Singapore Relaxes Permanent Residency Requirements for Students

In a significant policy update, Singapore has eased its immigration rules, allowing Student Pass holders to apply for Permanent Residency (PR) under more favorable conditions. This change is expected to benefit thousands of international students aspiring to establish long-term roots in Singapore.

New Criteria for Permanent Residency Applications

Under the revised regulations, Student Pass holders can now apply for Singapore PR if they have passed at least one national examination or are enrolled in the Integrated Programme. This change removes the previous requirement of studying in Singapore for a minimum of two years before being eligible to apply for PR.

Qualifying Examinations and Programmes

Eligible national examinations include:

• Primary School Leaving Examination (PSLE)
• General Certificate of Education (GCE) N/O/A Levels

Additionally, students participating in the Integrated Programme—a six-year course leading to the GCE A-Level, International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma, or NUS High School Diploma—are also eligible.

Changes to Guardian Visas

In another forward-looking move, the Singapore government has expanded eligibility for the Long-Term Visit Pass (LTVP) to include male guardians (parents or grandparents) of children studying in Singapore on a Student Pass.

Previously, only female guardians (mothers or grandmothers) could apply for the LTVP. This change allows one guardian, regardless of gender, to accompany and support the student during their studies.

Overview of Student Passes and Other Visas

1. Student Pass
   Foreign students accepted into full-time studies in Singapore must obtain a Student Pass unless they hold a valid Dependant’s Pass, Long-Term Visit Pass, or Short-Term Visit Pass. Part-time courses or those conducted in the evenings or weekends do not qualify for a Student Pass.
2. Long-Term Visit Pass (LTVP)
   Beyond the expanded eligibility for guardians, the LTVP is also available to:
   • Spouses of Singapore citizens or PRs
   • Parents of Singapore citizens or PRs
   • Graduates from Institutes of Higher Learning seeking employment in Singapore

Application Process for Student Passes

Foreign students accepted into full-time courses in Singapore must apply for a Student Pass unless they already hold a valid Dependant’s Pass, Long-Term Visit Pass, or Short-Term Visit Pass. Key eligibility criteria include acceptance into an approved full-time course, with part-time or evening/weekend courses being ineligible.

Exemptions and Continuing Education

Students holding a Long-Term Visit Pass, Dependant’s Pass, or Immigration Exemption Order can enroll in educational institutions without needing a Student Pass, as long as their existing pass remains valid. If their current pass expires or is canceled during their studies, they must apply for a Student Pass to continue their education.

Long-Term Visit Pass Eligibility

The LTVP is available to:

• Spouses and parents of Singapore citizens or Permanent Residents
• Graduates from Institutes of Higher Learning seeking employment in Singapore
• Parents or grandparents of children studying in Singapore on a Student Pass

Impact on International Students

These policy changes demonstrate Singapore’s commitment to attracting and retaining talented individuals from around the world. By simplifying the path to PR and expanding support for guardians, Singapore aims to enhance its appeal as a leading destination for international students and their families.

These updates mark a progressive step towards creating a more inclusive and supportive environment for international students, reinforcing Singapore’s status as a global education hub.