The Singapore government has identified six categories of foreigners who can apply for permanent residence. These categories include spouses of Singapore citizens or existing permanent residents, unmarried children under 21 born within a legal marriage to, or legally adopted by, a Singapore citizen or permanent resident.

The Immigration and Checkpoints Authority (ICA) assesses each application individually, considering factors such as family connections to Singaporeans, economic contributions, qualifications, age, family profile, and length of residence in the country. Meeting the eligibility criteria does not guarantee approval.

Aged parents of Singapore citizens who are at least 21 years old are also eligible to apply for permanent residence. Additionally, holders of an Employment Pass or S Pass, students studying in Singapore who have passed at least one national examination, and foreign investors based in Singapore can also apply.

To live in Singapore on a long-term basis, permanent residents aged 15 and above receive a blue identity card. Those who travel outside the country and wish to return as permanent residents must have a valid re-entry permit. The ICA evaluates applicants based on their potential to contribute to Singapore's society and economy and show a genuine commitment to settling there permanently.

The ICA considers the qualifications and economic contributions of applicants, such as those holding an Employment Pass or S Pass. Students who have passed at least one national examination, such as the PSLE or GCE N, O or A Levels, or who are enrolled in the Integrated Programme, are also eligible to apply for permanent residence.

Foreign investors based in Singapore are among the categories eligible to apply for permanent residence. The Singapore government requires eligible foreign workers to earn at least S$6,000 monthly before bringing certain family members under Long-Term Visit Pass arrangements. This rule offers additional context on Singapore's immigration requirements for foreign workers and their families.

In conclusion, the six categories of foreigners eligible to apply for permanent residence in Singapore include spouses of citizens, unmarried children under 21, aged parents of citizens, holders of an Employment Pass or S Pass, students studying in Singapore, and foreign investors. The ICA assesses each application based on various factors to determine the applicant's potential to contribute to Singapore's society and economy.

Key points

  • The six categories of foreigners eligible for permanent residence in Singapore are spouses of citizens, unmarried children under 21, aged parents of citizens, holders of an Employment Pass or S Pass, students studying in Singapore, and foreign investors.
  • Meeting the eligibility criteria does not guarantee approval for permanent residence in Singapore.
  • The ICA assesses each application individually, considering factors such as family connections, economic contributions, qualifications, age, family profile, and length of residence in the country.

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SaharaWire Newsroom
SaharaWire

Reporting for SaharaWire from the Nairobi bureau.