Singapore is a global city known for its high living standards, political stability, and strong economy. Many aspire to live here, but can you do so without permanent residence (PR) status?
Permanent Residence (PR) status is often the top choice for many expatriates when establishing long-term residence in Singapore. Singapore PRs can enjoy benefits like access to social security savings plans, public housing, healthcare subsidies, and education grants not available to non-Singapore PRs.
However, obtaining a PR status is challenging, with strict criteria and a complex process, with no reason(s) provided in an event of a rejection.
This article explores other residency options in Singapore, from work visas such as employment pass to citizenship, providing insights for those considering life in Lion City.
1. Living in Singapore as an Employment Pass Holder
One way to live in Singapore without being a Singapore PR is by going through the Employment Pass application process. The Employment Pass (EP) is a work visa issued to foreign professionals, managers, and executives who have a job offer in Singapore.
An Employment Pass (EP) status allows you to reside in Singapore for the duration of your employment contract, offering a path to live in the country without needing permanent residence status.
If the foreign professional wishes to change jobs, he will need his new employer to sponsor his EP deapplication again. With the new point-based COMPASS model rolled out in September 2023, application procedures for EP application are more straightforward yet more challenging to obtain or retain the status.
2. Residing in Singapore as a Foreign Investor
The Singapore government encourages foreign investment and, as such, offers residency options for foreign investors.
One such option is the Global Investor Programme (GIP) the Singapore Economic Development Board facilitated. Under this scheme, foreign investors can gain PR status in Singapore, but it's not mandatory. However, they must meet specific investment criteria to qualify for this programme.
3. Staying in Singapore as a Student
Singapore is a hub of quality education with renowned universities and research institutes. International students can live in Singapore during their studies without gaining PR status.
Once admitted to a recognized institution, international students are granted a Student Pass, which allows them to stay in the country for their study duration .
4. Living in Singapore on a Dependant's Pass (DP)
If you are a family member (such as a legally married or common-law spouse or child) of an Employment Pass or S Pass holder, you can apply for a Dependant's Pass (DP) or Long-Term Visit Pass (LTVP).
This pass allows you to live in Singapore without having PR status. Dependent's Pass holders can also apply for a Letter of Consent (LOC) to work in Singapore if they are business owners with at least 30% shares in a Singapore-registered entity.
5. Residing in Singapore on a Long-Term Visit Pass
The Long-Term Visit Pass (LTVP) is for parents, common-law spouses, unmarried children or legally adopted children of Singapore citizens or PRs.
This pass allows family members to stay in Singapore longer than permitted under a regular tourist visa. It is another option for individuals wishing to live in Singapore without PR status.
The Role of Permanent Residence Status
While living in Singapore without permanent residence is possible, obtaining it brings additional benefits and stability.
As a Singapore PR, you get to enjoy many benefits and perks similar to a Singapore citizen.
However, you are required to maintain a valid Re-Entry Permit (REP) in order to travel in and out of Singapore without losing your permanent residence status. Being granted Singapore PR also paves the way towards Singapore citizenship, should that be a future goal.
Additional Considerations
Before making a decision on the most suitable way to live in Singapore, there are several additional considerations that you should keep in mind.
Legal and Regulatory Requirements
Familiarising yourself with each residency status's legal and regulatory requirements is essential. For example, military service. Under the Enlistment Act, all male Singapore citizens and permanent residents, unless exempted, are required to serve National Service (NS). Following the completion of full-time NS, they will become Operationally Ready National Servicemen (NSmen). Non-compliance could lead to severe penalties.
Cost of Living
Singapore is known for its high cost of living, especially in areas like housing, education, certificate of entitlement (COE) for owning a vehicle, and medical expenses, etc.
Considering whether your income or financial resources can sustain a comfortable lifestyle in Singapore for the long-term is essential. However, as Singapore PR or Citizen, the cost of living will be lower as you get to enjoy local residents rates and subsidies by the Singapore government for housing, healthcare, memberships, school fees, etc.
Social Integration
Living in a new country can be a significant cultural and social change. Consider how well you can integrate into Singapore's multicultural society, learn the local customs, and adapt to the local lifestyle.
Long-term Plans
Your long-term plans should significantly influence your decision. If you plan to stay in Singapore for an extended period or permanently, gaining PR status or citizenship might be more beneficial. On the other hand, if you're only planning to stay in Singapore for a few years, the options we mentioned above might be more suitable for you.
Conclusion
In conclusion, living in Singapore without PR status is possible. Still, it's essential to consider all relevant factors and make an informed decision.
Whether you choose to live in Singapore as an employment pass holder, a citizen, or a foreign investor, understanding the benefits, obligations, and long-term implications of your chosen residency status is crucial.
Doing so can ensure that your stay in Singapore is fulfilling and beneficial to your long-term goals.
Frequently Asked Questions about Living in Singapore without PR
How Long Can a Foreigner Live in Singapore?
The duration of a foreigner's stay in Singapore depends on their status. For example,
A foreigner on a tourist visa can stay in Singapore for up to 30 or 90 days, depending on their nationality.
A foreigner on a Long-Term Visit Pass (LTVP) can live in Singapore for up to two years. An LTVP+ holder is allowed to stay longer, usually about 3-5 years. Both the LTVP and LTVP+ status are renewable.
A foreigner on a work pass status (S Pass, Employment Pass, Personalised Employment Pass, Overseas Networks & Expertise Pass (ONE Pass)) can live in Singapore according to their work pass duration validity.
Ultimately, the length of stay for a foreigner living in Singapore is determined by their purpose and visa type.
Can I Move to Singapore Without A Job?
Yes, you can move to Singapore without a job. With the proper preparation and research, relocating to Singapore as an expat without a job can be an achievable and rewarding experience.
Firstly, it's crucial to determine the type of visa required for your relocation. If you are sponsored by a family member who is a Singapore Permanent Resident or Citizen, you may qualify to apply for permanent residence or a Long-Term Visit Pass (LTVP).
Once in Singapore, you can embark on your job search. Several resources are available to help with this process, such as online job portals, recruitment agencies and professional networks. Lastly, take the time to settle in and enjoy everything Singapore offers!
Is It True That the Singapore Government Renounces Your PR If You Do Not Become a Citizen?
No, it is not true that the Singapore government renounces your Permanent Residency status if you do not become a citizen.
PR holders in Singapore can live and work for as long as they wish without taking any citizenship-related action. Becoming a Singapore citizen is an option for those who meet specific criteria and would like to enjoy the full benefits of being a Singapore PR.
Aside from keeping a clean record, continuously contributing economically and socially to the nation and physically living in Singapore, Singapore PRs must successfully renew their Re-Entry Permit (REP) when it is due.