How foreign investors can secure permanent residence in Singapore

Singapore has positioned itself as a top destination for wealthy and experienced foreign entrepreneurs through its Global Investor Program (GIP), which offers a route to permanent residency. The initiative is designed for investors who wish to live, work, and contribute to the country’s economy by starting businesses or making substantial investments. Successful applicants can expect to obtain permanent residence status within nine to twelve months.

The program is part of the Singaporean government’s broader aim to attract global talent and strengthen its business environment. Applicants must meet strict eligibility requirements and choose from three investment options, each tied to job creation or capital deployment in Singapore.

Investment options under the program


Applicants can select one of the following investment paths:

1. Option A: Invest SGD 10 million (including paid-up capital) into a new or existing business in Singapore and employ at least 30 staff, half of whom must be Singaporean citizens. For existing businesses, 10 employees must be new hires.

2. Option B: Invest SGD 25 million in a fund approved by the Singapore Economic Development Board, which invests in Singapore-based companies.

3. Option C: Set up a single family office in Singapore with assets under management of at least SGD 200 million. At least SGD 50 million must be deployed in approved investments such as listed companies, qualifying debt securities, licensed funds, or private equity in local businesses. The office must employ at least five additional professionals over five years, including three Singaporean citizens.

Application process and eligibility

The program is open to established business owners, next-generation business leaders, founders of fast-growing tech firms, and family office principals with significant entrepreneurial experience.

Applicants must submit an e-application, a personal profile, and a detailed investment plan, along with hard copy supporting documents. After an interview and assessment, eligible applicants receive an Approval in Principle, valid for six months. The investment must be completed within this period. Permanent residence status must be formalized within a year of final approval.

Spouses and children under 21 can be included in the application. Male dependents must serve national service. Parents and unmarried children over 21 are not eligible but can apply for a five-year long-term visit pass.

Benefits of Singaporean Permanent Residence

Permanent residents in Singapore enjoy several advantages, including political and economic stability, low crime rates, and a high standard of living. The country offers world-class education, healthcare, and public transport systems, alongside advanced business infrastructure and a favorable tax regime.

With a population of around six million and English and Mandarin as main languages, Singapore maintains a multicultural society. Its territorial taxation system means individuals are generally taxed only on income sourced within the country, a factor that appeals to foreign investors.

Re-entry permits and citizenship path

Once permanent residence is formalized, investors receive a five-year re-entry permit (REP), allowing them to travel without losing residency status. REP renewal requirements vary by investment option and may include meeting business targets or maintaining physical presence in Singapore.

After two years as a permanent resident, individuals may apply for Singaporean citizenship, which is granted on a single-citizenship basis. The Singapore passport is currently ranked the world’s strongest, offering visa-free or visa-on-arrival access to 193 destinations, including Europe’s Schengen Area, the USA, and Canada.

However, Singapore’s ban on dual citizenship means applicants must be prepared to renounce their existing nationality if they seek citizenship.