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Guide to Singapore Permanent Resident Status (“PR”) Assessment Criteria (2024)

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Guide to Singapore Permanent Resident Status (“PR”) Assessment Criteria (2024)

Overview of PR Policy Changes

From June 26, 2024, the processing time for Singapore Permanent Resident (hereinafter referred to as "PR") applications has been shortened to within six months. These changes made by the Immigration and Checkpoints Authority (hereinafter referred to as "Immigration Authority" or "ICA") establishes a clear timeline for PR application reviews. Singapore Employment Pass (hereinafter referred to as “EP”) holders who prepare and submit all necessary documents meeting the requirements can expect to receive results within six months.

What is PR?

As defined on ICA’s official website, a PR is a foreigner who has been granted permanent resident status, allowing him/her to reside permanently in Singapore. Permanent residents aged 15 and above will be issued a Singapore blue identity card. If a permanent resident wishes to leave and re-enter Singapore, he/she must hold a valid re-entry permit.

What are PR Approval Criteria?

According to ICA’s guidelines: "ICA takes into account factors such as the individual's family ties to Singaporeans, economic contributions, qualifications, age, family profile, and length of residency, to assess the applicant's ability to contribute to Singapore and integrate into our society, as well as his or her commitment to sinking roots in Singapore."

The main factors considered in assessing whether to approve and grant permanent residency include the applicant's age, marital status, economic status, education, basic monthly salary, skills, industry, length of residence in Singapore, economic contribution and social contribution.

Although ICA does not disclose exact standards for approval, these criteria focus on contributions to Singapore, societal integration, and commitment to settling in Singapore. The following is a detailed interpretation provided by Kaizen for your reference.

  1. Age

    Age is a fundamental factor in PR applications. Statistics show that most approved applicants are aged between 21 and 40. Younger children studying in Singapore also have a higher likelihood of approval.

    Singapore faces low birth rates and an aging population, so Singapore is more inclined to attract young talents to live in Singapore. On the other hand, younger applicants are more likely to integrate into Singapore’s culture and contribute economically and socially over time.

    Apply for PR earlier to improve your chances of approval. While younger applicants are preferred, exceptional candidates of any age can still succeed.


  2. Commitment to Settling in Singapore

    a)
    Length of Residency

    While ICA does not specify a required duration of EP holding before applying for PR, it is advisable to hold an EP for at least two years and reside in Singapore for one year before applying. Applying too soon after arriving in Singapore may make it difficult to provide substantial evidence of your contributions to the country and your ability to integrate into Singaporean society. Without such proof, ICA may perceive the application as solely motivated by a desire to obtain PR or citizenship, which can make it challenging to convince them of your commitment to settling in Singapore.

    A longer residency demonstrates commitment and allows applicants to show substantial contributions to Singapore. Therefore, we recommend approaching your PR application with patience and making long-term plans for residing here.

    b)
    Marital and Family Status

    Factors such as having relatives living in Singapore, marital status, whether your spouse is living and working in Singapore, and whether your children are receiving education here are key considerations for PR approval.

    If your entire family has relocated to Singapore, it strongly demonstrates your commitment to settling in the country. Examples like having a newborn in Singapore or enrolling your children in local schools are additional positive factors.

    Given Singapore's low birth rate, the government seeks to increase the local population and improve demographic balance. Children who receive a localized education from a young age—or even from birth—are seen as potential future citizens who can bring renewed hope and contribute to the country’s growth, ensuring a more sustainable population structure.

  3. Contributions to Singapore and Social Integration

    a)
    Economic Contributions and Professional Skills

    Applicants working in critical or high-demand industries, holding senior roles, or possessing specialized skills with high incomes are more likely to receive PR approval.

    We advise you to fully commit to your company's growth, build stable business relationships in Singapore, and contribute to enhancing your company's performance. If you achieve significant business success or contribute to notable company growth, create employment opportunities, and make both direct and indirect contributions to local taxes, this will undoubtedly demonstrate your value to Singapore and significantly increase your chances of PR approval.

    Continuously improving yourself, demonstrating your commitment to personal development, and enhancing your professional skills is important. Enrolling in local professional courses, obtaining certifications, or consistently upgrading your skills also showcases your commitment to self-improvement, which is highly regarded by ICA. Singapore will recognize your determination to grow and your progress in the country. This is the type of talent Singapore seeks to attract.

    b)
    Social Integration and Community Contributions

    ICA assesses whether applicants genuinely align with Singapore's society and culture, and are committed to long-term settlement in the country.

    During your time in Singapore, we recommend that you to participate in community activities, volunteer programs, charity events, or other forms of social engagement to enhances your application.

    In addition to participating in community activities to showcase your passion for and responsibility toward Singapore's society, actively engaging in charitable and public welfare activities is also important. Whether as an organizer, participant, or donor, your actions can express your inclusivity, care, and support for vulnerable groups, which undoubtedly reflects your recognition, acceptance, and personal contribution to the diverse society of Singapore.

Additionally, obtaining a recommendation letter from a respected figure in Singapore can strengthen your PR application. We recommend that you plan your work and life arrangements in Singapore based on the above factors and submit your PR application early to increase your chances of approval.

Disclaimer

All information in this article is only for the purpose of information sharing, instead of professional suggestion. Kaizen will not assume any responsibility for loss or damage.

If you wish to obtain more information or assistance, please visit the official website of Kaizen CPA Limited at www.kaizencpa.com or contact us through the following and talk to our professionals:

Email: info@kaizencpa.com
Tel: +852 2341 1444
Mobile : +852 5616 4140, +86 152 1943 4614
WhatsApp/ Line/ WeChat: +852 5616 4140
Skype: kaizencpa

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