, like the Professionals/Technical Personnel & Skilled Worker (PTS) Scheme, Global Investor Programme (GIP), and Foreign Artistic Talent Scheme. Each scheme is suitable for a unique group – so it’s important that you apply using the right one. To help you find out your best route of application for Singapore PR, we give you a breakdown on all PR schemes in Singapore!
For working individuals
Individuals working in Singapore with an Employment Pass, Entre Pass, Personal Employment Pass or S Pass are eligible to apply through the Professionals/Technical Personnel & Skilled Worker (PTS) scheme. This is the scheme most broadly applicable to most foreigners who are planning to stay in the country for the long-term, because the criteria for application is simply that the individual holds any of these work passes and has been working in Singapore for at least 6 months.
To apply through the PTS scheme, you have to fill up the necessary forms, gather important documents and submit your application on the Electronic PR (e-PR) portal.
Read more about how to apply through the PTS scheme: Comprehensive Guide to PR and Citizenship Application in Singapore
However, while many can apply through this scheme, not every applicant gets approved. The Immigration and Checkpoints Authority (ICA) uses a stringent set of criteria to assess if a person is suitable for resident status in Singapore, such as age, marital status, financial well-being, educational qualifications, and so on. To increase your chances of approval and secure Singapore PR status, we recommend that you use a trusted PR application agency in Singapore that will strengthen your profile and facilitate your application process!
For Foreign Students
Foreign students pursuing an education in Singapore are also eligible to apply for PR status, as long as they have stayed in the country for more than two years at the time of application, and have passed at least one national exam (PSLE, GCE ‘N’, ‘O’, or ‘A’ levels) or are in the Integrated Programme (IP). Should you be eligible, you will also apply through the e-PR portal but using a different set of forms. Similarly, you will be subject to unspoken criteria for the approval of your application, such as your merits and institutions of education.
For Foreign Investors
The Global Investor Programme (GIP) is a way for foreign investors who are interested in starting a business or investing in Singapore to apply for PR status. This programme was previously available only to established business owners, but since 2020, the government has included next-generation business owners, founders of fast-growth companies, and family office principals in the scheme as well.
Should you qualify, you must apply directly to the Singapore Economic Development Board (EDB) and go through an interview.
For Foreign Artistic Talent
Singapore’s enthusiasm for developing the arts scene in the country has led to the establishment of the Foreign Artistic Talent Scheme, aimed towards foreign individuals who specialise in dance, art, photography, music, theatre, film or literature to apply for PR status. To apply, you must possess relevant training or education in your field of practice, professional experience and outstanding achievements, have made significant contributions to Singapore’s arts and cultural scene, and have concrete plans to participate in Singapore’s art scene in the future. Applicants will apply to the National Arts Council (NAC) using an application form and their CV.
Altogether, there are various methods through which you can make an application for Singapore PR status – whether you are holding a work pass, a foreign student, an investor, or specialising in the arts, there are suitable schemes to help you access PR status and live in Singapore for the long-term. Should you be unsure of your eligibility for application, we recommend that you consult a PR application agency in Singapore to find your bearings and file your application in the most direct manner. Experienced professionals will assess your profile and give you expert advice on how to move forward during your consultation!
Unsure of how to apply for Singapore PR status? Singapore Top Immigration is a trusted PR application firm in Singapore located in the Marina Bay District, dedicated to walking you through each step of the process. We provide Singapore PR application services for working individuals applying through the Professionals/Technical Personnel & Skilled Worker (PTS) scheme, and foreign students. Get in touch with us for a free consultation today.
