Singapore Relaxes PR Rules for International Students

Synopsis:

International students in Singapore can now apply for permanent residency (PR) right after passing national exams like the PSLE or GCE levels. Previously, they had to wait two years after completing their courses before becoming eligible to apply.

Students aged 15 and above can submit their PR applications through the Immigration and Checkpoints Authority’s (ICA) e-service website, making the process more accessible and efficient.

In addition, male guardians can now apply for long-term visit passes to stay with their children studying in Singapore, a privilege that was previously limited to female guardians only.

THE NEWS STORY:-

Singapore has made it easier for international students to gain permanent residency (PR), aligning itself with other top study destinations.

International students can now apply for PR as soon as they pass at least one national exam, such as the PSLE or GCE ‘N’/’O’/’A’ levels. Previously, students had to wait at least two years after completing their courses before they could apply for PR.

The Primary School Leaving Examination (PSLE) is a national exam taken by students at the end of their primary education in Singapore. The Singapore-Cambridge General Certificate of Education Advanced Level (GCE A-Level) exam is open to both school students and other candidates.

In addition, students enrolled in integrated programs are now also eligible to apply for PR.

Students aged 15 and above can submit their PR applications through the Immigration and Checkpoints Authority’s (ICA) e-service website using either the ‘Singpass’ or ‘non-Singpass’ options. This change is part of Singapore’s ongoing effort to attract and retain international talent.

Another policy update allows male guardians to apply for long-term visit passes to accompany international students. Previously, only female guardians, such as mothers or grandmothers, could apply. However, only one guardian is allowed per student.

International students enrolling in a Singapore university must obtain a student pass unless they hold a valid dependent’s pass, Long Term Visit Pass (LTVP), or short-term visit pass. It’s important to note that students in part-time courses or evening and weekend classes are not eligible for a student pass, according to the ICA.

Securing PR status in Singapore offers several benefits, including the freedom to live and work in the country without visa restrictions, access to social security services, and a potential path to citizenship. However, Josephine Teo, Singapore’s Second Minister of Home Affairs, quoted, “ PR applications are also evaluated based on the applicant’s ability to integrate with the local community and their potential contribution to society”.

By January 2023, data from the Ministry of Education and ICA showed over 79,300 international student pass holders in Singapore, highlighting the city’s strong appeal as a global education hub.