The Singapore permanent resident status is highly in demand among both foreign workers and expatriates. According to data from 2016, there are more than 500,000 Singapore PR holders, and the number is still growing. This is because unlike certain countries in the world, Singapore PR holders get to enjoy many of the rights and benefits that full citizens have. In this article, we cover what Singapore PR holders get to enjoy as well as certain obligations that are required of you in return.
Firstly, as a Singapore PR, you can live in, enter or leave the nation without having to go through the tedious process of applying for separate Singapore visas for work and leisure respectively. Intuitively, this means much less hassle when travelling to and fro while also reducing paper work for your employer.
Similar to the first, point, with a Singapore PR, you can freely change jobs without having to reapply for a new Singapore work permit each time. More importantly, this negates the chance whereby your second application is delayed or rejected. As such, you can confidently switch jobs without fear of losing out on the right to stay in the country. Case studies on this issue have included disgruntled former employers intentionally delaying the cancellation of the initial employment pass, thus resulting in employees being unable to immediately start their new job.
Thirdly, the various subsidies and loans available to permanent residents as opposed to foreigners could make a large difference for big ticket items such as housing. In fact, Singapore PR holders are eligible to purchase second hand Housing Development Board (HDB) flats. HDBs are the most affordable housing option in Singapore, and are a cultural icon among its citizens. As such, moving your family into a HDB flat would give you a financially affordable situation would also being in the heart of all things Singaporean.
Fourth, once you have obtained permanent resident status, it will be easier to get the Long Term Social Visit Pass for your family and parents so that they can stay in Singapore for an extended period of time. Singapore has a reputation for being a safe and healthy environment to live in. Branded as a garden city, the convenience in terms of food and transport is up there with the best in the world. Moreover, the relatively low crime rate combined with an anti-gun law helps to cement the nation’s place among the safest countries in the world. It is also worth noting that the strong cultural diversity and racial acceptance within the country makes it easy for your family to fit in.
Interested to apply for pr in singapore? Reach out to a PR application agency today to find out how you can best prepare for the application.