Singapore is one of the most important global cities for business, education, and cultural exchange, so living in Singapore may be interesting for an expatriate. In this paper, we uncover the merits of acquiring PR status in Singapore as this category of stay allows for extended stay, freedom of movement, and access to various public services. Nevertheless, this process might be intricate, and getting to know the rules and regulations of such work is crucial to achieving the best results possible. This basic guide to PR in Singapore will provide you with all the information and tips that you require to live in this country.
Why Pursue Permanent Residency in Singapore?
Before diving into the details, it’s essential to understand why so many people aspire to become permanent residents in Singapore. PR status grants you the ability to live and work in Singapore without the need for work permits or employment passes. It also allows you to purchase property, access healthcare subsidies, and enjoy a more secure future in this thriving city-state. If you’re asking yourself, “How can I get PR in Singapore?”—read on to learn more.
Eligibility Criteria for Singapore PR
Before one can apply for PR in Singapore, he or she has to go through the qualifying requirements with a keen eye. The Singapore government offers several pathways to PR, each catering to different groups of applicants:
- Employment Pass Holders: There are white-collar jobs for most of the people or workers with Employment Pass (EP) such as professionals, technical personnel, and skilled workers. To be eligible for the program you must have been employed in Singapore for not less than 6 months. The other factors that organizations use in the evaluation include job stability, income level, and contribution to the economy.
- S Pass Holders: Even if the applicant holds an S Pass which is for mid-level skilled workers, he or she can apply for PR. In addition like any holder of the EP, you should have been employed in Singapore for six months. All the documents regarding your educational qualifications your previous work experience and other skills that you have acquired will be considered at the time of application.
- Investors and Entrepreneurs: First it is the global Investor program that was earlier discussed whereby any high net worth person investing in the Singapore economy can apply for PR. This option is suitable for persons who have great business experience and capital and want to invest in a new or existing business in Singapore.
- Family Members of Singapore Citizens or PRs: The Family Scheme also known as the inclusion scheme is available to the spouse and unmarried children below the age of 21 years of a Singaporean citizen or a permanent resident. This also includes the aged parents of Singapore citizens, and possibly the grandparents too.
- Students: It means foreign students who wish to pursue their education in Singapore can apply for PR, though they need to fulfill other requirements, including residing in the country for a specific time and having good grades at school. This pathway is followed by candidates who may have further education yearnings or the desire to begin their working careers in Singapore.
Application Process and Required Documents
The PR application process in Singapore consists of several stages, which is why all the eventual documents have to be ready beforehand. Here’s a breakdown of the key stages:
- Submission of Application: Part II: Submission of Application The PR application form can be completed only on the ICA website by filling up the online form. Original documents and copies that will be required are your passports, employment records, income tax statements, and educational certificates.
- Processing Time: Note that after applying, the ICA takes approximately four to six months to review the application. During this period the authorities will consider you for your potential economic contribution, family status, and overall adaptation to life in Singapore.
- Outcome of Application: After you have applied, you will be notified of the status of your application. However, if your application is approved, then there may be some formalities that need to be fulfilled like interviews, biometrics, etc.
Conclusion
Applying for Permanent Residency in Singapore is a major achievement for any expatriate who plans to make a good future settle in the country. It might look like a complicated process, yet, once you get to know the eligibility criteria and documents necessary for application, you are ready to go. Whether you are dealing with your career or business, being a PR is a fulfilling way of establishing one’s permanent life in Singapore. Well then, if you are still pondering the question: how can I get PR in Singapore? —the response would be: you have to be patient and research well.
