By the WahLiao desk · Last verified 29 September 2026
Employment Pass and S Pass holders can apply to become Singapore permanent residents (PRs) through the Immigration and Checkpoints Authority (ICA), for themselves, their spouse and unmarried children under 21. Applications are made online only, through ICA’s e-Service with Singpass. ICA does not publish its criteria, approval is discretionary, and ICA says it has no connection with any agent who claims to improve your chances.
PR is the step many long-term residents consider after a few years here. It brings stability, CPF and access to public housing and schools on better terms, along with obligations such as National Service for some sons. It is worth understanding both sides before you apply.
Applying for PR: quick facts
| Who can apply | Employment Pass and S Pass holders; spouses and children of citizens and PRs; aged parents of citizens; some students; investors through EDB’s Global Investor Programme |
| How | Online only, through ICA’s e-Service, logged in with Singpass |
| Who is included | Yourself, your spouse and unmarried children under 21 |
| Criteria | Not published; ICA assesses each application |
| After approval | A blue identity card for those 15 and over, and a Re-Entry Permit to travel |
| Agents | ICA says it has no affiliation with any immigration consultant |
The WahLiao Verdict
| Cost | A modest processing fee; the bigger cost is the obligations that come with PR. |
| What you get | Stability, CPF savings, and better access to housing and schools. |
| The catch | No published criteria and no guarantee; many applications are refused. |
| Never | Pay an agent who promises approval. |
| Families with sons | Understand National Service obligations before applying. |
How to apply
- Log in to ICA’s e-Service with your Singpass.
- Fill in the application online, or download the form, complete it offline and submit it online.
- Upload supporting documents. Documents not in English need an accepted translation: from the issuing country’s embassy, a notary public, or a private translation attested by the embassy or notarised.
- Every applicant added must log in and review the form before it can be submitted.
- Pay the processing fee and wait for ICA’s decision.
What ICA looks at
ICA does not publish a points system or a checklist, and decisions are at its discretion. Applicants commonly point to their time in Singapore, their job and salary, qualifications, family ties, and how they have become part of the community. Treat anyone who claims to know the formula with caution.
What PR brings
Permanent residents aged 15 and over receive a blue identity card, contribute to CPF (at graduated rates for the first two years), and gain access to MediShield Life and better terms for housing and schools. PRs need a valid Re-Entry Permit to travel abroad and return as a PR. Sons who become PRs are generally liable for National Service; check MINDEF’s rules before applying.
Permanent residence: FAQ
Can Employment Pass holders apply for PR?
Yes. Employment Pass and S Pass holders can apply online to ICA for themselves, their spouse and unmarried children under 21.
What are the criteria for Singapore PR?
ICA does not publish them. Each application is assessed at ICA’s discretion.
Do I need an agent to apply for PR?
No. ICA says it has no affiliation with any migration agent and does not endorse them. You apply yourself, online.
Can a PR travel freely?
Yes, with a valid Re-Entry Permit, which PRs need to return to Singapore as permanent residents.
Read next
This page belongs to Moving to Singapore. For the money side, read CPF for new PRs and income tax for new residents.
Sources checked 29 September 2026: ICA, becoming a permanent resident; ICA, how to apply; MOM, EP holders applying for PR. General information, not immigration advice. Last updated 29 September 2026.
