Singapore’s efficient economy, world-class education and healthcare systems, and inclusive, multicultural society have made it a magnet for global talent and investors. Securing Permanent Resident (PR) status in Singapore is a crucial step for many in planning their long-term future. This article provides a comprehensive overview of the core benefits of Singapore PR, available application routes, and essential considerations to help you efficiently navigate the application process.I. Key Advantages of Singapore PR1. Asset Acquisition• Eligibility to Purchase Public Housing (HDB Flats): Married PR couples (with at least 3 years of PR status) may purchase resale HDB flats, a privilege not extended to most foreign nationals.  • Stamp Duty Concessions: PRs pay only 5% Additional Buyer’s Stamp Duty (ABSD) on their first residential property, compared to 60% for foreigners.2. Social Benefits & Long-Term Security• Access to Central Provident Fund (CPF): PRs are eligible for CPF, Singapore’s core social security and compulsory savings scheme, which provides benefits in retirement, healthcare, and housing. • Favorable Tax Rates: PRs pay the same progressive personal income tax rates as citizens, which are lower than in most developed countries. Overseas income is not taxable.• Education Benefits for Children: PR children have higher priority than foreigners when enrolling in government schools and kindergartens, and tuition fees are significantly lower—typically 1/3 to 1/2 of international school fees.  • Family Sponsorship: PRs may sponsor their spouse and unmarried children under 21 for PR status. Parents may apply for long-term stays via Long Term Visit Pass or Dependent Pass, enabling family reunification.  • Citizenship Pathway: PRs are eligible to apply for Singapore citizenship (subject to meeting residency and other requirements).3. Career Flexibility• No Work Pass Dependency: PRs are not restricted by work visas (e.g., Employment Pass) and can change jobs freely without requiring employer sponsorship for new work permits.4. International Mobility• Re-Entry Permit (REP): Singapore PRs can apply for a Re-Entry Permit, which allows unlimited travel in and out of Singapore without risking the loss of PR status while abroad. II. How to Apply for Singapore PR: Main Pathways ExplainedThe Immigration & Checkpoints Authority (ICA) has established different PR application pathways according to applicants’ backgrounds. The most common categories include:A. Employment-Based Routes1 .S Pass Holders• For mid-skilled workers with a minimum monthly salary of SGD 3,150 (SGD 3,650 in the financial sector), with higher salary requirements for older applicants; employer quota applies. From 1 September 2025, the minimum will increase to SGD 3,300 (SGD 3,800 in the financial sector).• Note: The PR approval rate is low for direct S Pass applications; upgrading to Employment Pass (EP) before applying is recommended.   2. Employment Pass (EP)• For professionals with monthly salaries starting at SGD 5,000 (SGD 5,500 for financial services), with higher salary requirements for older applicants. A COMPASS score of ≥40 is required.• Eligible to apply for PR after holding an EP for 2 years, with assessment based on education, work experience, and income.3. Top Talent Visas ( Tech. Pass / ONE Pass)• Tech. Pass requires a minimum monthly salary of SGD 22,500; ONE Pass requires SGD 30,000. Designed for global top-tier professionals.• The application process is highly competitive, but once approved, the likelihood of successful PR application increases significantly.B. Entrepreneur & Investment Routes1.Self-Employed EP • Requires registering a company in Singapore and holding a shareholder or director position.  • While a paid-up capital of at least S$200,000 is commonly recommended, it is not an official requirement.  • PR applications can typically be submitted after around 2 years of stable business operations, but approval is not guaranteed.2. Global Investor Programme (GIP) • Investment threshold: At least S$10 million in a business, or setting up a family office with at least S$200 million in assets under management.  • Applicants must have a proven track record in business and entrepreneurship.  • Successful GIP applicants are granted PR status directly.3. Family Office / Equity Investment • Under the 13O or 13U schemes, applicants can establish family offices to manage assets, which allows for EP applications and, after meeting certain requirements, potential PR application.  • For equity investment, applicants must invest in local companies and meet business operation requirements to be eligible to apply for PR.C. Education & Family-Based Routes1. Student Pathway• Must complete at least 2 years of study in Singapore and pass national exams (e.g., PSLE, O/A Levels).• Gaining local work experience after graduation can significantly enhance PR application competitiveness.2. Family Sponsorship• Spouse/Children: Singapore citizens or PRs may sponsor their spouse or unmarried children under 21 for PR application.• Parents: Elderly parents of Singapore citizens may apply for long-term visit passes (LTVP), but only citizens (not PRs) can sponsor their parents for this purpose. III. PR Application Process & Key Steps1. Document Preparation• Required Documents: Passport, academic certificates, payslips, tax returns, employment verification.• Supporting Documents: Recommendation letters, professional certifications, proof of family relationships (e.g., marriage certificate, birth certificate).2. Online SubmissionComplete the e-PR form and upload all documents via the ICA website (www.ica.gov.sg). A non-refundable application fee of SGD 100 applies.3. Review PeriodProcessing usually takes 6 months. During this period, you may be asked to provide additional documents or attend an interview.4. Approval & Follow-UpUpon approval, you must complete entry formalities within one year  to receive your PR identity card (IC) and Re-Entry Permit (REP). Note: All submitted information must be truthful and complete. Submitting false information or documents will result in a permanent ban on PR applications.IV. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)Q1: Can I reapply if my PR application is rejected?Yes, you can. It is recommended to wait at least 6 months before reapplying, and to address the reasons for rejection (such as insufficient income or short period of residence) by improving your supporting documents.Q2: What’s the difference between PR and Singapore citizenship?PRs do not have voting rights, cannot hold public office, and must renew their Re-Entry Permit (REP) periodically. Citizens enjoy full political rights and visa-free travel with a Singapore passport, but must renounce all other citizenships (Singapore does not allow dual nationality).Q3: Do I need to renounce my original nationality when applying for PR?No, you do not. PRs can retain their original nationality. Only those applying for Singapore citizenship are required to renounce their previous citizenship.Q4: Are PRs required to serve National Service (NS)?Main applicants who are granted Singapore PR status under the Professionals/ Technical Personnel and Skilled Workers Scheme or the Investor Scheme may be exempted from NS. Male applicants who are granted Singapore PR status as a Foreign Student or under their parents' sponsorship are required to register for NS upon reaching 16½ years old and will be scheduled for enlistment at the earliest opportunity upon reaching 18 years old. MINDEF allows students to attain educational qualifications up to the 'A' Levels certificate, the polytechnic diploma or an equivalent before they are required to serve NS. They will be enlisted at the earliest opportunity when they have finished such courses, or after turning 18, whichever is later. MINDEF does not grant deferment for university studies, regardless of whether such studies have begun.Males who are granted Singapore PR, and who were previously Singapore Citizens or Singapore PRs, are liable to be called up for NS regardless of the scheme under which their Singapore PR status was granted.Q5: How much does PR application cost?Initial application: SGD 100. Upon approval: SGD 20 for the IC and SGD 50–150 for the REP.V. ConclusionObtaining PR in Singapore is not only a “golden ticket” to long-term residency but also a strategic step toward integration into the heart of Asia’s economic powerhouse. Whether you're a professional seeking career advancement or an investor planning for your family's future, understanding the policies and preparing your application thoroughly will greatly improve your chances of success.

Pets are humans' best friends, providing loyalty, companionship, and emotional healing. Young people, in particular, place a high value on this emotional support. As a result, many individuals encounter issues related to pet ownership when renting a home. In Singapore, is it possible to keep pets while renting? What should you be aware of? Here are some relevant tips.Can You Keep Pets When Renting in Singapore?Keeping pets while renting in Singapore is not completely prohibited. It mainly depends on whether your landlord agrees and whether all aspects of your pet ownership comply with relevant laws and regulations.When keeping pets in Singapore, you first need to clearly understand and abide by the relevant laws and regulations.■The Animals and Birds Act stipulates that your designated birds, dogs, or other pets must be registered and microchipped in accordance with the standards of the International Organization for Standardization (ISO).■Under the Dog Licensing and Control Rules, to prevent and control rabies, all dogs must obtain a license by the age of 3 months. The license is valid for one year and needs to be renewed before it expires. If you fail to comply with the legal requirements for microchipping and licensing, you may face a fine of up to S$5,000.Regulations on Keeping Pets in Residential Properties：■HDB FlatsResidents are allowed to keep only one dog, and the breed must be one of the 62 approved by the Housing and Development Board (HDB). A 2-year transition period (1 September 2024 to 31 August 2026) has been introduced to allow cat owners to ease into the changes, and to meet the cat-keeping rules and licensing conditions. Cat owners must have their cat licensed by the NParks Animal & Veterinary Service (AVS) by 31 August 2026. Otherwise，keeping unlicensed pet cats will be illegal.Starting from September 1, 2024, until August 31, 2026, there will be a transition period during which HDB residents are permitted to keep cats. Pet cats must be licensed and microchipped. After September 1, 2026, keeping unlicensed pet cats will be illegal. Please refer to the guidelines from NParks Animal & Veterinary Service (AVS).■Private Residential Properties Generally, residents can keep a maximum of three pets. However, some condominium management committees may have stricter regulations regarding the types and sizes of pets allowed. Written permission from the management committee may be required. What Should You Consider When Renting with Pets in Singapore?Lease TermsBefore signing the lease, make sure that the contract clearly states the terms allowing pet ownership, including details such as the types and numbers of pets, to avoid disputes later. Undeniably, having pets is likely to cause damage to furniture, floors, walls, etc. Therefore, you may need to prepare for additional rent or a deposit and bear the corresponding repair or compensation costs.Comply with RegulationsIn public areas such as corridors, elevators, and community gardens, you need to abide by relevant regulations. Promptly clean up after your pet, keep it on a leash, and ensure that certain specific dog breeds wear muzzles to prevent them from harming people or causing disturbances to other residents.Noise ControlAvoid excessive noise from pets, especially during quiet hours, to prevent disturbing neighbors. Otherwise, you may face complaints and penalties.Hygiene and CleaningRegularly clean and groom your pet to maintain a hygienic living environment and prevent odors, which could negatively impact your home and the surrounding area.Related Reading：Tenants must see：Singapore Tenancy Agreement and Key TermsHow to Find Pet - friendly Accommodation in Singapore?■Look for listings on legitimate real estate websites and contact a licensed real estate agent to confirm whether the landlord allows pet ownership and any relevant details.■Hire your own tenant's agent to help you find a suitable place and communicate your requirements.■Ensure that the accommodation has enough space for the pet to move around and rest. Also, check for nearby facilities such as pet stores, veterinary clinics, and open parks, so you can purchase pet supplies, access medical services promptly, and provide a suitable space for your pet to run and play freely. List of Popular Pet - Friendly Residences in Singapore■Some sought-after pet-friendly condominiums include:1. The Sound (East coast road)2. Costa Del Sol (ECP)3. The Bayshore (ECP)4. Mandarin Gardens (ECP)5. Condos around Fort Road and Meyer Road (Katong)6. The Sail@Marina Bay (Marina Boulevard)7. Nouvel 18 (Anderson Road)8. Leonie Condotel (Leonie Hill Road)9. Orchard Scotts (Anthony Road)10. The Clift (McCallum Street)11. J Gateway (Gateway drive)12. Braddell Heights Estate13. Reflections at Keppel Bay14. Optima (Tanah Merah)15. Gem residences located between Lorong 4 and Lorong 6 Tao Payoh（with dedicated pet-friendly amenities such as play pools)■Popular Pet Parks, where you can find some pet - friendly HDBs nearby.1. Bishan, around Ang Mo Kio Park.2. Potong Pasir Ave 13. Tai Gin Road4. Turf Club Road5. Sembawang road6. Tiong Bahru7. Yishun Central8. Hougang Ave 109. Yuan Ching Road10. Clementi Woods (West coast road)11. Pasir Ris street 5112. Koong Seng road13. Mariam way (Old Tampines Road)14. Jalan Selamat and Lengkong Tujuh15. Jalan Pari Burong and Upper Changi RoadWe recommend using Housebell, which offers a vast array of genuine property listings. All listings are sourced from CEA-registered agents to help you find your ideal home!  If you have any questions, feel free to contact the online customer service for professional assistance.

Compared with houses in other countries, houses in Singapore have a special space - household shelters. According to the Civil Defence Shelter Act passed in 1997, all newly built Housing and Development Board (HDB) flats and private residential buildings must have civil defence shelters either within the house or on the floor.Properties in Singapore.What are civil defence shelters?Civil defence shelters in Singapore are divided into public shelters and household shelters.Public civil defence shelters are set up in public places such as subway stations, schools, and community clubs (similar to community service centres in China) for citizens to take refuge in case of emergencies. Among them, the most important public civil defence shelters are subway stations. These shelters can accommodate three thousand people in smaller ones and 19,000 people in larger ones. Each shelter is equipped with a triple protection system: platform screen doors to isolate the track area, explosion-proof steel doors to withstand shock waves, and an independent ventilation, water, and electricity system. There are dry toilets inside, and newly built ones in recent years also have decontamination rooms to disinfect the evacuees. Emergency operation guidelines are widely publicized within the stations to achieve a seamless switch between daily transportation and wartime protection.Household civil defence shelters are located inside residential buildings. They are either within the residential unit (household shelter), built next to the kitchen, bathroom, or near the entrance for the use of a single family, or set up in the stairwell or emergency escape route for the shared use of all residents on the floor (storey shelter).What do household shelters look like?The government has strict standards for household shelters.Area and shape. There are not only certain specifications for the length and width, but also relevant regulations for the capacity and shape. The area of all household shelters should not exceed 4.8㎡.Wall panels. The thickness and strength of the "three panels" (ceiling panel, floor panel, and wall panel) are strengthened according to the standards. They are constructed with reinforced concrete, which is explosion-proof and fireproof, providing shelter for residents in case of emergencies such as air raids or explosions.Doors. They are specially made steel doors, usually sealed and explosion-proof. Paired with specially made door frames to ensure structural stability. The doors of household shelters cannot be removed or modified.Vents. Household shelters are equipped with two vents to ensure air circulation. Residents should never block or modify the vents to avoid problems when they need to use the shelters.Sockets. Household shelters are equipped with sockets for electricity, the TV, radios, etc., so that people can receive external information in a timely manner.How do people use household shelters?In peacetime, people transform household shelters into practical spaces and make full use of them. Some are used as storage rooms to store various daily necessities and sundries. Some are converted into maid's rooms. The relevant authorities have not prohibited employers from converting household shelters into maid's rooms, but the Ministry of Manpower stipulates that employers must provide at least a mattress, a pillow, and a blanket for the maid and ensure that the room is well-ventilated. Some convert household shelters into cloakrooms, small studies, pet rooms, or even small fitness rooms, showing great flexibility in their uses. Of course, some people make full preparations for emergencies according to the original purpose of household shelters. They not only leave space in the shelters for taking refuge, but also stock up on emergency food and water sufficient for 72 hours.In addition, since the iron doors of household shelters are rather obtrusive and cannot be altered, many families decorate to cover them up, creating a visually invisible effect.In short, civil defence shelters have long become a major feature of residential buildings in Singapore. They are not only protective spaces for ensuring the safety of lives, but also a manifestation of a country's constant awareness of potential dangers and its preparedness even in times of peace.You can easily search for listings on Housebell, Singapore's first bilingual real estate platform. It offers a vast selection of authentic listings, all sourced from CEA-certified agents, to assist you in finding your dream home. If you have any questions, feel free to contact the online customer service for professional assistance.