Who Can Apply for Singapore Permanent Residency?
Discover the five key PR pathways and find out which scheme suits you best.
Singapore offers five distinct PR schemes, each designed for different applicant profiles—from skilled professionals and investors to artists and students. Below is a breakdown of the schemes and who qualifies under each.
1. PTS Scheme – Professionals, Technical Personnel & Skilled Workers.
Best suited for: Foreign professionals holding valid Singapore work passes
The PTS Scheme is the most common route to PR and is open to individuals currently working in Singapore under an Employment Pass, S Pass, or EntrePass.
To qualify, applicants must be:
Legally employed and residing in Singapore
Demonstrating stable employment and professional contributions
Able to meet other eligibility factors such as qualifications, financial status, and integration into local life
2. Family Ties Scheme
Best suited for: Immediate family members of Singapore citizens or PRs
This route supports family reunification and is open to:
Spouses of Singapore citizens or PRs
Unmarried children under 21
Aged parents of Singapore citizens
3. Global Investor Programme (GIP)
Best suited for: High-net-worth individuals and business investors
Administered by Singapore’s Economic Development Board, this scheme targets investors who:
Are ready to invest a minimum of SGD $2.5 million into a qualifying business or investment fund
Have a proven track record in entrepreneurship or business leadership
4. Foreign Artistic Talent Scheme (ForArts)
Best suited for: Renowned professionals in the creative and cultural fields
Jointly managed by the National Arts Council and ICA, this scheme is designed for:
Internationally recognized individuals in visual arts, performing arts, literary arts, media, or design
Applicants with a strong portfolio and contributions to their field on a global level
5. Education Route – International Students
Best suited for: Foreign students who demonstrate strong integration and academic achievement
Students may qualify if they:
Student studying in Singapore and have passed at least one national exam (i.e. PSLE, GCE 'N'/'O'/'A' levels), or are in the Integrated Programme (IP)
Have family ties in Singapore or show strong community involvement
PTS Scheme: A Closer Look at Eligibility for Professionals.
The Professional, Technical Personnel and Skilled Workers (PTS) Scheme is a leading pathway for foreign professionals to attain PR. If you’re already working in Singapore and contributing to the economy, this scheme is likely your best option.
Who’s Eligible?
To improve your chances under the PTS Scheme, you should meet the following benchmarks:
Work Pass Requirement: You must hold a valid Employment Pass or S Pass
Professional Stability: ICA values applicants with stable, long-term employment—particularly those with strong company backing
Education: Degrees from reputable institutions (especially Singaporean or globally ranked universities) strengthen your case
Financial Standing: A good income and solid financial background demonstrate your ability to contribute economically
Time in Singapore: It is recommended to work and reside in Singapore for at least 36 months before applying
Age Considerations: While not mandatory, being under 50 years old may improve your prospects
Family Ties: Having family members who are Singaporeans or PRs enhances your likelihood of approval
Community Engagement: Volunteer work or involvement in local organizations shows commitment to Singaporean society
📌 Tip: Talking proactive steps at least a year before applying gives you more time to build a compelling profile—through job tenure, pay progression, and integration
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