Must-Read Singapore PR Application Tips for Foreigners and Expatriates

If you are a foreigner or expatriate working in Singapore, you may wonder if it is possible to obtain Singapore Permanent Residence (PR). The good news is that it is possible, and this blog post will provide you with PR application tips on how to maximise your chances of getting a successful pr application approved.

The Singapore PR application process is relatively straightforward, but it is crucial to ensure that you submit all the required documents. The documents you need to provide depend on your nationality and occupation. Generally, you will need to provide a copy of your passport, employment contract, proof of income, and a copy of your birth certificate.

It is important to note that the Singapore authorities are looking at whether you meet the eligibility criteria and whether you will be able to contribute to Singapore society. In addition, not many sources mention this, but the ultimate goal of any approval is to build up the pool of potential Singapore citizens in the long run.

What is the Singapore PR application process like for foreigners and expatriates? 

Applying for Singapore PR is relatively straightforward, but there are a few key PR application tips and information to keep in mind.

First, all applicants must be at least 21 years of age and have a valid passport.

Second, they must have held a Work Permit or Employment Pass for six months. Alternatively, students may apply to become permanent resident international students. This naturally depends on your entry permit type.

Finally, they must submit a completed application form and supporting documents such as educational qualifications and employment records.

Once the PR application is received, it will be reviewed by the Immigration & Checkpoints Authority (ICA).

If all requirements are met in the past, you have to head down for an interview with an Immigration Officer. The officer would assess your suitability for PR based on your age, education, employment history, family ties, and financial status.

However, this process has since been changed to a strictly online-only application. You will no longer need to visit an ICA office to apply for PR.

The entire process previously took around two to three months. Given the volume of foreigners applying, immediate or future applications now take much longer to get a confirmation on your PR status.

The Fierce Competition to Getting Granted PR Status

The competition to become a Singapore Permanent Resident is tough.

Firstly, you’re competing with others for limited vacancies – ICA grants new PR status to about 30,000 individuals each year.

And according to most estimates, about 150,000 applicants are considered for these slots.

As expected, the government is strict in its selection to ensure the right people are approved. Standards are high, and the authorities are highly selective.

However, if you meet the criteria and can submit a robust application, you stand a good chance of being successful.

So don’t be discouraged – keep pushing forward, and you may achieve your goal of becoming a Singapore PR.

Make Sure You are Clear About the Various Singapore PR Schemes

The Singapore government offers a lot of schemes for foreign professionals, which can be confusing and difficult to determine the required documents.

We’ve listed down some of the more common schemes based on your work pass that may be applicable below:

Professional, Technical Personnel and Skilled Workers scheme (PTS scheme)

The Professional, Technical Personnel and Skilled Workers scheme (PTS scheme) is meant for foreign professionals working in Singapore with an Employment Pass, S Pass, or Personalised Employment Pass.

The application process is done through Form 4A. You will need to submit the following documents: your passport, a recent photograph, your employment pass or work permit, your resume, and your academic qualifications.

If you are married, you must also include your marriage certificate and your spouse’s passport.

Spouse of a Singapore citizen or Singapore PR

If you are a Singapore citizen or Singapore PR spouse, you can apply under the sponsor scheme. This involves submitting a Form 4SC, along with other required documents.

Student Pass

If you’re studying in Singapore on a student pass and have completed national exams such as the PSLE, GCE’ N’/’O’ / ‘A’ levels or the Integrated Programme (IP), you can apply for a long-term visit pass under the student scheme.

You must submit a Form 4B application to the Immigration & Checkpoints Authority (ICA) and the required documents to apply. You can download the explanatory notes and document list from ICA here.

If your application is successful, you will be granted a long-term visit pass that allows you to stay in Singapore for your studies. This pass is renewable, and you can apply for it anytime during your course of study.

Global Investor Programme

The Global Investor Programme (GIP) is a fast-track route for wealthy individuals and families to obtain Singapore Permanent Residence (PR).

Applicants must make a qualifying investment of at least S$2.5 million in a new or existing business in Singapore and must also have a business track record.

Successful applicants might be granted PR in as little as six months. The GIP is an attractive option for those looking to relocate to Singapore with their family. The country offers several notable benefits, such as low taxation, excellent infrastructure and a high standard of living.

However, applicants should know that the GIP is a competitive programme, and places are limited. It is crucial to ensure that your application is well-prepared and meets all the requirements.

Foreign Artistic Talent Scheme

The Foreign Artistic Talent Scheme (ForArts) allows outstanding international arts professionals and foreign artists of exceptional talent the ability to apply for Singapore PR. The scheme is open to artists in all disciplines, including but not limited to music, dance, theatre, visual arts, literature and film.

To be eligible for ForArts, applicants should be internationally renowned in their field or able to contribute to the vibrancy of Singapore’s arts scene. They must also have a valid offer of employment or collaboration from a Singapore-based arts organisation.

The ForArts application process is jointly managed by ICA and the National Arts Council (NAC). Interested applicants should first approach a NAC-appointed Arts Consultant to discuss their plans and assess their eligibility for the scheme.

If you are successful, you will be granted a three-year work pass to live and work in Singapore. This special employment pass can be renewed, and you can submit your PR application form after five years of continuous stay in the country.

The 6 Documents Required in Every PR Application 

To apply for Permanent Residence (PR) in Singapore, you will need to submit the completed Singapore PR application online form along with the following documents:

1. A passport-size photograph of yourself
2. A copy of your birth certificate
3. A copy of your legal marriage certificate (if applicable)
4. A copy of your divorce certificate (if applicable)
5. A copy of your educational qualifications
6. A copy of your employment history, including your employment pass

As anyone applying for a passport can attest, the process can feel daunting. In addition to filling out the necessary forms, you must gather various documents, including proof of citizenship and identity.

And if any of these documents are in your native language, remember to get them translated to English before submitting them online. ICA will NOT translate them for you.

Most importantly, prepare these documents early. You never want to wait until the last minute and then discover that you’re missing a critical piece of paperwork, especially since you only have 7 days to complete your online submission.

That’s why it’s always best to start early and give yourself plenty of time to complete the process.

The Singapore Permanent Residence Application Online Process

For up-to-date information on what documents are required, check the ICA website. (link: https://www.ica.gov.sg/reside/PR/apply)

You can find the relevant appendix at the bottom of the page and download all the necessary documents.

The entire PR application process is now digital, with 2 options.

The first is the offline option, where you can download the various documents and upload them in pdf format when you’re ready. The second is using ICA’s PR application online by filling in the required fields.

If you decide to use the latter option, remember that there is a 7 days deadline to complete the PR application form, or it’ll be deemed invalid.

We cannot stress this enough, but ensure that you have everything ready and prepared before starting your Singapore PR application. This includes all your supporting documents.

We’ve heard of countless cases of potentially suitable candidates missing out on their Singapore PR status because of a missing required document. Especially essential items like your employment pass, entry permit, and national ID are items you should already have on hand.

This includes those of your spouse and unmarried children if you intend to apply as a family.

National Service Requirements for Male Singapore Permanent Resident

And while we’re on this topic, it is a national requirement that all male Singapore citizens fulfil at least two years of national service. This includes the sons of approved Singapore permanent residents.

Failing to do so when they’ve reached the legal age might lose one’s pr status, a fine, and imprisonment. The country takes a serious view on any Singapore citizen and Singapore PR who breach this requirement.

After these two years, they’ll continue to serve as an operationally ready national service individual for at least 10 more years.

So do take note of this national requirement before deciding to apply for Singapore PR. It is a lifetime commitment and should not be taken lightly.

How to prepare the necessary documents 

You can do a few key things to prepare the necessary PR application documents to maximise your approval chances.

First, be sure to include all required information and supporting documentation. Incomplete applications are often immediately rejected.

Second, take the time to review the requirements and ensure that you meet them. The more information you can provide to demonstrate your eligibility, the better.

Finally, be sure to proofread your application carefully before submitting it. Typos and other errors can create a negative impression and lead to your application being rejected.

Common Technical Personnel Mistakes to Avoid

Ultimately, it is vital to remember that the person vetting each PR application is an actual human officer. This person might not be well-versed in your industry, so you want to avoid jargon of any kind.

Clarity is vital in any application, but it is especially so when it comes to pr applications. The authorities need to understand your application and your merits to decide.

Using simpler words will help them to do this. It is also essential to be clear about your goals.

• What are you trying to achieve with your application?
• What are your skills and experience?

Be sure to answer these questions clearly and concisely. Clarity is essential to making a solid impression and will do wonders to getting your pr application approved.

How to Strengthen Your Application and Maximise Your Chances

It’s important to remember that a Singapore PR application isn’t just about all the required documents or supporting documents.

They want to see and consider the person behind these forms and what significant contributions they can give back to the country.

This is where having a good understanding of your strengths can give you the edge.

• What are you good at?
• What can you bring to the table?

Answering these questions will help you focus your PR application and make it more likely to be approved.

Most People Skip This Step to their Detriment

Another helpful tip is to consider including a cover letter.

This allows you to explain why you think you would be a good fit for the position and highlight any relevant experience or skills.

By taking the time to strengthen your application, you can increase your chances of getting approved and moving one step closer to your dream job.

Ace Your Singapore Permanent Residence Application

Read our Singapore PR application tips but still feel you need more help?

We’ve prepared an exclusive Singapore Permanent Residence Application programme to ensure that you have all the information and resources you need to help you get approved. We know the process can be daunting when you’re doing it alone. But with our online programme, we’re here for you every step of the way as you’ll have a comprehensive online course on how to apply and what to do to maximise your chances.

We walk through each requirement in detail, so there’s no chance of missing anything meaningful when submitting your application.

Alternatively, you can also arrange to meet one of our friendly consultants who can advise you on your unique and special circumstances. We’ll show you how to apply the 6D system to make your profile stand out.