Short answer: Singapore PR applications are submitted online through the ICA e-Service using Singpass. You prepare your documents, complete the form, upload your files and photo, and pay the application fee. ICA states that complete applications are generally processed within six months, although some take longer. If approved, you complete formalities including the Entry Permit, Re-Entry Permit, and Identity Card. Always confirm current fees and requirements on ICA's official PR page.
Key takeaways
- Everything happens online through the ICA e-Service; there is no walk-in submission.
- Preparing documents is the longest and most error-prone stage.
- The S$100 fee is per applicant and is not refunded if rejected.
- You cannot file a new application while one is still in process.
The process at a glance
Every route to Singapore PR follows the same broad path. What changes between routes is who submits the application and which documents are needed.
The 5 steps in detail
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Step 1: Confirm your eligibility route
Check which category you fall under: EP or S Pass holder (the PTS scheme), spouse or child of a citizen or PR, aged parent, student, or investor. Each route has a different submitter and different documents. If you are unsure, start with our eligibility guide.
Who submits depends on the route -
Step 2: Prepare your documents
This is where most of the work happens, and where most avoidable mistakes occur. You will need identity, employment, education, income, and family documents, with official English translations for anything in another language. Prepare everything before you start the online form, because uploads must be completed within the submission window. Use our documents checklist as a starting point.
Longest stage: weeks to months -
Step 3: Submit through the ICA e-Service
- Log in to the ICA e-Service with your Singpass. For sponsored routes, the citizen or PR sponsor logs in instead.
- Complete every section of the form: personal details, family, education, and employment history.
- Upload your documents and a compliant photo.
- Pay the S$100 fee per applicant. It is non-refundable regardless of the outcome.
- Submit, and keep your acknowledgement and reference number.
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Step 4: Wait, and respond quickly to any requests
ICA states that applications are generally processed within six months when all documents are in order, though some cases take longer. During this period, ICA may request additional documents. Respond through the official channel by the stated deadline. You can check your application through ICA's e-Service; a pending status does not reveal the likely outcome. See our detailed guide to checking Singapore PR application status.
ICA: about 6 months if complete -
Step 5: The outcome and formalities
You will be informed of the outcome by email. If approved, you complete the formalities with ICA, including the Entry Permit, Re-Entry Permit, and Singapore Identity Card. The fees are listed in the fee table below.
One application at a time. ICA will not accept a new or repeated application for the same person while a current application is still being processed.
How long each stage typically takes
- Document preparation: a few weeks to a few months, depending on how organised your records are and whether translations are needed.
- Online submission: a few hours once everything is ready.
- ICA processing: within six months for complete applications, per ICA. Some cases take longer.
- Formalities after approval: completed with ICA after you receive the approval letter.
Government fees
The application fee is paid at submission. The remaining fees apply only if your application is approved.
| Stage | Fee | When |
|---|---|---|
| Application | S$100 per applicant, non-refundable | At submission |
| Entry Permit | S$20 | On approval |
| Re-Entry Permit, 5 years | S$50 | On approval |
| Singapore Identity Card | S$50 | On approval |
The Re-Entry Permit matters. A PR who travels out of Singapore without a valid Re-Entry Permit risks losing PR status. Renew it before it expires.
After the outcome
If approved
- Complete the Entry Permit, Re-Entry Permit, and Identity Card formalities with ICA.
- Keep your Re-Entry Permit valid whenever you travel.
- When eligible, consider whether citizenship makes sense for you.
If rejected
- You can strengthen your profile and reapply; there is no official waiting period.
- Review honestly what could be improved before applying again.
- Read our guide on what to do after a PR rejection.
Prefer not to manage this alone?
We guide you through every step, from document preparation to submission. Start with a free consultation or check your readiness first. See our end-to-end PR application service.
This guide is general information based on official ICA publications, and is not legal advice. Fees and processes may change; always confirm current requirements with ICA. All PR decisions are made solely by ICA.