How to Apply for Singapore PR Online: Step-by-Step 2025 Guide for Foreigners, Work Pass Holders & Families

Singapore is a top choice for those seeking permanent residency due to its strong economy, strategic location, and high quality of life. PR status offers benefits like lower taxes, visa-free entry, and long-term stay. However, with only about 30,000 approvals each year, the process is competitive and requires both a strong profile and patience.

Before applying, it’s important to understand the benefits and responsibilities of becoming a Singapore PR. This article will act as your road map, outlining the strategic benefits and obligations that come with PR applications Singapore.

Can You Apply for Singapore PR Online?

On December 18, 2017, the Immigration & Checkpoints Authority (ICA) implemented an electronic Permanent Residence (e-PR) system for PR applications. ICA no longer accepts applicants’ hard copies of PR application forms. This includes those sent in through Singapore’s high commissions, embassies, and consulates abroad. Only the e-PR system is used to accept all PR applications.

Candidates use their SingPass to access the e-PR system and enter the necessary data into an electronic application form. It is possible to scan and electronically transmit supporting documentation.

At the time of submitting a PR application, each applicant must pay an application cost of SGD 100. A $20 charge for the Entry Permit will also be paid by each accepted application. As a result, $120 in fees are due for each successful PR candidate.

A valid Singpass is required for all applications submitted via the e-PR system. In order to submit their applications on their behalf, applicants who do not have a valid Singpass should speak with their local Singaporean citizen or Singapore PR sponsors.

Who Is Eligible to Apply PR in Singapore?

Singapore offers several PR schemes for different categories of individuals. Here’s a breakdown of who can apply for PR in Singapore and the eligibility criteria under each scheme:

• Employment Pass or S Pass Holders: Foreign professionals, technical specialists, or skilled workers currently holding valid work passes, such as the Employment Pass, S Pass, EntrePass, Tech.Pass, or Personalised Employment Pass (PEP)—can apply under the Professional, Technical Personnel and Skilled Workers Scheme (PTS Scheme). This is the most common route to becoming a Singapore permanent resident.
• Spouse and Children of Singapore Citizens (SC) or Permanent Residents (PR): Under the Family Sponsorship Scheme, spouses and unmarried children (under 21 years old) of Singapore Citizens or PRs may be eligible to apply for PR.
• Aged Parents of Singapore Citizens: Elderly parents of SCs can also be sponsored to obtain PR status in Singapore.
• Student Pass Holders: Foreign students who have resided in Singapore for at least two years, passed at least one national exam (like PSLE, GCE ‘N’, ‘O’, or ‘A’ levels), or are enrolled in the Integrated Programme, may apply under the Student PR Scheme.
• Established Investors and Business Owners: High-net-worth individuals can apply for Singapore PR through the Global Investor Programme (GIP) by investing at least S$2.5 million in a business, approved fund, or family office.
• Foreign Artistic Talent: Individuals who have made notable contributions in areas such as music, film, dance, literature, photography, or theatre may qualify under the Foreign Artistic Talent Scheme (ForArts).

Step-by-Step PR Application Process (Online)

If you’re planning to apply for Permanent Residency in Singapore, here’s a complete PR online application guide to help you through the process:

Step 1: Confirm Eligibility

Before you begin, verify that you meet the criteria under one of the official PR schemes listed above.

Step 2: Prepare All Required Documents

Make sure you have all the necessary documents ready in advance. These may include:

• Passport biodata page
• Valid Employment or S Pass
• Payslips (last 6 months) and appointment letter
• Employer’s business profile (if applicable)
• Educational certificates and academic transcripts
• IRAS Notice of Assessment for the past 3 years
• CV or resume
• Marriage and birth certificates (for family/dependents, if applicable)

Step 3: Access the ICA e-PR Portal

Visit the ICA ePR (Electronic Permanent Residence) system and log in using your SingPass. You’ll need to fill out a detailed Singapore PR application online form covering personal, educational, professional, and family details.

Step 4: Upload Supporting Documents

Upload all required documents in PDF format through the ICA ePR system. Make sure they are:

• In color
• Clear and legible
• Within ICA’s file size and format requirements

Incomplete or unclear uploads can lead to delays or rejection.

Step 5: Pay the Application Fee

Once all forms and documents are submitted, proceed to pay the non-refundable application fee of SGD 100 per applicant directly via the ICA portal.

Step 6: Wait for Processing

The typical processing time ranges from 4 to 9 months, although some applicants may receive a decision sooner. You can check your application status anytime via the ICA ePR portal.

Step 7: Receive Outcome Notification

If your application is approved, you’ll receive an In-Principle Approval (IPA) letter via the portal. This letter includes the next steps, like medical check-up instructions and PR issuance details.

Step 8: Complete PR Formalities

Undergo a medical check-up at an ICA-approved clinic and book an appointment to finalize your PR status and collect your PR card.

Pay the following issuance fees:

• SGD 20 for PR Card
• SGD 50 for Entry Permit
• SGD 30 for Re-Entry Permit

This streamlined Singapore PR apply online process ensures convenience, but attention to detail is key. Double-check all entries and uploads to maximize your chances of success.

Permanent Resident in Singapore Requirements

Before submitting your PR application online, it’s essential to prepare a complete set of permanent residence documents to ensure your eligibility and streamline the application process. Missing or improperly formatted documents can result in delays or even rejection.

Below are the core permanent resident Singapore requirements related to documentation:

1.    Passport

Submit a scanned copy of the passport biodata page for each applicant. This serves as your primary identification document.

2.    Work Pass Copy

If you are applying under the PTS Scheme, include a valid copy of your Employment Pass, S Pass, EntrePass, or other relevant work pass. This is a key permanent resident Singapore requirement for professionals and skilled workers.

3.    Income and Employment Verification

To demonstrate financial stability, include:

• Latest 6 months’ payslips
• Tax assessment documents (IRAS Notice of Assessment) for the past 1–3 years
• Employment contracts, appointment letters, and employer-issued recommendation or evaluation reports

4.    Educational Qualifications

Provide all academic certificates and transcripts, starting from high school to your highest attained degree. These documents help establish your qualifications and career potential in Singapore.

5.    Spouse and Child Documentation (if applying as a family unit)

If you are submitting a family application, you must also provide:

• Marriage certificate
• Birth certificates of children
• Supporting identification documents for spouse and dependents

6.    Additional Supporting Documents

While not mandatory, including the following can strengthen your application:

Resume or CV detailing your professional background

• Property ownership proof (if you own real estate in Singapore)
• Testimonials, awards, or letters of recommendation to showcase achievements
• Official translations for all non-English documents (preferably from an embassy-recommended service)

Tips to Strengthen Your PR Application

Applying for permanent residency in Singapore is about more than paperwork—it’s about proving your long-term value. Here’s how to strengthen your PR application:

• Stable Employment & Income: A consistent job, especially one that meets PR salary benchmarks, shows economic contribution.

• CPF & Community Involvement: CPF contributions and volunteering demonstrate social integration and commitment.

• Clear Tax Records: Ensure your IRAS NOAs for the past 1–3 years align with your declared income and job history.

• Strong Local Ties: Long-term stay, property ownership, or raising a family in Singapore reflect stability and integration.

These tips will help you meet the permanent resident Singapore requirements and boost your chances of approval.

What Happens After You Submit?

Once you’ve completed your PR application via the e-PR system, here’s what to expect next in your journey toward getting permanent residency in Singapore:

Acknowledgement Letter: After submission, you’ll receive an acknowledgment letter confirming that your application has been received by ICA.

Document Requests (if needed): ICA may contact you via the portal or email to request additional or missing documents. It’s important to respond promptly to avoid delays.

Notification by Post: The outcome of your PR application will be sent via post in the form of a Notification Letter. If your application is successful, you’ll receive an In-Principle Approval (IPA) letter with instructions for the next steps, including medical check-ups and formalities.

Processing can take anywhere from 4 to 12 months, depending on your profile and the volume of applications. Stay patient, and keep your contact details updated in the system to avoid missing any official correspondence.

Need Help Applying?

Applying for permanent residency in Singapore can feel overwhelming, but you don’t have to do it alone.

Let our experts review your documents before you submit to the ICA. We’ll help spot errors, suggest improvements, and make sure your profile is positioned for success. Start with the basics. Read our full walkthrough covering eligibility, required documents, and apply Singapore PR online. If you’re eligible and have your documents ready, it’s time to take action. Follow our detailed guide for everything you need to know about the e-PR system, uploading documents, paying the fee, and tracking your status.