Singapore PR Guide: Essential FAQs for Work Permit Holders
10 Top burning questions from our Work Permit Holders:
1. How do I apply for a Singapore PR?
Work Permits will require an upgrade to an S-Pass / E-Pass in order to be eligible to apply for a Singapore PR.
2. What is the criteria to apply for an S-Pass?
An S-Pass application will require a minimum qualifying salary of $3000 a month and acceptable qualification of a diploma or a degree. The application will have to be done by your employer.
Note: The Minimum Qualifying Salary has been increased to $3150 in 2023 September and at least $3300 (to be finalised by MoM) in September 2025.
3. How can I check my eligibility for an S-Pass?
You can use this Work Pass Sats Tool provided by the Ministry of Manpower to check if you are eligible: Work Pass Sats Tool
4. With the increased qualifying salary in September, will it be harder for me to get an S-Pass?
Certainly, it might, however, by delaying your upgrade will only make it more difficult for you to obtain an S-Pass in the future. As we’ve seen above, the minimum qualifying salary will only increase as the years go by. We would recommend, it is best for you to start up-skilling yourself the soonest to increase your chances of getting an upgrade.
5. How to increase my chances of getting an S-Pass
The approval of your S-Pass is solely based on the Singapore Immigration Checkpoint Authorities based on a few pointers below:
- Years of relevant experience & skill-sets in a certain industry
- Demand and Shortage in Industry
- Income and education level
However, there are a few things you can do to improve your chances which includes upskilling yourself with a relevant diploma in your industry. This can also help with boosting your chances for promotion in your company.
6. What if I am not eligible for an S-Pass, what can I do to meet the eligibility?
If you are keen to upgrade your Work Permit, you will first require to up-skill yourself. This includes furthering your education to either a diploma or a bachelor. Having a specialised skill set will help you enhance your knowledge and competency at work. Doing so may also increase your chances of salary increment, promotion and more! If you are looking for a recognised institution, we highly recommend joining our 1-year specialised diploma course.
To find out more, book an appointment with us at our SG HQ.
7. Why should I focus on upgrading and getting a PR?
Singapore is looking for more skilled foreign workers who can truly contribute to the economy. With the volatile climate, it is uncertain if the future foreign policies will be further tightened. If you remain as a Work Permit, you might face challenges like retrenchment hence it is best to upskill now to remain relevant to the industry. Additionally, getting a PR in Singapore has many more benefits than you think. To find out more, check out our blog here.
8. Will I be able to juggle with a Diploma course and work?
Most certainly we believe that you can do so! Most of our work permits who have joined us are coping well with the arrangement and found the courses to be useful and applicable to their jobs. If you would like to find out more, book a free appointment at our SG HQ.
9. What if I got rejected due to the lack of S-Pass Quota?
First you can get your employer to request for a clarification from the Ministry of Manpower. If it shows your rejection was incorrect, you can try appealing your case.
10. Will I lose my citizenship after applying for a PR in Singapore?
Work Permits will require an upgrade to an S-Pass / E-Pass in order to be eligible to apply for a Singapore PR.
A Permanent Resident (PR) in Singapore does not mean you are a Singaporean. You will still be a Citizen of your country and will not be required to cancel the IC of your original country.
Note: You’ll only have to give up your citizenship after you’ve converted to a Singapore Citizen.
Conclusion
With all the above said, good luck! If you are keen to have a 1-1 Free consultation with us on how we can help you to upgrade your S-Pass and potentially obtain a PR. Book an appointment with us right away.
Disclaimer: All information is true as of time of publish in Jan 2024, information and data may change beyond this date. For most updated information, always refer to relevant site before making decisions. Kenneth & Co disclaims any liability for any harm caused by using the information provided.
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