Singapore

Singapore is often recognized as the top city in Asia for living, thanks to its outstanding infrastructure and public services. With one of the lowest crime rates globally, it provides a high standard of living for its residents. The country is also considered one of the wealthiest in the world based on GDP per capita. Its reputation for safety, cleanliness, and efficiency makes it an attractive destination for both individuals and businesses. Additionally, Singapore’s strategic location and robust economic environment offer ample opportunities for investment and professional growth.

Residence by Investment Overview

Foreign nationals can seek permanent residence through the Singapore Global Investor Program. This initiative targets entrepreneurs and investors who are prepared to make significant financial investments in Singapore, aiming to attract affluent individuals who wish to establish their residence in the country.

Image

Investment

Minimum investment of SGD 10 million

Image

Processing Time

Nine to twelve months

Image

Key Benefit

Eligibility for citizenship after two years of permanent residence

The Singapore Global Investor Program

One of the Singaporean government’s goals is to attract talent for residency and employment. The aim is for foreign nationals to make Singapore their home by obtaining permanent residency.

The Singapore Global Investor Program is tailored for affluent and experienced foreign entrepreneurs, business owners, and managers who are interested in establishing a business or investing in Singapore and wish to settle in the country. Approved applicants are granted permanent residence status in Singapore within nine to twelve months.

Benefits of Singaporean residence by investment

  • Political, social, and economic stability

  • Safety, with a high standard of living

  • World-class education, healthcare, and transport systems

  • Leading international financial center

  • State-of-the-art business facilities and telecommunications

  • Multicultural environment

  • Favorable tax laws

Singapore has become a premier global destination, characterized by its diverse and harmonious multiracial and multicultural community. With a population of 6 million, English and Mandarin are the primary languages spoken. Residents enjoy the benefits of the country’s political stability and economic success, along with a respected education system and dependable healthcare services.

The country offers a favorable tax environment and has consistently implemented tax policies that benefit foreign investors. Singapore's tax system is based on a territorial principle.

Requirements of the Singapore Global Investor Program

Established business owners, next-generation business owners, founders of fast-growing tech companies, and family office principals with substantial entrepreneurial, business, and management experience may select one of the following investment options to acquire Singaporean permanent residence.

Option A:

Demonstrate an investment of SGD 10 million (including paid-up capital) into a new or existing business in Singapore, and hire at least 30 employees to be eligible for the re-entry permit renewal after the initial five-year period. At least half the employees must be Singaporean citizens and 10 must be new hires if the business was already in existence.

Option B:

Invest SGD 25 million into a fund approved by the Singapore Economic Development Board that invests in Singapore-based companies.

Option C:

Establish a Singapore-based single family office with assets under management of at least SGD 200 million. At least SGD 50 million of the assets must be deployed and maintained throughout the five-year residence period in any one of the following investment categories:

  • Companies listed on exchanges licensed by the Monetary Authority of Singapore

  • Qualifying debt securities such as bonds, notes, commercial papers, and certificates of deposit

  • Funds distributed by Singapore-licensed or -registered managers

  • Private equity injections into non-listed Singapore-based businesses

To qualify for the re-entry permit renewal under Option C, hire at least five incremental family office professionals by the end of the five-year period. At least three employees must be Singaporean citizens.

Procedures and time frame of Singaporean residence by investment

The process to obtain permanent residence through the Singapore Global Investor Program typically takes nine to twelve months. Applicants must submit a personal profile and a proposed investment plan using an e-application form, accompanied by supporting hard copy documents. After submitting their application, they are required to attend an interview. If they meet all the necessary criteria, the Immigration and Checkpoints Authority of Singapore will issue an approval in principle, which is valid for six months. During this period, applicants must complete the required investment according to their selected option. Successful applicants must finalize their permanent residence status within one year of receiving their final approval letter.

The investor's spouse and children under 21 are eligible to apply for permanent residence as part of the investor’s application. Male dependents will be subject to national service obligations.

Parents and unmarried children aged 21 and over are not eligible to be included in the permanent residence application but can apply for a five-year long-term visit pass instead.

Re-entry permit validity

Upon the formalization of their permanent residence status, the investor will be issued with a re-entry permit (REP) for five years. A valid REP is necessary whenever you wish to travel in and out of Singapore. It enables the investor to retain their permanent residence status while away from Singapore.

After the first five years, the REP can be renewed if the investor fulfills certain conditions that are subject to the chosen option. There are different renewal requirements for the REP at the end of the fifth year, based on business milestones being met, physical time spent in Singapore, or a combination of these.

Acquiring Singaporean citizenship

Singaporean citizenship is granted on a single citizenship basis. After residing in Singapore as a permanent resident for two years, individuals may apply for Singaporean citizenship.

The Singaporean passport is the most powerful travel document globally, offering visa-free or visa-on-arrival access to 193 destinations, including the Schengen Area in Europe, Canada, China, and the USA.

Singapore does not permit dual citizenship, and this policy is strictly enforced. Therefore, it may not be the best choice for those seeking to hold multiple citizenships and passports.

Singapore residence by investment program frequently asked questions

What is the Singapore residence by investment program?

The Singapore residence by investment program, known as the Global Investor Program (GIP), grants residence to individuals and their families through significant economic contributions.

What are the investment options available for the Singapore Global Investor Program?

Investment options include investing in a new or existing business in Singapore, investing in a fund approved by the Singapore Economic Development Board, or establishing a single-family office with significant assets under management in specified categories.

What are the benefits of obtaining Singaporean residence through investment?

Benefits include the right to live, work, and study in Singapore, a politically, economically, and socially stable country, as well as access to a favorable tax regime, and a high quality of life.

What is the minimum investment required for the Singapore Global Investor Program?

The minimum investment starts at SGD 10 million.

How long does it take to process an application for the Singapore Global Investor Program?

The processing time is approximately nine to twelve months.

Can family members be included in the Singapore Global Investor Program application?

Yes, the main applicant can include their spouse and dependent children in the application.

What are the residence requirements for the Singapore Global Investor Program?

Applicants must spend at least 183 days per year in Singapore to maintain their residence status.

What documents are required for the Singapore Global Investor Program application?

Required documents include a valid passport, proof of investment, health insurance, a clean criminal record, and other supporting documents.

Is it possible to obtain Singaporean citizenship through the residence by investment program?

Yes, after maintaining residence for two years, investors may be eligible to apply for Singaporean citizenship.

What is the process for applying to the Singapore Global Investor Program?

Applicants must submit an online personal profile and investment plan with supporting documents, attend an interview, and if approved, have six months to make the required investment. Permanent residence must be finalized within one year of final approval.

John Harris

Trust Path Visas made the complex process of obtaining citizenship seamless. Their expert guidance and timely updates kept us stress-free throughout. Highly recommend!

Posted on

Emily Roberts

I am grateful for the exceptional service provided by Trust Path Visas. Their team was professional, responsive, and dedicated to helping us achieve our residency goals.

Posted on

Michael Singh

The team at Trust Path Visas exceeded my expectations. Their personalized approach and attention to detail made the journey to citizenship smooth and successful.

Posted on

Sophia Martinez

Trust Path Visas turned what seemed like a daunting task into an achievable reality. Their expertise and commitment ensured that I secured my residency with ease.

Posted on

Linda Chang

The professionalism and expertise of Trust Path Visas were evident from day one. They navigated the complexities of residency applications with confidence.

Posted on

Anna Wilson

Trust Path Visas made the complex process of applying for citizenship straightforward. Their expert team was always available to answer our questions and guide us.

Posted on

Mark Stevens

The team at Trust Path Visas was exceptional in helping us secure residency. Their professionalism and commitment to our success were evident every step of the way.

Posted on

Jennifer Lee

Trust Path Visas provided outstanding service during our citizenship application process. Their expertise and timely communication made all the difference.

Posted on

Contact us today

Trust Path Visas assists international clients in obtaining residence and citizenship under the respective programs. Contact us to arrange an initial private consultation

Quick Contact

  • +880 1975-048056

  • (778) 316-3929

  • Canada Office: 9850 King George Boulevard, V3T 0P9, Surrey, Canada

Copyright © 2024 Trust Path Visas All Rights Reserved