Singapore offers top-notch infrastructure, career opportunities, world-class education and a safe environment, all within a short flight from home. Applying for Permanent Residency (PR) is a logical next step for those planning to settle down there. Don’t worry if you aren’t sure where to start. Our blog will cover all the basics you need to know about becoming a permanent resident in Singapore.
What is Singapore PR?
Singapore PR doesn’t offer full citizenship rights. However, it provides long-term stability and access to several local benefits. It allows foreign nationals to live, work and study there without the need for ongoing visa renewals.
Approved applicants receive a Blue identity card and must hold a valid Re-Entry Permit (REP) to travel abroad while keeping their PR status. The REP is usually valid for five years and can be renewed if you continue to live or work in Singapore.
Benefits of getting permanent residency in Singapore
Singapore PR status comes with several long-term advantages. It gives you job flexibility by allowing you to work for any employer without needing a work pass like an EP or S Pass.
PR holders can access public housing by buying resale Housing and Development Board (HDB) flats, enjoy subsidised rates at public hospitals and clinics and get priority admission for their children in public schools.
Additionally, you can sponsor your spouse and unmarried children under 21 for PR, and after several years, apply for Singapore citizenship.
Singapore permanent resident eligibility & requirements
For the Singapore PR process, Indian applicants must fall under one of the categories defined by the Immigration and Checkpoints Authority (ICA). These include being the legally married spouse or unmarried child under 21 of a Singapore Citizen or PR, an aged parent of a Singapore Citizen, a holder of an Employment Pass, S Pass or EntrePass with stable employment in Singapore or a student who has lived in the country for at least two years and passed a national exam such as the GCE N, O or A levels.
Applicants under the Global Investor Programme must invest at least S$2.5 million in a local business or approved fund. In addition to these categories, ICA assesses applicants based on income, professional and educational background, duration of stay and level of integration into Singaporean society.
Types of Singapore PR pathways for Indians
Here are the main pathways to apply for PR in Singapore:
- Professional, technical personnel and skilled worker scheme (PTS scheme): This pathway is likely your best fit if you hold an Employment Pass, S Pass or Personalised Employment Pass and have been working in the country for a while.
- Foreign student scheme: Students who have been in Singapore for at least two years and passed a national-level exam like GCE N, O or A levels may apply under this category.
- Sponsored scheme: This applies to spouses, legally adopted children or stepchildren of Singapore citizens or PRs. The sponsor must show financial stability and a genuine intention to stay in the country.
- Global investor programme (GIP): This scheme is designed for high-net-worth individuals, and it requires a minimum investment of S$2.5 million in a local business or GIP-approved fund.
- Foreign artistic talent scheme: This path might suit you if you have earned recognition in fields like visual arts, music, dance, design or sports. You will need to demonstrate your achievements and commitment to contributing to Singapore’s cultural scene.
How to apply for Singapore PR?
The process of application for Singapore permanent residence is fully digital and managed via the ICA’s e-Service portal. The steps to apply are:
- Log in to ICA eServices using your Singpass.
- Choose the correct application type based on your status: working professional, student or family member.
- Fill out Form 4A and attach scanned copies of required documents.
- Pay the S$100 processing fee, which is non-refundable.
- Wait for processing. It takes about 4-6 months. The ICA may call you for an interview in some cases.
- If approved, complete formalities at the ICA building.
Necessary documents for getting PR in Singapore
To apply for Singapore PR, applicants must submit a valid passport with at least six months’ validity, recent passport-size photographs and a valid Employment Pass or Student Pass.
Required financial documents include payslips from the past six months, income tax assessments for the last three years and an employer recommendation letter.
Educational certificates and transcripts are needed, along with marriage or birth certificates if applying with family members. Self-employed individuals must provide business registration documents. ICA Form 4A and proof of current address in Singapore are also required.
Does Indian travel insurance work post getting Singapore PR?
Your insurance needs a shift once you become a Singapore PR. Indian travel insurance is generally meant for short-term trips and may no longer cover you effectively as a resident. It excludes local medical treatments or long-term health needs. It is best to switch to a Singapore-based insurer for better coverage, especially for hospitalisation or chronic care.
Conclusion
Getting Singapore PR is a smart move for Indians seeking long-term settlement. It makes life in Singapore smoother and sets you up for future citizenship if that is your goal. Just make sure you understand the Singapore PR process, prepare your documents properly and consider updating your travel insurance for Singapore once you make the switch.
FAQs
- How do I start the PR application Singapore process?
Begin your PR application in Singapore online through the ICA portal. Just log in with Singpass, fill out Form 4A, upload your documents and pay the fee.
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What are the main Singapore PR eligibility criteria I should know?
The Singapore PR criteria include your job type, income, education and how long you have lived in Singapore.
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How long does it take to get Singapore PR approved?
The PR application process typically takes between 4-6 months. However, processing time may vary based on individual profiles and document completeness.
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.