What are the benefits of being a Singapore Citizen (SC) or Permanent Resident (PR)?

Healthcare benefits

SCs and PRs have access to an unmatched and heavily subsidised healthcare system through government schemes such as Medisave. SCs can receive up to 80% subsidy for inpatient treatment in public hospitals, while PRs typically receive about 60%.

Tax benefits

As an SC or a PR, you’ll enjoy comparatively low and progressive personal income tax rates and tax reliefs. Singapore also offers tax incentives and rebates, such as the Startup Tax Exemption for new businesses, which are available to both SCs and PRs.

Business ownership and flexibility

The Singapore government also offers a range of government grants, loans, and funding schemes, such as the Enterprise Development Grant, to SCs and PRs.

If you think Singapore Citizenship or Permanent Residency in Singapore is for you, then you’re in for a treat! We’ve compiled everything you need to know for your application.

Education benefits

SCs and PRs get to enjoy lower school fees in all public schools and universities. SCs also have priority access to these schools.

Singapore Citizen Application

Looking to become a citizen of one of the fastest growing business hubs in the world? Look no further — here’s everything you need to know about applying for Singapore Citizenship.

Why should I apply for Singapore Citizenship?

Citizenship gives you the right to live, work, and travel without restrictions. As a business owner, this will definitely enhance your business as it opens up access to a pool of local resources, talents and government support (such as SME grants). Also, there are tax benefits too! 

Now, let’s talk about the Singapore passport. As a Singapore Citizen, you’ll hold the world’s best passport, which allows you to travel visa-free to 195 countries. This makes international business travel a whole lot easier.

If you’re looking to settle down in Singapore long term, our team here at ScAilable will help you apply for citizenship, and make the process a breeze for you.

Am I eligible to apply for Singapore Citizenship?

Of course, obtaining citizenship is not a simple task. You have to have been a Permanent Resident for at least 2 years, and have demonstrated economic contributions during your time here. You’ll also need to meet some other requirements, which includes your qualifications and family ties. To find out about the more detailed criteria, visit ICA’s website.

National Service (NS) in Singapore

All male Singapore Citizens (SC) or Singapore Permanent Residents (PR) are required to enlist for NS upon turning 18 years old. It involves two years of service in the Singapore Armed Forces (SAF), Singapore Police Force (SPF), or the Singapore Civil Defence Force (SCDF). Through these 2 years, you’ll foster unity with people from diverse backgrounds, and a strong sense of belonging and camaraderie. Do remember to enlist or you may face a fine or even imprisonment. You may apply for deferment through the NS portal.

How do I apply for Singapore Citizenship?

Buckle in, because you’re in for a long ride. 

Step 1: Prepare documents
To start, you’ll have to prepare all the necessary documents. (Spoiler alert, there are quite a number!)
Step 2: Apply online
You may apply at this portal. Do note that there is an application fee of SGD $130. Your application will be processed within a year.
Step 3: Completion of Formalities

If your application is approved and you’re aged 16 to 60 years old, you’ll have to complete the mandatory Singapore Citizenship Journey (SCJ) programme.

Singapore Permanent Residency

Here’s everything you need to know about becoming a Permanent Resident in Singapore.

What is Permanent Residency in Singapore?

As a Permanent Resident (PR) of Singapore, you’ll be able to live and work in Singapore. As a PR, you won’t need to apply for work permits or passes. You’re also able to operate your business without restrictions and will have easier access to a wide range of funding and government support. PR status also gives you better personal income tax rates and access to various tax relief schemes.

Am I eligible for Permanent Residency in Singapore?

To be eligible for Permanent Residency in Singapore, you generally have to meet at least one of the following criteria:

  • For EP holders, you must have worked in Singapore for at least 2-6 years
  • You are a successful business owner in Singapore with demonstrated contributions
  • You are a spouse or child of a Singapore Citizen
  • You are a high net worth individual making significant investments in Singapore

ICA will also take into account other factors, such as your family profile and your qualifications.

For a more detailed eligibility criteria list, please refer to ICA’s website.

How do I apply for Permanent Residency?

Of course applying for Permanent Residency in Singapore is no easy feat. We’ve helped many of our clients to successfully become PRs, so here’s a quick overview of what the application process looks like.

Step 1: Prepare documents

To start, you’ll have to prepare all the necessary documents. (Spoiler alert, there are quite a number!)

Step 2: Apply online

You may apply at this portal. You’ll have to pay an application fee of SGD $100. Your application will be processed within 6 months.

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