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  • What are the eligibility criteria to apply for Singapore citizenship as a foreigner?
    To apply for Singapore citizenship, you must meet one of the following criteria: Be a Singapore Permanent Resident (PR) for at least 2 years and be at least 21 years old. Be married to a Singapore Citizen and have been a PR for at least 2 years. Be a PR student who has resided in Singapore for more than 3 years (of which at least 1 year was as a PR) and passed at least one national examination (e.g., PSLE, GCE ‘N’/‘O’/‘A’ Levels). Be a PR child born to a Singapore Citizen. Be a PR aged 50 and above, who has been residing in Singapore for more than 20 years.
  • How long does the Singapore citizenship application process take?
    The Immigration and Checkpoints Authority (ICA) typically takes 6 to 12 months to process a Singapore citizenship application. The processing time may vary depending on the individual’s profile and the supporting documents provided.
  • Do I need to renounce my current citizenship to become a Singapore citizen?
    Yes, Singapore does not allow dual citizenship. If your Singapore citizenship application is successful, you will need to renounce your current citizenship and submit proof of renunciation to the ICA. This is typically done before your citizenship registration is complete.
  • Will I need to serve National Service (NS) if I become a Singapore citizen?
    Male citizens are required to serve National Service (NS). If you are below the age of 40 (for non-officers) or 50 (for officers), you may be required to serve. Male children of new citizens will also be subject to the NS requirement upon turning 18.
  • How will I know if my citizenship application is approved?
    The ICA will notify successful applicants by mail. You will then be required to complete certain formalities, such as attending a citizenship ceremony, where you will receive your Singapore Citizenship Certificate and Singapore Identity Card (NRIC).
  • If my citizenship application is rejected, how soon can I reapply?
    If your Singapore citizenship application is rejected, you must wait at least 2 years before submitting a new application. During this time, you can work on improving your profile, such as your contribution to the Singapore economy and society, to increase your chances of approval in the future.
  • Can I apply for Singapore citizenship if I’m living overseas?
    No, you must be residing in Singapore at the time of your application. Additionally, you are required to attend the citizenship ceremony in person if your application is successful, so you must plan to be in Singapore for these formalities.
  • Can I include my family in my PR application?
    Yes, you can include your spouse and unmarried children under 21 in your PR application, and Assurance Immigration is able to do that for you! They will need to submit the necessary supporting documents (e.g., marriage or birth certificates). Aged parents may apply separately under a different PR category, but cannot be included in the main application.
  • Do I need to renounce my current citizenship to apply for Singapore PR?
    No, Singapore PR status does not require you to renounce your current citizenship. PR status allows you to maintain your original citizenship while enjoying many benefits of residency in Singapore. However, if you later apply for Singapore citizenship, you will need to renounce your current citizenship.
  • What are the eligibility criteria for applying for Singapore Permanent Residency (PR)?
    To be eligible to apply for Singapore PR, you must fall into one of the following categories: Hold an Employment Pass (EP), S Pass, Personalised Employment Pass (PEP), or EntrePass, and have worked in Singapore for at least 6 months. Be the spouse or unmarried child under 21 of a Singapore Citizen or PR. Be the aged parent of a Singapore Citizen. Hold a Student Pass, have lived in Singapore for at least 2 years, and passed at least one national exam (PSLE, GCE 'N', 'O', or 'A' levels) or be enrolled in the Integrated Programme. Be a foreign investor approved under the Global Investor Programme (GIP).
  • How long does it take to process a Singapore PR application?
    Typically, the Immigration and Checkpoints Authority (ICA) takes 4 to 6 months to process PR applications. In some cases, the processing time may be longer, depending on the completeness of the application and the individual's profile.
  • How can I improve my chances of getting PR approval?
    To improve your chances of obtaining PR status, focus on these factors: Employment stability and a strong record of contributing to the economy. Demonstrating family ties to Singapore (such as having a spouse or children who are Singaporean citizens). Contributions to society, including volunteering or community involvement. Meeting or exceeding financial and educational qualifications. Ensuring that all documents are complete and accurate also helps streamline the application process.
  • What are the benefits of becoming a Singapore PR?
    As a Singapore PR, you will enjoy many benefits, including: Flexibility in employment, as you are no longer tied to your employer for your visa status. The ability to purchase property, including certain government-subsidized flats (after 3 years of PR status). Access to the Central Provident Fund (CPF), which helps with retirement, healthcare, and housing savings. Priority admissions for your children to local schools. Greater visa flexibility for entering and leaving Singapore.
  • Will I need to serve National Service (NS) if I become a Singapore PR?
    If you are a male PR who obtained PR status through your parents (before the age of 18), or if you have a male child under the age of 16½, National Service (NS) will be required. All male PRs who are subject to NS must register at 16½ and serve two years of full-time NS at 18, followed by yearly reservist obligations.
  • Can I apply for PR while living outside of Singapore?
    No, you must be physically residing in Singapore at the time of your PR application, and you need to hold a valid work pass (e.g., Employment Pass, S Pass) if you are applying as a working professional.
  • Can I apply for PR if I am self-employed or a business owner?
    Yes, if you are a business owner or entrepreneur, you can apply for PR if you hold an EntrePass or are applying under the Global Investor Programme (GIP). You will need to meet the relevant investment and business growth criteria as outlined by the government. Assurance Immigration is experienced with the Global Investor Programme (GIP) and Business Relocation Programme as well.
  • How will I know if my PR application is successful?
    You will be notified by ICA via email or post if your application is approved. Following approval, you will need to complete the formalities, such as providing biometric data and attending an appointment at ICA. Afterward, you will receive your Singapore PR card.
  • What happens if my PR application is rejected?
    If your application is rejected, you can reapply after 6 months. During this time, it is advisable to improve your profile (e.g., through career advancement, contributions to society) before resubmitting your application.

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