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Frequently Asked Questions
FAQs
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What is Singapore Permanent Residency (PR)?PR refers to permanent residence status which allows the person to reside in Singapore permanently. He/she would require a Re-Entry Permit if he/she wishes to travel out and return to Singapore as a permanent resident.
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What are the benefits of having a Singapore Permanent Residence (PR) status?Being a Singapore PR entitles you to a range of benefits. PRs can leave and enter the country without having to apply for Visas, get priority right after citizens in terms of public schooling for your children, obtain long-stay visas for your parents, enjoy the convenience of seeking employment in Singapore without having to reapply for work permit or visas, reap the financial and tax benefits provided by Singapore’s Central Provident Fund (CPF) and PRs also get a higher priority and success when applying for various loans through local banks such as housing loans. Most importantly, having and maintaining a PR status is crucial to applying for a Singapore citizenship after a few years, in which you get access to all Singaporean privileges.
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How long would the whole process take from application to getting my citizenship/PR status?Depending on the complexity of each case and the readiness of the clients, it usually takes around 3-4 months to 1.5 years from the application period to getting an approval from ICA.
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What are the steps?When you express interest in engaging our services, our Client Relationship Manager will call you within 3 days. After the initial consultation, we will assess your profile and subsequently draft a personalised proposal for your case. Next, service will commence once the proposal is accepted and the service agreement is signed. Afterwards, we will build your profile in about 6-12 months, depending on the complexity and requirements. We will then finalise and submit your profile to ICA after rectifications. Speak to us to find out more!
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Can a Singapore PR be a self-employed person?A Singapore PR can be self-employed. However, the PR status does not exempt an individual from registration or any other conditions required under the respective professions for which professional registration to practise in Singapore is a prerequisite (e.g. medicine, dentistry, pharmacy, architecture, law, etc.).
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Can I still apply for PR if I am holding a work permit?You are eligible to apply for PR if you fall under one of the following categories: S Pass, Employment Pass, Personalized Employment Pass, and Entrepreneur Pass holders. (For Professionals, Skilled worker & Technical personal) Spouse of a Singapore Citizen or PR Child of a citizen or PR, unmarried and under 21 Parents of a Singapore citizen Student Pass holders with at least two years in Singapore. They must also have passed at least one national exam (i.e., PSLE or GCE 'N'/'O'/'A' levels) or be in the Integrated Program. You will not be eligible to apply for PR if you are a work permit holder working in the construction, manufacturing, marine shipyard, process or services sector. However, if you are married to a Singapore citizen or permanent resident (PR), PR application is still feasible via a Sponsored scheme. Speak to us to find out your eligibility.
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What is your guaranteed success rate for PR application?We commit ourselves in preparing a comprehensive and all-rounded profile required by the government on behalf of you so that ICA will only get best portfolio. However, factors beyond our control such as the quota system or the ever-changing industry requirements might still affect the success rate and ultimately, ICA has the final call during the last screening phrase.
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How long does it normally takes to build up my profile?Based on the complexity and requirements under the chosen scheme, a profile usually takes around 6-12 months to be ready for submission.
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Is there a maximum amount of times I can apply for PR?No, there is no limit as to how many times you can apply for PR.
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Can I apply for a Long-Term Visit Pass and permanent residence at the same time?You may apply for PR and LTVP concurrently.
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Can I apply for Singapore PR for my parent(s) without a birth certificate?In the absence of a birth certificate, you have to produce other documentary evidence to prove the relationship between you and your parent(s).
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Can I apply for Singapore PR immediately after working here?You can submit an application for ICA's consideration after you have been working here on an Employment or S Pass after 6 months.
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Can I give up my Singapore PR status and then re-apply to become a PR again in the future?The PR application will be considered on its own merits under the prevailing conditions at that time. You will also need to reinstate your CPF contributions (with interest) that had been withdrawn, if applicable.
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Can I leave Singapore while waiting for the result of my PR application?During the processing period of the PR application, applicants are free to travel. If the application is approved, the applicant must return to Singapore for the completion of formalities.
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Can I sponsor my children for Singapore PR?Is your child above the age of 21 years old and above? Yes: They will have to apply on their own merits. No: Your children can apply for Singapore PR under your sponsorship.
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Can I sponsor my parent(s) for Singapore PR?Only Singapore citizens can sponsor their parent(s) for Singapore PR. Parent(s) of Singapore PRs can apply for PR on their own merits if they are employed in Singapore on an Employment or S pass.
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Could I know the reason for rejection of my PR application?We regret to inform you that ICA does not share information on the assessment of applications. Speak to us for a non-obligatory discussion to assess your profile.
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How do I check my REP expiry date?You may log on to the https://eservices.ica.gov.sg/esvclandingpage/erep under "e-services/others/ Enquire REP validity" using your Singpass to check the validity of your Re-Entry Permit (REP). >> All our packages consists of post-approval support.
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Must I inform ICA if I renew my passport while my PR application is pending?You are advised to update ICA of any changes via email at ICA_PR@ica.gov.sg . Speak to your customer relationship manager for advice.
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My permanent residence (PR) application was unsuccessful. What can I do?All applications for PR are carefully considered and reviewed by ICA. If there are additional or updated information or documents since your last application, you may consider submitting a fresh application online through MyICA or e-Service. Please note that the outcome of the application will remain the same if there are no changes to your circumstances, and if the same information or documents are submitted. Contact us for a non-obligatory discussion.
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What does immigration record mean in the PR application form?Immigration record refers to the list of countries and addresses that the main applicant had resided for more than 6 months in the last 10 years as well as his/her arrival and departure records in Singapore.
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What is the difference between a permanent resident and a Long-Term Visit Pass (LTVP) holder?The purpose of the Long Term Visit Pass (LTVP) is to regulate the stay of eligible foreigners for social purpose for a specified period. On the other hand, the Singapore PR status allows the person to reside in Singapore permanently.
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What is the passport validity required for the application of PR?A travel document with at least 6 months validity at the point of submission is a prerequisite for Singapore PR application. Applicants are required to provide their passport details in the application.
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What will happen if a PR applicant applying with his family choose not to complete formalities?The main applicant may write in to ICA_PR@ica.gov sg
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How will I know whether my e-PR application has been successfully submitted?An acknowledgement page will be displayed after payment has been made. You will be able to download a copy of the submitted form. Your application reference number which you can use to enquire on your application status via the "Enquire Application Status" function on the e-PR system
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I am a Student and do not have a Singpass. How do I check my ePR application status online?You may click here.
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I am an employment pass holder who is married to a Singapore Citizen. Whose Singpass should be used to access the ePR system?If an employment pass (EP) holder is applying for PR under the sponsorship of his/her Singapore Citizen/PR spouse, the spouse is required to log in using his/her Singpass and submit the PR application under the Family Ties Scheme (Spouse and/or children of a Singapore Citizen/PR).
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I do not have any testimonials from my previous employer. Can I still proceed to submit my PR application?It is not a prerequisite to produce the testimonials from your previous employers. You may submit it if you have any, for our consideration. Speak to our Client Relationship Manager to have a discussion on your options
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I have not included my dependant(s) in my PR application and I have already submitted it, can I include them now?"You may wish to include them after your application outcome has been finalised. Alternatively, you may withdraw your application and re-submit the application with the dependant(s) via the e-PR system Speak to our Client Relationship Manager before submission to have a clear overview of your application profile.
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My child is currently studying in an international school. What should I choose for his "highest standard passed" in the PR application form?"You should choose a standard that is of an equivalent level (e.g. Grade 1-6 in international school will be equivalent to primary education without a Primary School Leaving Examination (PSLE)/Primary School Proficiency Examination (PSPE) certificate; Kindergarten and Infant/Child Care will be equivalent to Preschool). Contact our Client Relationship Manager for a discussion.
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My permanent residence (PR) application is still pending after six months. How can I enquire the status of my application?All applications for PR are carefully considered and reviewed by ICA. Generally, PR applications take about four to six months to process, provided all the required documents are submitted. Depending on the complexity of the case, some applications may take more than six months to process. You will be informed of the outcome via post. Meanwhile, you or your sponsor may check the status of your PR application online through MyICA or e-Service. New or repeated applications, for the same person(s), will not be accepted while the current application is still in process.
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What should I do if there is change in my employment status (changed job, promoted, salary change, etc) after I have applied for permanent residence?"If there is a change of employment while your PR application is in process, you are required to update us promptly via email at ICA_PR@ica.gov.sg with the following documents: a. A letter from your employer addressed to the Controller of Immigration stating the date of employment, position held and salary earned per month (Basic & Gross); b. Duly completed and signed (by current employer) form Annex A; and c. A copy of your Employment pass (front & back)
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How do I update the address in my PR application?Applicants/sponsors may submit their request to update their address for an ongoing PR application, using the email address as declared in the PR application, to ICA ICA_PR@ica.gov.sg. Speak to your Client Relationship Manager for advice.
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Will my child’s PR application be affected if he is also applying for student pass?You may apply for both Permanent Residence and Student's Pass applications concurrently.
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Can a Singapore citizen/Singapore PR submit a PR application for his spouse without producing the marriage certificate at the time of application?The marriage certificate is a prerequisite to prove the marital relationship and it must be submitted at the time of application.
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Do I need to register my overseas marriage when applying for PR?Applicants/Sponsors are required to declare all marriage(s) (including customary marriages) in the PR application form.
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I need to provide supporting documents to ICA for my application of PR. What should I do if they are not in English Language?For documents that are not in English language, ICA accepts translation done by the Embassy of the document-issuing country/place or a Notary Public in Singapore. A privately translated copy attested by the Embassy of the document-issuing country/place or notarised by a Notary Public in Singapore is also acceptable. ICA does not endorse any private translation companies or entities.
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What are the fees involved in a Singapore PR application?From 18 December 2017, you will be charged a processing fee of S$100 per applicant at the point of your PR application submission. If your application is successful, additional fees of S$20 for the Entry Permit and S$50 for a 5-year Re-Entry Permit are applicable. A new PR aged 15 years and above is also required to register for a Singapore Identity Card at a fee of S$50. Where applicable, S$30 per visa issued may be levied per applicant.
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Why is there an introduction of the processing fee when I apply for PR?The introduction of the processing fee is to manage the rising operating costs of processing PR applications.
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Would my PR application be affected if my work pass has been terminated?A valid Employment Pass or S Pass is a prerequisite for PR application under the Professionals/Technical Personnel and Skilled Workers (PTS) scheme. We will not be able to consider the PR application of any PTS applicant who does not have a valid pass.
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How do I find out when is the date my PR is issued?Generally, a PR will be issued an Entry Permit (EP) at the point of completion of PR formalities. The date of issue is stated on the EP.
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How do I obtain a letter to prove that my FIN was converted to NRIC or UIN?You may write in to ICA_REP@ica.gov.sg
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How do I renounce my PR status?To renounce your permanent residence, you are required to report in person to ICA, with a request letter and the following documents: - Entry Permit Card; - Singapore Blue Identity Card; and - Re-entry Permit. Should any of the above documents be found misplaced, a police report on the loss is required. If you are based overseas, you may submit your renunciation request at the nearest Singapore overseas mission. If a main applicant intends to renounce his/her permanent residence, then all the dependants who obtained the permanent residence under his/her sponsorship are required to renounce together. The procedure to renounce remains the same. For overseas submissions, an acknowledgement letter confirming that you have requested to renounce your permanent residence will be issued to you upon receipt of all the relevant documents. Your request will be forwarded to ICA for processing. The processing time frame is 4 weeks and the turnaround time will depend on the diplomatic despatch scheduled by the overseas mission. The overseas mission will liaise with you on the collection of renunciation letter once your request has been finalised. For further information about your CPF, you may wish to check with CPFB at MEMBER@cpf.gov.sg
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How do I verify my PR status?You may log on to the e-Service using your SingPass to print a copy of your Re-Entry Permit (REP). If you have any further queries, please email ICA_REP@ica.gov.sg
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What do I do after my PR is approved?PR applicants/sponsors who have received the PR In-Principle Approval (IPA) letter are required to be present in person at ICA Building for the completion of PR formalities. Please ensure that all requirements as stated in the IPA letter are duly completed and the relevant documents/forms are submitted on the appointment day for ICA to process the formalities accordingly.
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What happens to the work pass after I become a PR?Upon completion of PR formalities, your Work Pass will be retained for cancellation.
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What should I do after my PR application is approved?Upon approval of the PR application, an in-principle approval letter will be mailed to successful applicants. Please be advised to refer to the approval letter for the administrative details and conditions to complete the formalities.
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How do I retrieve Form 5?A Form 5 is known as an Entry Permit. An Entry Permit is issued only once to a successful PR during the completion of PR formalities.
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What is the Form 5A?Form 5 refers to the Entry Permit issued to a successful applicant for Singapore PR at the point of completion of PR formalities.
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How soon can a Singapore PR apply for Singapore citizenship after being granted PR status?Singapore PRs are eligible to apply for Singapore citizenship two years after being granted PR status.
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What is the validity period of permanent residence?Generally, a PR will be issued an Entry Permit (EP) at the point of completion of PR formalities. A PR will be allowed to stay indefinitely in Singapore as long as he does not travel out of Singapore. If he intends to travel out, he will require a valid Re-Entry Permit (REP), otherwise, he will lose his PR status if he travels out without a valid REP. You may log on to the e-Service
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Additional Buyer's Stamp Duty (ABSD) for Singapore Permanent ResidentLiable buyers are required to pay ABSD on top of the existing Buyer’s Stamp Duty (BSD). ABSD and BSD are computed on the purchase price as stated in the dutiable document or the market value of the property (whichever is the higher amount). Singapore Permanent Residents (SPR) buying first residential property => 5% Singapore Permanent Residents (SPR) buying second and subsequent residential property => 15% For more information about ABSD visit https://www.iras.gov.sg/taxes/stamp-duty/for-property/buying-or-acquiring-property/additional-buyer's-stamp-duty-(absd)
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Are Singapore Permanent Resident eligible to purchase resale HDB flat?The eligibility conditions to buy a resale flat are detailed below. In general, there must be at least 1 Singapore Citizen or 2 Singapore Permanent Residents listed in the flat application. For more information on eligibility of resale HDB visit https://www.hdb.gov.sg/residential/buying-a-flat/resale/eligibility
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Disposal of existing ownership/ interest in property in Singapore or overseas other than HDB flatsYou, your spouse, co-applicants, and any occupiers listed in the resale application must dispose of any interest or ownership in any private residential property within 6 months of buying a resale flat Note: If you own a private property, you are not eligible for a CPF Housing Grant or an HDB housing loan. For more information on disposal of overseas property visit https://www.hdb.gov.sg/residential/buying-a-flat/resale/procedures/conditions-after-buying
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When can I apply for Citizenship?You can apply for a Singaporean citizenship if you have a PR status for at least 2 years.
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What is the benefits of applying for a Citizenship instead of remaining a PR?First and foremost, you get access to the benefits that local citizens enjoy, such as eligibility for purchase of apartments from the Housing & Development Board (HDB), subsidized school fees and medical charges, taxation and many more. Secondly, you get to travel to most countries Visa-free, as you hold one of the world’s most powerful passports. Thirdly, enjoy higher chances of employment due to lesser paperwork, formalities and expenses involved in hiring citizens. In addition, you no longer need to renew your re-entry permit.
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What is your guaranteed success rate for Citizenship application?We commit ourselves in preparing a comprehensive and all-rounded profile required by the government on behalf of you so that ICA will only get best portfolio. However, factors beyond our control such as the quota system or the ever-changing industry requirements might still affect the success rate and ultimately, ICA has the final call during the last screening phrase.
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How long does it normally takes to build up my profile?Based on the complexity and requirements under the chosen scheme, a profile usually takes around 3-12 months to be ready for submission
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Is there a maximum amount of times I can apply for Citizenship?No, there is no limit as to how many times you can apply for Citizenship.
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Approval In PrincipleBook slots and attend the Singapore Experiential Visit and Community Sharing Session Complete the online e-Journey (applicants who are below 16 years old are exempted from this stage.) Make arrangements to meet the requirements for renunciation of foreign citizenship when it is time to do so at the next stage
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Final Approval by ICADownload letter to renounce Foreign Citizenship and attend Registration Renunciation Duration: about 1-2 months Fulfil all the requirements for renunciation of foreign citizenship (e.g. settle property ownership issue if any), if applicable. Apply to renounce foreign citizenship at the relevant embassy. This is only applicable to those who are 21 years old and above. Prepare all documents required for the Registration of Singapore Citizenship. Report to ICA Building on the date and time stipulated in the notification letter to register for Singapore Citizenship (typically 3-4 weeks from date of the letter)
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Singapore Citizenship CeremonyCeremony for New Citizens to collect Singapore Identity Card Typically, the Ceremony will be held 3–6 months after successful applicants have completed the final approval process. The Pink Identity Card (also known as NRIC) and SC Certificate will be presented to you at the Citizenship Ceremony that is specially organised to welcome all new citizens!
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Singapore Citizenship JourneyThe Singapore Citizenship Journey is a mandatory programme for Singapore Citizenship applicants, aged 16 to 60 years old, who have been granted in-principle approval for Singapore Citizenship. Participants can log in to the Singapore Citizenship Journey via the Singapore Journey website. https://www.sgjourney.gov.sg/
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Singapore Passport Application/RenewalA passport serves as a travel document issued to Singapore citizens for the purpose of travelling abroad. You may apply for a passport online if: - It is your first time applying for a passport - Your passport is running out of pages - Your passport has expired, or is expiring in nine months or less - Your passport is lost or damaged Online Log in to our e-Service using your Singpass to complete the online application form. View here for video guides on online passport application via MyICA. https://www.ica.gov.sg/documents/passport/apply
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ABSD (Additional Buyer's Stamp Duty) for Singaporean CitizenLiable buyers are required to pay ABSD on top of the existing Buyer’s Stamp Duty (BSD). ABSD and BSD are computed on the purchase price as stated in the dutiable document or the market value of the property (whichever is the higher amount). Singapore Citizens (SC) buying first residential property => 0% ABSD Singapore Citizens (SC) buying second residential property => 12% ABSD Singapore Citizens (SC) buying third residential property => 15% ABSD
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National Service LiabilityUnder the Enlistment Act, all male Singapore Citizens and Permanent Residents, unless exempted1, are required to serve National Service (NS). Following the completion of full-time NS, they will become Operationally Ready National Servicemen (NSmen). An NSman's obligation will end at the age of 50 years (for officers) or 40 years (for other ranks). Main applicants who are granted PR status under the Professionals/Technical Personnel and Skilled Workers Scheme or the Investor Scheme, are exempted from NS. Male applicants who are granted PR status as a Foreign Student or under their parents’ sponsorship are required to register for NS upon reaching 16½ years old and will be scheduled for enlistment at the earliest opportunity upon reaching 18 years old. MINDEF allows students to attain educational qualifications up to the 'A' Levels certificate, the polytechnic diploma or an equivalent before they are required to serve NS. They are enlisted at the earliest opportunity when they have finished such courses, or after turning 18 years old, whichever is later. MINDEF does not grant deferment for university studies, regardless of whether such studies have begun. All male applicants are required to access www.cmpb.gov.sg for information on NS deferment, pre-enlistment process and Exit Permit requirements, before proceeding with the application. Males who are granted Singapore PR, and who were previously Singapore Citizens or Singapore Permanent Residents, are liable to be called up for NS regardless of the scheme under which their PR status was granted. Renouncing or losing one’s PR status without serving or completing full-time NS would have an adverse impact on any immediate or future applications to work, study or live in Singapore, or for Singapore citizenship or PR status. Renouncing or losing one’s PR status without serving or completing full-time NS may also adversely affect any immediate or future applications for renewal of Re-entry Permits made by one’s family members or sponsors. For further enquiries, please contact: Central Manpower Base Email: contact@ns.sg Contact No(s): 1800-3676767 (local) 65-65676767 (overseas) 1Main applicants who are granted PR status under the Professionals/Technical Personnel and Skilled Workers Scheme or the Investor Scheme, are exempted from NS.
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Will I need to serve NS after I am granted a PR status?Male children with PR status under their parents’ PR application are subjected to NS under the Enlistment Act. Only individuals under Professionals/Technical Personnel and Skilled Workers Scheme (PTS) or Global Investor Scheme (GIP) are exempted from National Service.
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Do first generation PRs need to serve National Service (NS)?First generation PRs are not required to serve National Service (NS).
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Whom can I check with about National Service liability/exemption matters?As matters regarding NS liability are under the purview of the Central Manpower Base (CMPB), please liaise directly with CMPB via the NS portal or email: contact@ns.sg
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Why should I engage in a consultancy firm when I can do it on my own?Minimum effort from you, maximum results from us. Immigration application is more than just filling up forms and submitting a few simple documents. There are easily more than ten different areas that the government will assess. You might miss some mandatory documents that are unbeknownst to the general public as they were only implemented in late 2019. With over 20 years of expertise and first-hand knowledge in the industry, we will assist in all aspects, such as recommending you different agencies or organisations that would aid in your profile-building, providing viable solutions to the assessable areas that will be reviewed by the government, as well as compiling all the necessary documents for submission to ICA. Fergus is aware of the strategies in showcasing your best side to the authorities. Immigration is no simple matter, be reassured and confident when you leave it to the professionals. Fuss free and practical commitment. We understand that while you are interested in applying for PR/citizenship, you are also hard at work at the same time. Hence, our personalized services ensures that all clients, with their own sets of commitments, can adhere to a workable timeline with procedures that are as fuss-free as possible.
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Am I guaranteed a 100% success rate?Every case is different. Thus, we will evaluate your profile, assess your current chances and discuss how we can value-add to your portfolio during the consultation. Fergus promises to compile and submit a high potential portfolio to ICA so that your immigration dreams can be realised.
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