Relocating to Singapore as an expatriate comes with several choices about legal residency, especially when you have a family. Two primary options are the Permanent Resident (PR) status and a Work Pass. While both offer the chance to live and work in Singapore, they differ in significant ways, particularly if you’re considering long-term residency or securing your children’s potential birth right to PR status. Your decision could impact your family’s needs in the future.
Below, we break down the differences to help expats decide which option might be better suited for their situation.
The difference between PR and a work pass
The key distinction between PR and a Work Pass lies in their long-term stability and benefits. A Work Pass, which includes options like the Employment Pass (EP) and S Pass, is directly tied to your job in Singapore. It allows you to work for a specific employer and stay in the country as long as your employment is valid. However, if you lose your job or decide to switch careers, you may need to apply for a new Work Pass, which can cause uncertainty.
On the other hand, PR status is not tied to your employment. It offers the flexibility to work for any employer without needing additional approval. As a PR, you can also start your own business and contribute to Singapore’s Central Provident Fund (CPF), a key social security savings scheme.
Why PR may be better for families
If you are planning to stay in Singapore long-term with your family, PR may offer more advantages. First, the benefits of Singapore PR include greater access to public services such as healthcare and education. For families with children, this can be a significant factor. PR holders’ children can be enrolled in local public schools, which are often preferred for their quality and affordability compared to international schools. In contrast, children of Work Pass holders may face restrictions or higher tuition fees.
Another benefit for families is the ability to sponsor your spouse or children for PR, ensuring that your entire family has long-term residency security. This differs from Work Pass holders, who may face challenges if their spouse or children want to remain in Singapore should their work pass be terminated.
Work pass flexibility and restrictions
For expats who are in Singapore for a short-term stay or prefer the flexibility of moving between countries, a Work Pass may offer more convenience. Work Passes are easier and faster to obtain compared to applying for PR. Furthermore, there are different types of Work Passes catering to specific skills and industries, giving you options depending on your qualifications.
However, Work Pass holders face certain limitations. The pass is job-dependent, meaning your family’s stay in Singapore is also tied to your job security. If you lose your job or choose to leave the country, your Work Pass will no longer be valid, and your family may need to leave as well. The renewal process for Work Passes is also subject to approval and may require you to meet certain income thresholds or criteria set by the Ministry of Manpower.
Long-term security with PR
For expats considering long-term residency in Singapore, PR provides a level of security that a Work Pass does not. While PR applications take longer to process and involve more documentation, the stability they provide may outweigh the initial effort. PR status is not revoked if you change jobs, ensuring that your family can remain in Singapore regardless of your employment status.
Additionally, after holding PR status for a number of years, you may be eligible to apply for Singapore citizenship. Citizenship offers the ultimate form of stability, including the right to vote and greater access to public services. PR is often seen as a stepping stone to eventual citizenship for expats who plan to make Singapore their permanent home.
Final considerations for expats with families
When deciding between PR and a Work Pass, expats should consider their long-term plans and their family’s needs. If you envision staying in Singapore for the foreseeable future and want greater access to services, PR is likely the better option. It offers security, flexibility, and the opportunity to fully integrate into Singaporean society.
For expats looking for a more temporary arrangement, the Work Pass offers an easier route to live and work in Singapore. It provides enough flexibility if you’re not sure about long-term plans, but you should be mindful of the potential challenges your family could face if your employment situation changes.
To explore which option might be best for your family, consult Singapore Top Immigration, a leading immigration agency that specialises in PR and Work Pass applications. Their experienced consultants can guide you through the process and ensure that you choose the most suitable path for your family’s future in Singapore.
