How To 101: Which PR Schemes Are You Eligible For?
Every year, thousands of people seek permanent residency in Singapore, but the application process varies among applicants. Those who wish to obtain Permanent Resident status in Singapore can submit their applications along with their spouse and unmarried children below 21 years old.
Singapore offers multiple schemes to grant permanent residence, attracting individuals from diverse backgrounds to establish their lives in the country. Known for its stability and advanced development, Singapore has earned a reputation as one of the most prosperous countries in Asia.
Continue reading to discover the various categories of PR schemes offered in Singapore and select the most suitable option that aligns with your requirements and situtation.
Professional, Technical Personnel and Skilled Workers Scheme (PTS Scheme)
This is the highly sought-after and widely favoured scheme for expats to gain permanent residency in Singapore. The Professional Technical and Skilled (PTS) Worker Scheme allows individuals holding Employment Pass, EntrePass, PEP, and S Pass to apply for Singapore PR. This scheme permits applications to include their spouse and unmarried children below 21 years of age.
While children above 21 years of age and parents or parents-in-law are not classified as dependents, they can still apply for a Long Term Visit Pass, which is valid for up to 5 years and can be renewed, ensuring that families can remain together.
Your educational qualifications will play a crucial role in this application, making it particularly suitable for foreign professionals holding an Employment Pass.
To be eligible for the PTS Scheme, you must meet the following criteria:
Hold one of the passes mentioned earlier - Employment Pass, EntrePass, PEP or S Pass
Possess qualifications from reputable institutions
Global Investor Program (GIP)
This scheme is specifically designed for foreign investors aiming to drive investment and business expansion in Singapore. Individuals interested in applying for Singapore PR under the GIP must meet certain requirements.
These include having a significant business track record and a successful entrepreneurial background. Additionally, criteria such as operating a company with an annual turnover of at least S$200million are essential. The specific details regarding the criteria may vary based on individual profiles, whether one is an established business owner or a next-generation business owner, among the other factors. Spouse and unmarried children below 21 years old of GIP applicants are also eligible for Singapore PR.
To be eligible for the GIP scheme, you must apply to one of these three investment options:
Demonstrate an investment of minimally S$10 million in a new business entity or in the expansion of an existing business operation in Singapore
Invest S$25 million into an Economic Development Board (EDM) registered GIP fund that also invests in Singaporean businesses; or
Establish a Singapore-based Single-Family Office with Assets-Under-Management (AUM) of at least S$200 million, where minimally S$50 million must be deployed in any of the 4 investment categories of
Equities, REITS, or business trusts listed on Singapore-approved exchanges;
Qualifying debt securities listed on MAS’ enquiry system;
Funds distributed by Singapore-licensed/ registered managers or financial institutions; and
Private equity investments in non-listed, Singapore-based operating companies
In addition to these criteria, there are further requirements that must be met for applying under the Global Investor Programme (GIP) for Singapore PR. These include having a commendable business track record and submitting a comprehensive business proposal and investment plan, which must be adhered to and achieved within the following years.
It is also important to note that the Singapore PR application under GIP is handled by the Singapore Economic Development Board, rather than the Immigration and Checkpoints Authority (ICA).
Foreign Artistic Talent Scheme (ForArts)
Since 1991, the Foreign Artistic Talent Scheme (ForArts) has been in place to acknowledge the invaluable contributions and cultural impact of exceptional international arts professionals in enhancing Singapore’s arts scene. This scheme is specifically designed to enable these talented individuals to obtain Singapore PR over time.
However, it is important to highlight that while the National Arts Council and Singapore Immigration and Checkpoints Authority (ICA) manage this scheme, the ultimate decision regarding your PR applications lies within the ICA.
To be eligible for the ForArts Scheme, you must meet ALL the following minimum critieria:
Posses relevant training/ education in your field of practice
Posses relevant professional experience, with outstanding achievements in the field of Performing Arts, Visual Arts, Literary Arts, Design and/ or Media
Have made significant contributions to Singapore’s arts and cultural scene, including a strong track record of local engagements at leadership level
Have concrete future plans to be involved in Singapore’s arts and cultural sector
Besides having the ability to play a critical role in advancing local arts and culture, and the commitment to do so, eligible applicants must furthermore demonstrate good character and the ability to be a role model for their peers in order to be considered favourably for support under this scheme.
Sponsorship Scheme
The Sponsorship scheme allows individual who are legally married to, or an unmarried child below 21 years old of a Singapore citizen or PR, or a PR-aged parent to obtain their Singapore PR.
There are several factors influencing the outcome of your application - family ties, profile, integration, accomplishments, contributions. It is important to note that attempting to enter into sham marriages as a means to obtain Singapore permanent residence is strongly discouraged. This scheme should only be utilised if you are in a legally recognised marriage.
Foreign Students Scheme
Foreign students, specifically those holding S Pass student visas, have the opportunity to apply for Singapore PR, provided they meet certain requirements.
To be eligible for the Foreign Students scheme, you must meet the following criteria:
Resided in Singapore for more than 2 years at the point of application
Passed at least one national exams - PSLE, GCE ‘N’/‘O’/’A’ levels or are in the Integrated Programme (IP)
The application will be evaluated based on individual merits, so it is important to highlight your academic achievements and submit all relevant documents. Providing evidence of your leadership roles and integration can also enhance your chances of success.
Consult Expatriates Asia For Your Singapore PR Application
In summary, the Singapore government actively encourages professionals and other foreigners who can make positive contributions to the country’s developments and economy to consider various options for obtaining permanent residence. There are multiple permanent residence schemes in Singapore that cater to different circumstances and requirements. If you are uncertain about how to initiate your Singapore Permanent Resident application, it is advisable to seek guidance from our agency.
With Expatriates Asia, our knowledgeable consultants will provide comprehensive assistance, guiding you through each step of the application process. We will thoroughly review your profile to ensure that you apply for Singapore PR under the most suitable scheme.
Contact us today to determine which Singapore PR scheme aligns with your needs and aspirations!