An island country that strikes a unique balance between nature and futuristic technology, Singapore attracts Indians in droves, both as tourists and immigrants. The fact that its per capita GDP was around USD 84,000 in 2023 is another reason why Indians are keen on acquiring Singapore citizenship. The country also scores high on safety, educational and professional opportunities and political stability. This blog will detail the process of obtaining Singapore citizenship for Indians.
Who is eligible to get Singapore citizenship?
You must satisfy one of these eligibility criteria for Singapore citizenship before commencing the application process:
- You must be at least 21 years of age and a permanent resident (PR) in Singapore for no less than 2 years. In this case, you can apply for Singapore citizenship for yourself as well as your family.
- You should have been in a marital relationship with a Singapore citizen for at least 2 years. Additionally, you should have been in the country as a permanent resident (PR) for 2 years or more.
- You are not married, not yet 21 years and a Singapore citizen is your biological or adoptive parent. Your Singapore citizenship application needs to be sponsored by your parent, in this case.
- You have been studying in Singapore for over three years (with at least one year as a PR) and must pass at least one national exam (i.e. PSLE, GCE ‘N’/‘O’/‘A’ levels). Alternatively, you can be in the Integrated Programme.
- You are a PR and an older parent of a Singaporean citizen.
You can also satisfy the eligibility for Singapore citizenship if you sign up for the Global Investor Program. This can prove your intent towards enhancing the country’s economy and benefiting the local community.
Singapore citizenship application process
Here’s how to apply for Singapore citizenship once you are sure of your eligibility:
- Depending on your particular situation, you or your spouse, parent or child will need to visit the Immigration and Checkpoints Authority (ICA) website.
- Then, aided by Singpass (short for Singapore Personal Access, a digital identity system for Singapore citizens and residents), you or the sponsor must log in to the portal of e-Service. If below 15 years, student PRs can apply by taking the non-Singpass route.
- Fill in the application form accurately and don’t miss anything. Upload the documents asked for on the portal too.
- Pay the processing fee online via one of these channels: MasterCard, Visa, AMEX, internet direct debit or PayNow. Save the receipt carefully.
- While your application for Singapore citizenship is undergoing review, you may be asked to interview with ICA authorities.
- You will be sent a notification that informs you about the application’s result. It usually takes a few months. You can also check the outcome on MyICA.
- In case of a positive outcome, an In-Principle Approval will be sent to you. After attending a formal oath-taking ceremony, a citizenship certificate will be conferred on you.
Documents required to apply for Singapore citizenship
There are many Singapore citizenship documents required for application. Some typical requirements are as follows:
- Personal: Passport, latest photo (passport-size, colour), certificates of birth, marriage, etc.
- Family: Divorce certificate, consent letter from ex-spouse for minors in joint custody, custody papers, death certificate of ex-spouse or children from past marriages
- Education: Educational transcripts and certificates, professional licenses, skill certificates, membership certificates
- Employment: Letter from present employer (not older than 3 months), last 6 months’ salary slips, income tax receipts from last 3 years
- If self-employed, you must provide a registration certificate, balance sheets and profit-loss statements from the last 3 years.
- Other (if applicable): National Service certificate, transcript, testimonial
Processing fee to apply for Singapore citizenship as Indians
If you are wondering about the fee required for obtaining Singapore citizenship for Indians, this table explains it clearly:
Category
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At the time of submission
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After formalities are completed
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PRs who are adults, as well as their kids
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S$100 (application)
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S$70 (citizenship certificate)
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Kids born overseas to Singapore citizens
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S$18 (application)
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S$10 (identity card – new citizens of at least 15 years are eligible)
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Other kids born in or outside Singapore
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S$100 (application)
|
S$70 (citizenship certificate)
S$10 (identity card – new citizens of at least 15 years are eligible)
|
Does Singapore allow dual citizenship?
You are not allowed to hold dual citizenship in Singapore as per the country’s laws. India does not condone dual citizenship either.
Rejection of Singapore citizenship: Reasons and ways to avoid
It is essential to meet Singapore citizenship requirements closely to maximise the possibility of your application’s success. The following are some common reasons behind application rejection:
- Poor application quality: Incomplete application forms, as well as those containing errors or discrepancies, can get rejected. Not submitting necessary, authentic or properly scanned documents might also be an issue.
- Inadequate economic contribution: Not being able to prove stable employment or business ownership is another key rejection cause. Submit all essential documents that show you contribute to the economy sufficiently.
- Lack of socio-cultural integration: If you don’t put in enough effort towards integrating with the local society and culture, your application might face rejection.
- Not following the latest rules: Rules and policies associated with Singapore citizenship keep changing from time to time. Not following the same can lead to application rejection.
- Criminal history: If you were previously convicted of any crime or are under investigation, the authorities might not honour your application.
Conclusion
Obtaining Singapore citizenship requires you to follow a number of rules and carry some essential documentation. While the process may be long, it offers a chance to integrate with one of the most advanced countries in the world.
Even a holiday in Singapore offers much for Indian nationals, from exploring Gardens by the Bay and enjoying thrills at Universal Studios to shopping at Clarke Quay. Whether you’re travelling frequently for citizenship-related processes or simply visiting for leisure, a travel insurance policy can provide significant financial protection.
Comprehensive travel insurance for Singapore covers flight delays, cancelled bookings, lost luggage and even medical emergencies.
FAQs
- Is there any way for Indians to acquire Singapore citizenship fast?
No, there is no shortcut for this. You must be a permanent resident in the country for a minimum of 2 years before applying.
- Is it allowed to hold dual citizenship in Singapore as Indians?
No, in Singapore, you cannot enjoy dual citizenship. India doesn’t offer this option either. Hence, you will no longer be an Indian citizen post-embracing Singapore’s citizenship.
- What kind of benefits does Singapore citizenship for Indians offer?
You get access to voting rights, subsidised education and healthcare, visa-free travel to 190+ countries, more job opportunities and property purchase.
Disclaimer: The information provided in this blog is for educational and informational purposes only. It may contain outdated data and information regarding the topic featured in the article. It is advised to verify the currency and relevance of the data and information before taking any major steps. ICICI Lombard is not liable for any inaccuracies or consequences resulting from the use of this outdated information.