Becoming a Singapore citizen is a significant milestone for many Permanent Residents (PRs). This comprehensive guide will walk you through the requirements, process, and essential considerations for your citizenship journey.
Introduction
Singapore citizenship represents more than just legal status – it is a commitment to being part of the nation’s fabric. While Permanent Residency offers many benefits, citizenship provides additional privileges and responsibilities that make it an attractive option for long-term residents.
Basic Eligibility Requirements
- Have been a Singapore Permanent Resident (PR) for at least two years and are aged 21 and above (you can apply together with your spouse and any unmarried children aged below 21 born to you within the context of a legal marriage or legally adopted by you) or
- Have been a PR for at least two years and have been married to a Singapore citizen for at least two years or
- Are an unmarried child aged below 21 born within the context of a legal marriage to, or have been legally adopted by, a Singapore citizen or
- Are a PR studying in Singapore; and have been residing/living in Singapore for more than 3 years (of which, at least one year as a PR); and have passed at least one national exam (i.e. PSLE, GCE ‘N’/‘O’/‘A’ levels), or are in the Integrated Programme (IP) or
- Are a PR and an Aged Parent of a Singapore citizen
Global Investor Programme (GIP)
The Global Investor Programme (GIP) facilitates foreign investors, entrepreneurs, and business executives in establishing and operating businesses in Singapore. It provides immigration support and connects them with local business networks for collaboration opportunities. Eligible individuals with a strong track record and interest in investing in Singapore can apply for Permanent Residency (PR) through this program.
For more information, please visit https://www.edb.gov.sg/en/grants/global-investor-programme.html.
General Application Process
Step-by-Step Application Procedure
Stage 1: Online Application
Applicants must submit their application and supporting documents online, providing details about their biodata, family, qualifications, employment, and residency. The application process allows 7 days to complete and upload documents, followed by another 7 days for review and payment. Completing the application takes approximately 90 minutes, with an estimated processing time of 12 months.
Stage 2: In-Principle Approval
Upon receiving the In-Principle Approval (IPA) letter, applicants aged 16 to 60 must log in to the SC Journey Portal after three days to complete the e-Journey. They should also schedule slots for a Singapore Experiential Visit and a Community Sharing Session. Arrangements for foreign citizenship renunciation (if required) should be made during this stage. Stage 2 will last approximately two months.
Stage 3: Approval Letter
Applicants need to fulfil all requirements for renouncing foreign citizenship, including resolving property ownership issues if applicable. They must officially renounce their citizenship with foreign authorities (for applicants aged 21 and above), prepare necessary documents, and attend a registration appointment at the Immigration & Checkpoints Authority (ICA).
Stage 4: Citizenship Ceremony
The citizenship ceremony, held 3-6 months after registration, is organized by the applicant’s Group Representation Constituency (GRC) or Single Member Constituency (SMC). During the ceremony, new citizens receive their Singapore citizenship certificate to mark this significant milestone.
Required Documentation
Personal documents
- Passport-sized photo
- Passport
- Birth certificate
- Marriage certificate
Education-related documents
- Educational certificate(s) and transcripts
- Skill certificate(s)/Professional license(s)
Employment-related documents
- Letter of employment from current employer, dated no more than 3 months from the date of your online application, stating the occupation, date of employment, basic and gross salary per month (if applicable)
- Pay slips from the last 6 months (if applicable)
- Latest 3 years of Income tax assessment/ receipts (only if working overseas)
- For self-employed: the latest Business Registration Certificate from the Accounting & Corporate Regulatory Authority (ACRA), the latest 3 years’ balance sheets, and the latest 3 years’ profit and loss statements
Other relevant documents
- National Service certificate of service, transcript, and testimonial (if applicable)
Fees
The fee structure for Singapore citizenship applications varies based on the applicant’s category:
- Adult permanent residents (PRs) and children of PRs pay S$100 at submission, followed by S$70 for the Singapore Citizenship Certificate and S$10 for the Singapore Identity Card (for new citizens aged 15 and above) upon completion of formalities.
- For overseas-born children of Singaporean parents (where the mother is a Singapore citizen or the father is a citizen and married to the gestational mother at the time of the child’s birth), the fee is S$18 at submission, inclusive of the citizenship certificate, with an additional S$10 for the identity card.
- All other overseas or locally born children pay S$100 at submission and the same charges of S$70 and S$10 for the certificate and identity card, respectively, upon completing formalities.
Criteria for Assessing Singapore Citizenship Applications
The ICA evaluates applicants based on various factors, including their family connections to Singaporeans, economic contributions, qualifications, age, family background, and duration of residency. These criteria help assess the applicant’s potential to contribute to Singapore, integrate into its society, and demonstrate a commitment to establishing long-term ties.
Appeals Process
The ICA thoroughly reviews all applications for Singapore citizenship. If you have new or updated information or documents since your previous application, you may submit a fresh application online via ICA’s e-Service.
However, if your circumstances remain unchanged and the same information or documents are provided, the outcome of the application is likely to remain the same.
Conclusion
Obtaining Singapore citizenship is a significant decision that requires careful preparation and commitment. While the process may seem complex, understanding the requirements and following the procedures diligently will increase your chances of success.
Note: Requirements and procedures may change. Always verify current information with the Immigration & Checkpoints Authority (ICA) website.
Frequently Asked Questions
- How long does the application process take?
The processing time typically takes up to 12 months, though it can vary based on individual circumstances. - Can I retain my original citizenship?
Singapore does not allow dual citizenship. You will need to renounce your original citizenship upon becoming a Singapore citizen.
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