The Professionals, Technical Personnel and Skilled Workers (PTS) Scheme is the most popular route for foreign professionals to obtain Singapore Permanent Resident (PR) status. If you currently hold an Employment Pass, S Pass, PEP or EntrePass, this scheme was designed for you. According to industry estimates, more than 95% of professionals secure their PR through this Singapore PR application route.
Employment Pass & EntrePass Holders
As a foreign professional working in Singapore, you are likely holding an Employment Pass or EntrePass. These are temporary passes that allow you and your family to stay in Singapore for 1–2 years at a time, renewable depending on eligibility.
Why Apply for Permanent Residency?
Even if you already live and work here, being a PR unlocks benefits not available to pass holders:
- Freedom to live, enter and leave Singapore without new visas
- Ability to include spouse and unmarried children aged under 21 in the application
- Possibility of long-stay visas for parents
- Flexibility to change jobs without needing a new work permit
- CPF contributions from your employer that support housing, retirement and healthcare
- Higher priority for housing loans
- Eligibility to apply for Singapore Citizenship after a few years as a PR
As of 2018, there were 522,347 PR holders living in Singapore, and demand continues to rise.
Applying for PR Under the PTS Scheme
The PTS Scheme aims to retain skilled talent and strengthen Singapore’s long-term workforce. Applicants must:
- Hold an Employment Pass, S Pass, EntrePass or PEP
- Be working in Singapore at the time of application
- Have at least 6 months of salary slips from your current employer
What Affects Your PR Approval Chance?
ICA evaluates each profile holistically using several factors:
- Employment track record and progression
- Educational qualifications and institution reputation
- Financial stability including tax compliance
- Community involvement and integration efforts
- Family ties in Singapore
Employment History
Career stability, growth and your employer’s credentials help demonstrate that you add ongoing value to Singapore’s economy. Professional development and upgrading reflect adaptability and commitment.
Educational Background
Graduates from reputable universities are generally viewed more favourably. It helps assure the authorities of your skill level and economic potential.
Financial Background
Good financial standing matters. A clean record with timely payments, no bad debts, and consistent income tax filings will support your case.
Community Involvement
Volunteering and community participation have become increasingly important. Showing that you contribute to local society demonstrates integration and long-term intent.
Family Ties
Applicants with family members in Singapore tend to score higher in terms of societal rootedness and stability.
Required Documents
PR applications must be complete and error-free. Missing documents may lead to immediate rejection. Be prepared to submit:
- Completed online application form (Form 4A)
- Birth certificate
- Marriage certificate (if applicable)
- Letter of employment with salary details
- Past 6 months’ pay slips
- Latest resume
- Supporting proof of community involvement (if any)
Partner with First Immigrations for a Higher Success Rate
First Immigrations is one of Singapore’s leading PR consulting agencies with years of experience helping professionals achieve PR success. 90% of rejected cases we review contain submission errors or poorly presented profiles that could have been avoided.
We assess your eligibility, identify strengths to highlight and correct weaknesses before submission. This ensures your application is precise, professional, and aligned with ICA expectations.
Speak to our specialists today and take the first step toward Permanent Residency in Singapore.
