Becoming a Singapore citizen is an esteemed opportunity that offers individuals a plethora of benefits, including social rights, political participation, and economic stability. Singapore’s immigration system is known for its stringent yet efficient procedures, ensuring that those who become citizens contribute positively to the nation’s development. In this article, we will provide you with a comprehensive guide on Singapore citizenship, covering eligibility criteria, application procedures, and important information to help you handle the process smoothly.
Eligibility for Singapore Citizenship
You are eligible to apply for Singapore Citizenship if you:
- Have been a Singapore Permanent Resident (PR) for at least two years and are aged 21 and above (you can apply together with your spouse and any unmarried children aged below 21 born to you within the context of a legal marriage or legally adopted by you).
- Have been a PR for at least 2 years and have been married to a Singapore citizen for at least two years.
- Are an unmarried child aged below 21 born within the context of a legal marriage to, or have been legally adopted by, a Singapore citizen.
- Are a PR studying in Singapore; and have been residing/living in Singapore for more than 3 years (of which, at least one year as a PR); and have passed at least one national exam (i.e. PSLE, GCE ‘N’/‘O’/‘A’ levels), or are in the Integrated Programme (IP).
- Are a PR and an Aged Parent of a Singapore citizen.
What Documents Are Required?
You may find the following relevant checklist for the documents that you need to submit for your Singapore Citizenship Application via ICA website. When preparing your documents, it is important to ensure that the file size of each document does not exceed 2MB for a smooth submission.
Application Process
Government Fees
For Adult Permanent Residents (PRs) and Children of PRs
Processing Fees – S$100 for each applicant
Successful Application Fees – S$70 for your Singapore Citizenship Certificate and S$10 for a Singapore Identity Card (applicable to new citizens aged 15 and above)
For Overseas Born Children to Singapore citizen Parents*
(*where the gestational mother is a Singapore citizen; or father is a Singapore citizen and is married to the child’s gestational mother at the time of birth of the child)
Processing Fees – $18 for each applicant (inclusive of Singapore Citizenship Certificate)
Successful Application Fees – S$10 for a Singapore Identity Card (applicable to new citizens aged 15 and above)
For all other overseas or locally born children
Processing Fees – S$100 for each applicant
Successful Application Fees – S$70 for your Singapore Citizenship Certificate and S$10 for a Singapore Identity Card (applicable to new citizens aged 15 and above)
National Service (NS) Obligation
Under the Enlistment Act, all male Singapore citizens and Permanent Residents, unless exempted1, are required to serve National Service (NS). Following the completion of full-time NS, they will become Operationally Ready National Servicemen (NSmen). An NSman’s obligation will end at the age of 50 years (for Officers) or 40 years (for other ranks).
NS-liable persons are required to register for NS upon reaching 16 1/2 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 are enlisted at the earliest opportunity when they have finished such courses, or after turning 18 years old, whichever is later. MINDEF does not grant deferment for university studies, regardless of whether such studies have begun. All male applicants are required to access www.cmpb.gov.sg for information on NS deferment, pre-enlistment process and Exit Permit requirements, before proceeding with the application.
For further enquiries, please contact:
Central Manpower Base
Email: contact@ns.sg
Contact no: 1800-3676767 (local) or 65-65676767 (overseas)
**Male applicants who are granted PR status under the Professionals/Technical Personnel and Skilled Workers Scheme or the Investor Scheme are exempted from NS.
What are the other obligations?
Dual Citizenship
Singapore does not generally allow dual citizenship. Upon acquiring Singapore citizenship, individuals are required to renounce any foreign citizenships they currently hold. However, for children who acquire Singapore citizenship under the age of 21, they are allowed to hold dual citizenship until they reach the age of 21, at which point they will be required to make a decision and renounce any other citizenship.
Restrictions on CPF Withdrawal
Upon turning 55 years old, Singapore Citizens and Permanent Residents (PRs) have the option to withdraw any excess funds from their CPF accounts. The amount that can be withdrawn is subject to specific limitations based on the balances in their respective CPF accounts.
Upon reaching the age of 65, individuals will start receiving a monthly payout from their CPF Retirement Account (RA) until their passing. The exact monthly payout is determined by the remaining funds available in the RA.
For more detailed information regarding CPF contributions, different CPF account types, the process of withdrawal, and specifics about the payout system, it is advisable to visit the CPF website.
In conclusion, the Singapore Citizenship application process serves as a significant milestone for PRs seeking to become citizens of Singapore. The application requires careful attention to detail and thorough preparation of the necessary documents. Singapore offers a rich multicultural environment, a strong economy, and numerous benefits to its citizens. With a well-prepared application, applicants have the opportunity to embark on a new chapter of their lives as proud citizens of Singapore. Reach out to our immigration consultants for a complimentary consultation to start preparing your Singapore Citizenship application today!
