🕷️ Crawler Inspector

URL Lookup

Direct Parameter Lookup

Raw Queries and Responses

1. Shard Calculation

Query:

Response:

Calculated Shard: 113 (from laksa181)

2. Crawled Status Check

Query:

curl -X POST \
  'http://laksa113.int.ahrefs:8124/' \
  -H 'Content-Type: text/plain' \
  -H 'X-ClickHouse-Database: crawler3' \
  -H 'Authorization: Basic YXBpOg==' \
  -d 'SELECT getAhrefsURLFromUnparsed(src_unparsed) AS found_url, ifNull(toUnixTimestamp(download_stamp), 0) AS crawl_time, ifNull(toUnixTimestamp(props_url_first_seen), 0) AS first_indexed_time, download_http_code AS http_code, src_unparsed AS src_unparsed, src_root_hash AS src_root_hash, history_drop_reason AS history_drop_reason, meta_title AS meta_title, meta_descriptions AS meta_descriptions, attrs_boilerpipe_text AS attrs_boilerpipe_text, attrs_markdown AS attrs_markdown, attrs_readable_markdown AS attrs_readable_markdown, meta_canonical AS meta_canonical FROM crawler3.page_info_local FINAL PREWHERE (src_root_hash, src_unparsed) IN ((getAhrefsRootHashFromUnparsed(getAhrefsUnparsedNoserviceFromURL(\'https://www.pacificprime.sg/blog/singapore-citizenship-permanent-residence-difference/\')), getAhrefsUnparsedNoserviceFromURL(\'https://www.pacificprime.sg/blog/singapore-citizenship-permanent-residence-difference/\'))) FORMAT JSONEachRow'

Response:

{"found_url":"https:\/\/www.pacificprime.sg\/blog\/singapore-citizenship-permanent-residence-difference\/","crawl_time":1776208888,"first_indexed_time":1607427838,"http_code":200,"src_unparsed":"sg,pacificprime!www,\/blog\/singapore-citizenship-permanent-residence-difference\/ s443","src_root_hash":"8438439124204169313","history_drop_reason":null,"meta_title":"Singapore Citizenship vs. Permanent Residence.","meta_descriptions":["See a comparison of major benefits between Singapore citizenship and Permanent Residence. We'll also go through the application processes."],"attrs_boilerpipe_text":"Are you attracted to the vibrant cosmopolitan of Singapore? Perhaps you are drawn in by Singapore’s high quality of living and its well-deserved status as one of the best cities in Asia. It’s high time you consider staying. You have two options available: permanent residence and Singapore citizenship. What’s the difference and how do you know which one to go for? In this \nPacific Prime Singapore\n article, you’ll see a comparison of benefits between Singapore citizenship and Permanent Residence. In addition, we’ll go through the application process for both so you’ll know what to expect.\nBenefits of Singapore Citizenship\nFrom\nhealthcare\nand education to employment rewards, Singaporean Citizens (SC) enjoy a wealth of benefits. Here, you’ll find a quick rundown of several major benefits available to a SC.\n1. Travel freedom\nSingapore passport holders enjoy visa-free or visa on arrival access to a stunning 192 countries and territories. In fact, Singapore is ranked 2nd in travel freedom on the \nHenley Visa Restrictions Index\n in 2022.\n2. Employment rewards\nMost companies in Singapore prefer to hire citizens or PRs over foreigners since there is a lot less paperwork required. Interested in getting a work permit in 2022? Check out our article on the \ndifference between work passes in Singapore\n and how to get yours.\n3. Housing\nSingaporean citizens aged 21 or above are eligible to buy and rent apartments from the \nHousing & Development Board\n (HDB). These include subsidized 2 to 5-room flats, and even executive flats and studio apartments developed by the HDB. You can also apply for loans at a concessionary interest rate from HDB to fund housing. On top of that, first-time buyers of these flats can enjoy housing subsidies such as the CPF Housing Grant for up to SGD $40,000. SCs can further enjoy subsidies when their home and neighborhood undergo various upgrading programs, and they can rent out their entire HDB flat.\n4. Education\nPrimary school kids do not have to pay school fees, while secondary schoolers pay only SGD $5 and junior college students pay only SGD $6 per month in school fees, provided they are SCs.\nAll SC students are entitled to an \nEdusave\n account through which they’ll receive a yearly contribution from the government. This scheme also awards students who excel in academics and non-academic activities.\n5. Healthcare\nWith the Medifund, the Singaporean government helps finance medical expenses for citizens in need. In addition, the Primary Care Partnership Scheme (PCPS) offers affordable healthcare for those without access to one of Singapore’s 18 polyclinics.\n6. Leave benefits\nAll mothers may enjoy 16 weeks of \npaid maternity leave\n if their child is a SC. Also, parents who have worked for their employer for at least 3 months are entitled to 6 days of paid parental leave per year until the child turns 7.\n7. Parenthood Incentives\nAs long as your child is a SC, he\/she is eligible for the Baby Bonus Scheme. You can receive up to SGD $8,000 in cash gifts for your first and second child, and up to SGD $10,000 for the third and fourth child. To make infant care and childcare affordable, the government also provides subsidies of SGD $300 to $600. Also available are tax incentives for parenthood, which include Working Mother’s Child Relief (WMCR), and more.\nDisadvantages of Singapore Citizenship\nDespite the plethora of benefits, there are a few drawbacks to becoming a SC. First, Singapore does not allow dual citizenship. In other words, to be a citizen here means you must renounce all other citizenships you possess. Moreover, all male Singapore citizens are required to serve in the National Service for two years at the age of 18. Withdrawing all of your CPF savings in a lump sum would also require you to renounce your citizenship status.\nDifferences between Permanent Residence and Singapore Citizenship\nPermanent Residents enjoy only a fraction of the benefits SCs are entitled to. Both PRs and foreigners pay a higher percentage of school and polyclinic consultation fees compared to SCs.\nYour paid maternity leave duration is also subjected to the employment contract if your child or you aren’t a SC. Most importantly, you cannot vote as a PR. In terms of healthcare benefits, PRs are not eligible to access the Medifund for sick and needy Singaporeans. The PCPS is also open to citizens only.\nCrucially, if a PR leaves Singapore without a valid Re-Entry Permit (REP), or if a PR’s REP expires when he\/she is outside Singapore, that person’s PR status automatically and, with rare exceptions, irrevocably ends. Singapore’s \nImmigration and Checkpoints Authority\n (ICA) typically renews REPs for 5 years, subject to PRs having some actual residence, and economic or other relevant activity, in Singapore.\nSimilarities between Permanent Residence and Singaporean Citizenship\nSimilarly, second-generation male PRs must serve in the National Service upon reaching 18. PRs can also purchase and rent flats from the HDB. However, when the government is upgrading these flats, PRs have to pay in full for the features they have opted for. SCs only need to pay a fraction of the costs. To buy any private residential property, PRs must seek first approval from the Ministry of Law. Both PRs and SCs are eligible for the Central Provident Fund (CPF), a compulsory social security savings plan.\nApplying for Singapore Citizenship\nIn this section, you can see whether you’re eligible for citizenship in Singapore, and how to apply for one.\nEligibility\nYou will be eligible for a Singapore citizenship as long as you meet any one of the criteria below:\nYou are 21 years old and above, and have been a Singapore PR for at least 2 years. You can also apply together with your spouse and any unmarried children aged below 21 either born to you or adopted by you.\nYou have been a PR for at least 2 years and have been married to a Singapore Citizen for at least 2 years.\nYou are an unmarried child aged below 21 born within the context of a legal marriage to, or have been legally adopted by, a Singapore citizen.\nYou are a PR studying in Singapore. Also, you have been residing in Singapore for more than 3 years. On top of that, you’ve passed at least 1 national exam (i.e. PSLE, GCE ‘N’\/‘O’\/‘A’ levels), or are in the Integrated Programme (IP).\nYou are a PR and an aged parent of a Singapore Citizen.\nHow to apply\nTo apply for Singapore citizenship, you need to prepare two things: application fees and required documents. Should your application be successful, you’ll also need to pay additional fees for your birth certificate and\/or Singapore ID card. This entire process is done online through the Immigration & Checkpoint Authority (ICA) website.\nHere’s a quick rundown of the list of requirements:\nRequired documents\nPrepare certified true copies of any original documents. Remember to submit official translations if your documents are in languages other than English. The ICA accepts several types of translations. They must be provided by the embassy or notary public of the country that issued the document, or by the embassy or notary public in Singapore. Alternatively, you can get your documents privately translated as long as they are attested by the embassy or notarized.\nApplication fees\nBelow are the costs of the Singapore citizenship application at a glance. Check out the \nICA website\n for more details.\nNote: the Singapore Identity Card fee is applicable to new citizens aged 15 and above.\nTypes of Applicants\nApplication Fees\nCertificate\/Identity Card Fees (if application is successful)\nAdult Permanent Resident (PRs) and Children of PRs\nSGD $100\nSGD $70 for your Singapore Citizenship Certificate\nSGD $10 for a Singapore ID*\nChildren born overseas to Singapore citizen parents\nSGD $18\nSGD $10 for a Singapore ID*\nAll other children born overseas or locally\nSGD $100\nSGD $70 for your Singapore Citizenship Certificate\nSGD $10 for a Singapore ID*\nApplication process\nIn a nutshell, here is what you can expect to go through in the application process.\nSubmit application and all of your required documents through\ne-Service\n. You’ll need a SingPass account to submit your application. Don’t have an account? You can apply via your sponsor’s SingPass account.\nCitizenship applications usually take 6-12 months to process. However, the application for kids born overseas to Singapore Citizens only takes 2 months to process. You can check your application status update on\nMyICA\n.\nIf your application is successful, you’ll receive an Approval in Principle letter with your appointment date and time to register for your Singapore citizenship.\nApplying for Permanent Residence\nIn this section, you’ll see whether you are eligible for permanent residence in Singapore and the application procedures.\nEligibility\nYou may be eligible to apply for permanent residence if you fit into one of the following categories:\nSpouse of a Singapore citizen (SC) or a Singapore permanent resident (PR)\nUnmarried child aged below 21 years old, born within the context of a legal marriage to, or have been legally adopted by, a SC or PR\nAged parent of a SC\nEmployment Pass or S Pass Holder\nStudent studying in Singapore\nForeign investor in Singapore\nHow to apply\nTo apply, you’ll need to prepare your required documents and application fees. Keep in mind that the\nlist of required documents\ndiffers for each type of applicant. Please refer to the ICA website for more details.\nApplication process\nApply online with a valid SingPass account. You may use your sponsor’s SingPass or your own if you are an Employment Pass or S Pass holder. Are you a foreign investor in Singapore? In that case, apply for permanent residence under the\nGlobal Investor Programme\n. If you are a student, access the e-Service using your Foreign Identification Number (FIN) and the issuance date of your immigration pass. The processing time is generally 4 to 6 months.\nApplication fees\nNext, pay a non-refundable application fee of SGD $100. If successful, you’ll need to pay SGD $20 for an Entry Permit, SGD $50 for a 5-year Re-Entry Permit, SGD $50 for an Identity Card, and SGD $30 for an Entry Visa (if you require one).\nSecure international health insurance\nWhether you’ve decided to apply for permanent residence or Singapore citizenship, you should protect yourself with\ninternational health insurance\n. No matter where you are in the world, you would want access to the best treatments and medical facilities. With\nexpat health insurance\n, you can travel worry-free.\nBacked by more than 20 years of experience in the broker industry, our team of insurance advisors are happy to help you\ncompare plans in Singapore\nand select the ones that suit your needs best.\nContact us today\nfor a free quote and impartial advice!\nAuthor\nRecent Posts\nSerena Fung is a Senior Content Creator at Pacific Prime, a global insurance brokerage and employee specialist serving over 1.5 million clients in 15 offices across the world. With 2+ years of experience writing about the subject, she aims to demystify the world of insurance for readers with the latest updates, guides and articles on the blog.\nSerena earned her Bachelor’s Degree in Psychology from the University of British Columbia, Canada. As such, she is an avid advocate of mental health and is fascinated by all things psychology (especially if it’s cognitive psychology!).\nHer previous work experience includes teaching toddlers to read, writing for a travel\/wellness online magazine, and then a business news blog. These combined experiences give her the skills and insights she needs to explain complex ideas in a succinct way. Being the daughter of an immigrant and a traveler herself, she is passionate about educating expats and digital nomads on travel and international health insurance.","attrs_markdown":"[![Pacific Prime Singapore's Blog](https:\/\/www.pacificprime.sg\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/08\/PP-CXA_logo-WP.png)](https:\/\/www.pacificprime.sg\/blog\/)\n\nToggle navigation\n\n- [Visit our Site](https:\/\/www.pacificprime.sg\/?campSource=PPSG-Blog)\n- [Insurance](https:\/\/www.pacificprime.sg\/blog\/category\/insurance\/)\n  - [Expat Insurance](https:\/\/www.pacificprime.sg\/blog\/category\/insurance\/expat-insurance\/)\n  - [Group Insurance](https:\/\/www.pacificprime.sg\/blog\/category\/insurance\/group-insurance\/)\n  - [Family Insurance](https:\/\/www.pacificprime.sg\/blog\/category\/insurance\/family-insurance\/)\n- [Health](https:\/\/www.pacificprime.sg\/blog\/category\/health\/)\n- [News](https:\/\/www.pacificprime.sg\/blog\/category\/news\/)\n- [Employee Benefits](https:\/\/www.pacificprime.sg\/blog\/category\/employee-benefits\/)\n- [Get Quote](https:\/\/www.pacificprime.sg\/compare-quotes\/step-one\/?campSource=PPSG-Blog)\n\n![singapore citizen permanent resident difference pacific prime](https:\/\/www.pacificprime.sg\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/12\/singapore-citizen-permanent-resident-difference-pacific-prime-1138x493.jpg)\n\n![](https:\/\/secure.gravatar.com\/avatar\/aba64e292f17bc9409b0bce235e56bff?s=30&d=mm&r=g) [Serena Fung](https:\/\/www.pacificprime.sg\/blog\/author\/serena\/) in [Expat Insurance](https:\/\/www.pacificprime.sg\/blog\/category\/insurance\/expat-insurance\/)\n\n[July 25, 2023](https:\/\/www.pacificprime.sg\/blog\/2023\/07\/25\/)\n\n[0 Comments](https:\/\/www.pacificprime.sg\/blog\/singapore-citizenship-permanent-residence-difference\/#respond)\n\n# Singapore Citizenship vs. Permanent Residence: What’s the difference and how do you apply? (Updated 2023)\nAre you attracted to the vibrant cosmopolitan of Singapore? Perhaps you are drawn in by Singapore’s high quality of living and its well-deserved status as one of the best cities in Asia. It’s high time you consider staying. You have two options available: permanent residence and Singapore citizenship. What’s the difference and how do you know which one to go for? In this [Pacific Prime Singapore](https:\/\/www.pacificprime.sg\/) article, you’ll see a comparison of benefits between Singapore citizenship and Permanent Residence. In addition, we’ll go through the application process for both so you’ll know what to expect.\n\n[![get a quote](https:\/\/www.pacificprime.sg\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/09\/Banner-v3.jpg)](https:\/\/www.pacificprime.sg\/compare-quotes\/step-one\/?campSource=PPSG-Blog&utm_source=blog&utm_medium=content_banner&utm_campaign=banner&utm_content=single)\n\n## Benefits of Singapore Citizenship\nFrom [healthcare](https:\/\/www.pacificprime.sg\/blog\/singapores-healthcare-system\/) and education to employment rewards, Singaporean Citizens (SC) enjoy a wealth of benefits. Here, you’ll find a quick rundown of several major benefits available to a SC.\n\n### 1\\. Travel freedom\nSingapore passport holders enjoy visa-free or visa on arrival access to a stunning 192 countries and territories. In fact, Singapore is ranked 2nd in travel freedom on the [Henley Visa Restrictions Index](https:\/\/www.henleyglobal.com\/henley-passport-index\/) in 2022.\n\n### 2\\. Employment rewards\nMost companies in Singapore prefer to hire citizens or PRs over foreigners since there is a lot less paperwork required. Interested in getting a work permit in 2022? Check out our article on the [difference between work passes in Singapore](https:\/\/www.pacificprime.sg\/blog\/guide-singapore-work-permits-s-pass-and-employment-pass\/) and how to get yours.\n\n### 3\\. Housing\nSingaporean citizens aged 21 or above are eligible to buy and rent apartments from the [Housing & Development Board](https:\/\/www.hdb.gov.sg\/cs\/infoweb\/homepage) (HDB). These include subsidized 2 to 5-room flats, and even executive flats and studio apartments developed by the HDB. You can also apply for loans at a concessionary interest rate from HDB to fund housing. On top of that, first-time buyers of these flats can enjoy housing subsidies such as the CPF Housing Grant for up to SGD \\$40,000. SCs can further enjoy subsidies when their home and neighborhood undergo various upgrading programs, and they can rent out their entire HDB flat.\n\n### 4\\. Education\nPrimary school kids do not have to pay school fees, while secondary schoolers pay only SGD \\$5 and junior college students pay only SGD \\$6 per month in school fees, provided they are SCs.\n\nAll SC students are entitled to an [Edusave](https:\/\/beta.moe.gov.sg\/fees-assistance-awards-scholarships\/edusave-contributions\/) account through which they’ll receive a yearly contribution from the government. This scheme also awards students who excel in academics and non-academic activities.\n\n### 5\\. Healthcare\nWith the Medifund, the Singaporean government helps finance medical expenses for citizens in need. In addition, the Primary Care Partnership Scheme (PCPS) offers affordable healthcare for those without access to one of Singapore’s 18 polyclinics.\n\n### 6\\. Leave benefits\nAll mothers may enjoy 16 weeks of [paid maternity leave](https:\/\/www.pacificprime.sg\/blog\/how-long-is-parental-leave-in-singapore\/) if their child is a SC. Also, parents who have worked for their employer for at least 3 months are entitled to 6 days of paid parental leave per year until the child turns 7.\n\n### 7\\. Parenthood Incentives\nAs long as your child is a SC, he\/she is eligible for the Baby Bonus Scheme. You can receive up to SGD \\$8,000 in cash gifts for your first and second child, and up to SGD \\$10,000 for the third and fourth child. To make infant care and childcare affordable, the government also provides subsidies of SGD \\$300 to \\$600. Also available are tax incentives for parenthood, which include Working Mother’s Child Relief (WMCR), and more.\n\n## Disadvantages of Singapore Citizenship\nDespite the plethora of benefits, there are a few drawbacks to becoming a SC. First, Singapore does not allow dual citizenship. In other words, to be a citizen here means you must renounce all other citizenships you possess. Moreover, all male Singapore citizens are required to serve in the National Service for two years at the age of 18. Withdrawing all of your CPF savings in a lump sum would also require you to renounce your citizenship status.\n\n## Differences between Permanent Residence and Singapore Citizenship\nPermanent Residents enjoy only a fraction of the benefits SCs are entitled to. Both PRs and foreigners pay a higher percentage of school and polyclinic consultation fees compared to SCs.\n\nYour paid maternity leave duration is also subjected to the employment contract if your child or you aren’t a SC. Most importantly, you cannot vote as a PR. In terms of healthcare benefits, PRs are not eligible to access the Medifund for sick and needy Singaporeans. The PCPS is also open to citizens only.\n\nCrucially, if a PR leaves Singapore without a valid Re-Entry Permit (REP), or if a PR’s REP expires when he\/she is outside Singapore, that person’s PR status automatically and, with rare exceptions, irrevocably ends. Singapore’s [Immigration and Checkpoints Authority](https:\/\/www.ica.gov.sg\/) (ICA) typically renews REPs for 5 years, subject to PRs having some actual residence, and economic or other relevant activity, in Singapore.\n\n## Similarities between Permanent Residence and Singaporean Citizenship\nSimilarly, second-generation male PRs must serve in the National Service upon reaching 18. PRs can also purchase and rent flats from the HDB. However, when the government is upgrading these flats, PRs have to pay in full for the features they have opted for. SCs only need to pay a fraction of the costs. To buy any private residential property, PRs must seek first approval from the Ministry of Law. Both PRs and SCs are eligible for the Central Provident Fund (CPF), a compulsory social security savings plan.\n\n## Applying for Singapore Citizenship\nIn this section, you can see whether you’re eligible for citizenship in Singapore, and how to apply for one.\n\n#### Eligibility\nYou will be eligible for a Singapore citizenship as long as you meet any one of the criteria below:\n\n- You are 21 years old and above, and have been a Singapore PR for at least 2 years. You can also apply together with your spouse and any unmarried children aged below 21 either born to you or adopted by you.\n- You have been a PR for at least 2 years and have been married to a Singapore Citizen for at least 2 years.\n- You are an unmarried child aged below 21 born within the context of a legal marriage to, or have been legally adopted by, a Singapore citizen.\n- You are a PR studying in Singapore. Also, you have been residing in Singapore for more than 3 years. On top of that, you’ve passed at least 1 national exam (i.e. PSLE, GCE ‘N’\/‘O’\/‘A’ levels), or are in the Integrated Programme (IP).\n- You are a PR and an aged parent of a Singapore Citizen.\n#### How to apply\nTo apply for Singapore citizenship, you need to prepare two things: application fees and required documents. Should your application be successful, you’ll also need to pay additional fees for your birth certificate and\/or Singapore ID card. This entire process is done online through the Immigration & Checkpoint Authority (ICA) website.\n\nHere’s a quick rundown of the list of requirements:\n\n### Required documents\nPrepare certified true copies of any original documents. Remember to submit official translations if your documents are in languages other than English. The ICA accepts several types of translations. They must be provided by the embassy or notary public of the country that issued the document, or by the embassy or notary public in Singapore. Alternatively, you can get your documents privately translated as long as they are attested by the embassy or notarized.\n\n### Application fees\nBelow are the costs of the Singapore citizenship application at a glance. Check out the [ICA website](https:\/\/www.ica.gov.sg\/PR\/citizenship\/PR_citizenship_becomeasc) for more details.\n\n*Note: the Singapore Identity Card fee is applicable to new citizens aged 15 and above.*\n\n|   |   |   |\n|---|---|---|\n| Types of Applicants | Application Fees | Certificate\/Identity Card Fees (if application is successful) |\n| Adult Permanent Resident (PRs) and Children of PRs | SGD \\$100 | SGD \\$70 for your Singapore Citizenship Certificate  SGD \\$10 for a Singapore ID\\* |\n| Children born overseas to Singapore citizen parents | SGD \\$18 | SGD \\$10 for a Singapore ID\\* |\n| All other children born overseas or locally | SGD \\$100 | SGD \\$70 for your Singapore Citizenship Certificate  SGD \\$10 for a Singapore ID\\* |\n### Application process\nIn a nutshell, here is what you can expect to go through in the application process.\n\n1. Submit application and all of your required documents through [e-Service](https:\/\/eservices.ica.gov.sg\/esvclandingpage\/esc). You’ll need a SingPass account to submit your application. Don’t have an account? You can apply via your sponsor’s SingPass account.\n2. Citizenship applications usually take 6-12 months to process. However, the application for kids born overseas to Singapore Citizens only takes 2 months to process. You can check your application status update on [MyICA](https:\/\/saml.singpass.gov.sg\/spservice\/welcome).\n3. If your application is successful, you’ll receive an Approval in Principle letter with your appointment date and time to register for your Singapore citizenship.\n## Applying for Permanent Residence\nIn this section, you’ll see whether you are eligible for permanent residence in Singapore and the application procedures.\n\n#### Eligibility\nYou may be eligible to apply for permanent residence if you fit into one of the following categories:\n\n- Spouse of a Singapore citizen (SC) or a Singapore permanent resident (PR)\n- Unmarried child aged below 21 years old, born within the context of a legal marriage to, or have been legally adopted by, a SC or PR\n- Aged parent of a SC\n- Employment Pass or S Pass Holder\n- Student studying in Singapore\n- Foreign investor in Singapore\n#### How to apply\nTo apply, you’ll need to prepare your required documents and application fees. Keep in mind that the [list of required documents](https:\/\/www.ica.gov.sg\/apply\/PR\/apply_PR_who) differs for each type of applicant. Please refer to the ICA website for more details.\n\n### Application process\nApply online with a valid SingPass account. You may use your sponsor’s SingPass or your own if you are an Employment Pass or S Pass holder. Are you a foreign investor in Singapore? In that case, apply for permanent residence under the [Global Investor Programme](https:\/\/www.edb.gov.sg\/en\/how-we-help\/global-investor-programme.html). If you are a student, access the e-Service using your Foreign Identification Number (FIN) and the issuance date of your immigration pass. The processing time is generally 4 to 6 months.\n\n### Application fees\nNext, pay a non-refundable application fee of SGD \\$100. If successful, you’ll need to pay SGD \\$20 for an Entry Permit, SGD \\$50 for a 5-year Re-Entry Permit, SGD \\$50 for an Identity Card, and SGD \\$30 for an Entry Visa (if you require one).\n\n## Secure international health insurance\nWhether you’ve decided to apply for permanent residence or Singapore citizenship, you should protect yourself with [international health insurance](https:\/\/www.pacificprime.sg\/international-health-insurance-pacific-prime-insurance-brokers\/). No matter where you are in the world, you would want access to the best treatments and medical facilities. With [expat health insurance](https:\/\/www.pacificprime.sg\/expat-health-insurance\/), you can travel worry-free.\n\nBacked by more than 20 years of experience in the broker industry, our team of insurance advisors are happy to help you [compare plans in Singapore](https:\/\/www.pacificprime.sg\/plans\/) and select the ones that suit your needs best. [Contact us today](https:\/\/www.pacificprime.sg\/contact-us\/) for a free quote and impartial advice\\!\n\n[![Get an Insurance quote banner](https:\/\/www.pacificprime.sg\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/06\/PPSG_Gen_02.jpg)](https:\/\/www.pacificprime.sg\/compare-quotes\/step-one\/?campSource=PPSG-Blog&utm_source=blog&utm_medium=cta_banner&utm_campaign=banner&utm_content=quote)\n\n### Related posts:\n[Hospital Room Types in Singapore (Updated 2025)](https:\/\/www.pacificprime.sg\/blog\/hospital-room-types-in-singapore\/)\n\n[Your Guide to Singapore Work Permits, S Pass, and Employment Pass (Updated 2025)](https:\/\/www.pacificprime.sg\/blog\/guide-singapore-work-permits-s-pass-and-employment-pass\/)\n\n[Medical Examinations for Your Singapore Visa Application: A Step-by-Step Guide](https:\/\/www.pacificprime.sg\/blog\/medical-examinations-for-singapore-visa-application-guide\/)\n\n- [Author](https:\/\/www.pacificprime.sg\/blog\/singapore-citizenship-permanent-residence-difference\/#abh_about)\n- [Recent Posts](https:\/\/www.pacificprime.sg\/blog\/singapore-citizenship-permanent-residence-difference\/#abh_posts)\n\n[![Serena Fung](https:\/\/secure.gravatar.com\/avatar\/aba64e292f17bc9409b0bce235e56bff?s=250&d=mm&r=g)](https:\/\/www.pacificprime.sg\/blog\/author\/serena\/ \"Serena Fung\")\n\n[Serena Fung](https:\/\/www.pacificprime.sg\/blog\/author\/serena\/)\n\nSenior Content Creator at [Pacific Prime Singapore](https:\/\/www.pacificprime.sg\/)\n\nSerena Fung is a Senior Content Creator at Pacific Prime, a global insurance brokerage and employee specialist serving over 1.5 million clients in 15 offices across the world. With 2+ years of experience writing about the subject, she aims to demystify the world of insurance for readers with the latest updates, guides and articles on the blog.  \n  \nSerena earned her Bachelor’s Degree in Psychology from the University of British Columbia, Canada. As such, she is an avid advocate of mental health and is fascinated by all things psychology (especially if it’s cognitive psychology!).  \n  \nHer previous work experience includes teaching toddlers to read, writing for a travel\/wellness online magazine, and then a business news blog. These combined experiences give her the skills and insights she needs to explain complex ideas in a succinct way. Being the daughter of an immigrant and a traveler herself, she is passionate about educating expats and digital nomads on travel and international health insurance.\n\n[![Serena Fung](https:\/\/secure.gravatar.com\/avatar\/aba64e292f17bc9409b0bce235e56bff?s=250&d=mm&r=g)](https:\/\/www.pacificprime.sg\/blog\/author\/serena\/ \"Serena Fung\")\n\nLatest posts by Serena Fung ([see all](https:\/\/www.pacificprime.sg\/blog\/author\/serena\/))\n\n- [Public vs. Private: What to Expect from a Singapore Hospital Ward](https:\/\/www.pacificprime.sg\/blog\/public-vs-private-hospital-ward-in-singapore\/) - September 23, 2025\n- [Hospital Room Types in Singapore (Updated 2025)](https:\/\/www.pacificprime.sg\/blog\/hospital-room-types-in-singapore\/) - September 18, 2025\n- [Your Guide to Singapore Work Permits, S Pass, and Employment Pass (Updated 2025)](https:\/\/www.pacificprime.sg\/blog\/guide-singapore-work-permits-s-pass-and-employment-pass\/) - September 11, 2025\n\n###### Written By\n***\n![](https:\/\/secure.gravatar.com\/avatar\/aba64e292f17bc9409b0bce235e56bff?s=90&d=mm&r=g)\n\n##### [Serena Fung](https:\/\/www.pacificprime.sg\/blog\/author\/serena\/)\nSerena Fung is a Senior Content Creator at Pacific Prime, a global insurance brokerage and employee specialist serving over 1.5 million clients in 15 offices across the world. With 2+ years of experience writing about the subject, she aims to demystify the world of insurance for readers with the latest updates, guides and articles on the blog.\n\nSerena earned her Bachelor’s Degree in Psychology from the University of British Columbia, Canada. As such, she is an avid advocate of mental health and is fascinated by all things psychology (especially if it’s cognitive psychology!).\n\nHer previous work experience includes teaching toddlers to read, writing for a travel\/wellness online magazine, and then a business news blog. These combined experiences give her the skills and insights she needs to explain complex ideas in a succinct way. Being the daughter of an immigrant and a traveler herself, she is passionate about educating expats and digital nomads on travel and international health insurance.\n\n###### Tags\n***\n[Ban\\_sin](https:\/\/www.pacificprime.sg\/blog\/tag\/ban_sin\/)[CTA\\_gen](https:\/\/www.pacificprime.sg\/blog\/tag\/cta_gen\/)[expat health insurance](https:\/\/www.pacificprime.sg\/blog\/tag\/expat-health-insurance\/)[international health insurance](https:\/\/www.pacificprime.sg\/blog\/tag\/international-health-insurance\/)[permanent residence](https:\/\/www.pacificprime.sg\/blog\/tag\/permanent-residence\/)[permanent resident](https:\/\/www.pacificprime.sg\/blog\/tag\/permanent-resident\/)[Singapore citizenship application](https:\/\/www.pacificprime.sg\/blog\/tag\/singapore-citizenship-application\/)[Singaporean citizen](https:\/\/www.pacificprime.sg\/blog\/tag\/singaporean-citizen\/)\n\n###### Comments\n***\n### Comments for this post are closed.\n×\n\nWe'll notify you   \n when our team replies\\!\n\n###### About Pacific Prime Singapore\n***\n[Pacific Prime Insurance Brokers Singapore Pte. Ltd.](https:\/\/www.pacificprime.sg\/?campSource=PPSG-Blog) is one of Singapore's top registered insurance brokers. Primarily focused on health insurance in Singapore, we also offer a wide spectrum of insurance solutions from automobile through to wellness.\n\nAll of our innovative insurance solutions are backed by industry-leading technology and expert, award-winning service from our team of [advisors.](https:\/\/www.pacificprime.sg\/about-us\/advisors\/?campSource=PPSG-Blog)\n\n[Contact Us Today](https:\/\/www.pacificprime.sg\/contact-us\/?campSource=PPSG-Blog&utm_campaign=Blog)\n\n[![](https:\/\/www.pacificprime.sg\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/01\/190109-Blog-Banner-A-v1.jpg)](https:\/\/www.pacificprime.sg\/compare-quotes\/step-one\/?campSource=PPSG-Blog)\n\n###### Find an Article\n***\n\n###### Recent Posts\n***\n- [Public vs. Private: What to Expect from a Singapore Hospital Ward](https:\/\/www.pacificprime.sg\/blog\/public-vs-private-hospital-ward-in-singapore\/)\n- [Hospital Room Types in Singapore (Updated 2025)](https:\/\/www.pacificprime.sg\/blog\/hospital-room-types-in-singapore\/)\n- [Your Guide to Singapore Work Permits, S Pass, and Employment Pass (Updated 2025)](https:\/\/www.pacificprime.sg\/blog\/guide-singapore-work-permits-s-pass-and-employment-pass\/)\n- [Frequently Asked Questions About Top-up Insurance for Expats in Singapore](https:\/\/www.pacificprime.sg\/blog\/expat-top-up-insurance-faq-singapore\/)\n- [The Importance of Top-Up Insurance for Family Health in Singapore](https:\/\/www.pacificprime.sg\/blog\/importance-of-top-up-insurance-family-singapore\/)\n- [Medical Examinations for Your Singapore Visa Application: A Step-by-Step Guide](https:\/\/www.pacificprime.sg\/blog\/medical-examinations-for-singapore-visa-application-guide\/)\n- [Setting Up Your Finances in Singapore: Banking, Taxes, and More for Expats](https:\/\/www.pacificprime.sg\/blog\/setting-up-your-finances-in-singapore-banking-taxes-expats\/)\n\n###### Top 100 Insurance Blogs Winner\n***\n[![Top 1oo insurance blog winner](https:\/\/blog-cdn.feedspot.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/01\/insurance-100-transparent_216px.png)](https:\/\/blog.feedspot.com\/insurance_blogs\/ \"Insurance Blogs\")\n\n###### Articles\n***\n- [Insurance](https:\/\/www.pacificprime.sg\/blog\/category\/insurance\/)\n  - [Expat Insurance](https:\/\/www.pacificprime.sg\/blog\/category\/insurance\/expat-insurance\/)\n  - [Group Insurance](https:\/\/www.pacificprime.sg\/blog\/category\/insurance\/group-insurance\/)\n  - [Family Insurance](https:\/\/www.pacificprime.sg\/blog\/category\/insurance\/family-insurance\/)\n- [Health](https:\/\/www.pacificprime.sg\/blog\/category\/health\/)\n- [Employee Benefits](https:\/\/www.pacificprime.sg\/blog\/category\/employee-benefits\/)\n- [News](https:\/\/www.pacificprime.sg\/blog\/category\/news\/)\n\n###### About Pacific Prime Singapore\n***\n![](https:\/\/www.pacificprime.sg\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/02\/ppsg-logo-2.png)   \n Pacific Prime Singapore offers a wide variety of insurance plans that can be tailored to meet the needs of residents and expats alike.  \n   \n Pacific Prime Insurance Brokers Singapore Pte. Ltd. is regulated and licensed in Singapore Copyright © 2006-2026 Pacific Prime, All rights reserved.\n\n✖\n\n✖\n\n![](https:\/\/www.pacificprime.sg\/blog\/wp-content\/themes\/readable-child\/exit-popup\/images\/pp-logo.png)\n\n# Hold on\\!\nDon't forget to get a FREE insurance quote and consultation while you're still here. Simply leave your details and our advisors will be in touch soon.\n\n100% Free. 100% Worth It.\n\n[![](https:\/\/www.pacificprime.sg\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/01\/190109-Blog-Banner-A-v1.jpg)](https:\/\/www.pacificprime.sg\/compare-quotes\/step-one\/?campSource=PPSG-Blog)","attrs_readable_markdown":"Are you attracted to the vibrant cosmopolitan of Singapore? Perhaps you are drawn in by Singapore’s high quality of living and its well-deserved status as one of the best cities in Asia. It’s high time you consider staying. You have two options available: permanent residence and Singapore citizenship. What’s the difference and how do you know which one to go for? In this [Pacific Prime Singapore](https:\/\/www.pacificprime.sg\/) article, you’ll see a comparison of benefits between Singapore citizenship and Permanent Residence. In addition, we’ll go through the application process for both so you’ll know what to expect.\n\n[![get a quote](https:\/\/www.pacificprime.sg\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/09\/Banner-v3.jpg)](https:\/\/www.pacificprime.sg\/compare-quotes\/step-one\/?campSource=PPSG-Blog&utm_source=blog&utm_medium=content_banner&utm_campaign=banner&utm_content=single)\n\n## Benefits of Singapore Citizenship\nFrom [healthcare](https:\/\/www.pacificprime.sg\/blog\/singapores-healthcare-system\/) and education to employment rewards, Singaporean Citizens (SC) enjoy a wealth of benefits. Here, you’ll find a quick rundown of several major benefits available to a SC.\n\n### 1\\. Travel freedom\nSingapore passport holders enjoy visa-free or visa on arrival access to a stunning 192 countries and territories. In fact, Singapore is ranked 2nd in travel freedom on the [Henley Visa Restrictions Index](https:\/\/www.henleyglobal.com\/henley-passport-index\/) in 2022.\n\n### 2\\. Employment rewards\nMost companies in Singapore prefer to hire citizens or PRs over foreigners since there is a lot less paperwork required. Interested in getting a work permit in 2022? Check out our article on the [difference between work passes in Singapore](https:\/\/www.pacificprime.sg\/blog\/guide-singapore-work-permits-s-pass-and-employment-pass\/) and how to get yours.\n\n### 3\\. Housing\nSingaporean citizens aged 21 or above are eligible to buy and rent apartments from the [Housing & Development Board](https:\/\/www.hdb.gov.sg\/cs\/infoweb\/homepage) (HDB). These include subsidized 2 to 5-room flats, and even executive flats and studio apartments developed by the HDB. You can also apply for loans at a concessionary interest rate from HDB to fund housing. On top of that, first-time buyers of these flats can enjoy housing subsidies such as the CPF Housing Grant for up to SGD \\$40,000. SCs can further enjoy subsidies when their home and neighborhood undergo various upgrading programs, and they can rent out their entire HDB flat.\n\n### 4\\. Education\nPrimary school kids do not have to pay school fees, while secondary schoolers pay only SGD \\$5 and junior college students pay only SGD \\$6 per month in school fees, provided they are SCs.\n\nAll SC students are entitled to an [Edusave](https:\/\/beta.moe.gov.sg\/fees-assistance-awards-scholarships\/edusave-contributions\/) account through which they’ll receive a yearly contribution from the government. This scheme also awards students who excel in academics and non-academic activities.\n\n### 5\\. Healthcare\nWith the Medifund, the Singaporean government helps finance medical expenses for citizens in need. In addition, the Primary Care Partnership Scheme (PCPS) offers affordable healthcare for those without access to one of Singapore’s 18 polyclinics.\n\n### 6\\. Leave benefits\nAll mothers may enjoy 16 weeks of [paid maternity leave](https:\/\/www.pacificprime.sg\/blog\/how-long-is-parental-leave-in-singapore\/) if their child is a SC. Also, parents who have worked for their employer for at least 3 months are entitled to 6 days of paid parental leave per year until the child turns 7.\n\n### 7\\. Parenthood Incentives\nAs long as your child is a SC, he\/she is eligible for the Baby Bonus Scheme. You can receive up to SGD \\$8,000 in cash gifts for your first and second child, and up to SGD \\$10,000 for the third and fourth child. To make infant care and childcare affordable, the government also provides subsidies of SGD \\$300 to \\$600. Also available are tax incentives for parenthood, which include Working Mother’s Child Relief (WMCR), and more.\n\n## Disadvantages of Singapore Citizenship\nDespite the plethora of benefits, there are a few drawbacks to becoming a SC. First, Singapore does not allow dual citizenship. In other words, to be a citizen here means you must renounce all other citizenships you possess. Moreover, all male Singapore citizens are required to serve in the National Service for two years at the age of 18. Withdrawing all of your CPF savings in a lump sum would also require you to renounce your citizenship status.\n\n## Differences between Permanent Residence and Singapore Citizenship\nPermanent Residents enjoy only a fraction of the benefits SCs are entitled to. Both PRs and foreigners pay a higher percentage of school and polyclinic consultation fees compared to SCs.\n\nYour paid maternity leave duration is also subjected to the employment contract if your child or you aren’t a SC. Most importantly, you cannot vote as a PR. In terms of healthcare benefits, PRs are not eligible to access the Medifund for sick and needy Singaporeans. The PCPS is also open to citizens only.\n\nCrucially, if a PR leaves Singapore without a valid Re-Entry Permit (REP), or if a PR’s REP expires when he\/she is outside Singapore, that person’s PR status automatically and, with rare exceptions, irrevocably ends. Singapore’s [Immigration and Checkpoints Authority](https:\/\/www.ica.gov.sg\/) (ICA) typically renews REPs for 5 years, subject to PRs having some actual residence, and economic or other relevant activity, in Singapore.\n\n## Similarities between Permanent Residence and Singaporean Citizenship\nSimilarly, second-generation male PRs must serve in the National Service upon reaching 18. PRs can also purchase and rent flats from the HDB. However, when the government is upgrading these flats, PRs have to pay in full for the features they have opted for. SCs only need to pay a fraction of the costs. To buy any private residential property, PRs must seek first approval from the Ministry of Law. Both PRs and SCs are eligible for the Central Provident Fund (CPF), a compulsory social security savings plan.\n\n## Applying for Singapore Citizenship\nIn this section, you can see whether you’re eligible for citizenship in Singapore, and how to apply for one.\n\n#### Eligibility\nYou will be eligible for a Singapore citizenship as long as you meet any one of the criteria below:\n\n- You are 21 years old and above, and have been a Singapore PR for at least 2 years. You can also apply together with your spouse and any unmarried children aged below 21 either born to you or adopted by you.\n- You have been a PR for at least 2 years and have been married to a Singapore Citizen for at least 2 years.\n- You are an unmarried child aged below 21 born within the context of a legal marriage to, or have been legally adopted by, a Singapore citizen.\n- You are a PR studying in Singapore. Also, you have been residing in Singapore for more than 3 years. On top of that, you’ve passed at least 1 national exam (i.e. PSLE, GCE ‘N’\/‘O’\/‘A’ levels), or are in the Integrated Programme (IP).\n- You are a PR and an aged parent of a Singapore Citizen.\n#### How to apply\nTo apply for Singapore citizenship, you need to prepare two things: application fees and required documents. Should your application be successful, you’ll also need to pay additional fees for your birth certificate and\/or Singapore ID card. This entire process is done online through the Immigration & Checkpoint Authority (ICA) website.\n\nHere’s a quick rundown of the list of requirements:\n\n### Required documents\nPrepare certified true copies of any original documents. Remember to submit official translations if your documents are in languages other than English. The ICA accepts several types of translations. They must be provided by the embassy or notary public of the country that issued the document, or by the embassy or notary public in Singapore. Alternatively, you can get your documents privately translated as long as they are attested by the embassy or notarized.\n\n### Application fees\nBelow are the costs of the Singapore citizenship application at a glance. Check out the [ICA website](https:\/\/www.ica.gov.sg\/PR\/citizenship\/PR_citizenship_becomeasc) for more details.\n\n*Note: the Singapore Identity Card fee is applicable to new citizens aged 15 and above.*\n\n|   |   |   |\n|---|---|---|\n| Types of Applicants | Application Fees | Certificate\/Identity Card Fees (if application is successful) |\n| Adult Permanent Resident (PRs) and Children of PRs | SGD \\$100 | SGD \\$70 for your Singapore Citizenship Certificate  SGD \\$10 for a Singapore ID\\* |\n| Children born overseas to Singapore citizen parents | SGD \\$18 | SGD \\$10 for a Singapore ID\\* |\n| All other children born overseas or locally | SGD \\$100 | SGD \\$70 for your Singapore Citizenship Certificate  SGD \\$10 for a Singapore ID\\* |\n### Application process\nIn a nutshell, here is what you can expect to go through in the application process.\n\n1. Submit application and all of your required documents through [e-Service](https:\/\/eservices.ica.gov.sg\/esvclandingpage\/esc). You’ll need a SingPass account to submit your application. Don’t have an account? You can apply via your sponsor’s SingPass account.\n2. Citizenship applications usually take 6-12 months to process. However, the application for kids born overseas to Singapore Citizens only takes 2 months to process. You can check your application status update on [MyICA](https:\/\/saml.singpass.gov.sg\/spservice\/welcome).\n3. If your application is successful, you’ll receive an Approval in Principle letter with your appointment date and time to register for your Singapore citizenship.\n## Applying for Permanent Residence\nIn this section, you’ll see whether you are eligible for permanent residence in Singapore and the application procedures.\n\n#### Eligibility\nYou may be eligible to apply for permanent residence if you fit into one of the following categories:\n\n- Spouse of a Singapore citizen (SC) or a Singapore permanent resident (PR)\n- Unmarried child aged below 21 years old, born within the context of a legal marriage to, or have been legally adopted by, a SC or PR\n- Aged parent of a SC\n- Employment Pass or S Pass Holder\n- Student studying in Singapore\n- Foreign investor in Singapore\n#### How to apply\nTo apply, you’ll need to prepare your required documents and application fees. Keep in mind that the [list of required documents](https:\/\/www.ica.gov.sg\/apply\/PR\/apply_PR_who) differs for each type of applicant. Please refer to the ICA website for more details.\n\n### Application process\nApply online with a valid SingPass account. You may use your sponsor’s SingPass or your own if you are an Employment Pass or S Pass holder. Are you a foreign investor in Singapore? In that case, apply for permanent residence under the [Global Investor Programme](https:\/\/www.edb.gov.sg\/en\/how-we-help\/global-investor-programme.html). If you are a student, access the e-Service using your Foreign Identification Number (FIN) and the issuance date of your immigration pass. The processing time is generally 4 to 6 months.\n\n### Application fees\nNext, pay a non-refundable application fee of SGD \\$100. If successful, you’ll need to pay SGD \\$20 for an Entry Permit, SGD \\$50 for a 5-year Re-Entry Permit, SGD \\$50 for an Identity Card, and SGD \\$30 for an Entry Visa (if you require one).\n\n## Secure international health insurance\nWhether you’ve decided to apply for permanent residence or Singapore citizenship, you should protect yourself with [international health insurance](https:\/\/www.pacificprime.sg\/international-health-insurance-pacific-prime-insurance-brokers\/). No matter where you are in the world, you would want access to the best treatments and medical facilities. With [expat health insurance](https:\/\/www.pacificprime.sg\/expat-health-insurance\/), you can travel worry-free.\n\nBacked by more than 20 years of experience in the broker industry, our team of insurance advisors are happy to help you [compare plans in Singapore](https:\/\/www.pacificprime.sg\/plans\/) and select the ones that suit your needs best. [Contact us today](https:\/\/www.pacificprime.sg\/contact-us\/) for a free quote and impartial advice\\!\n\n[![Get an Insurance quote banner](https:\/\/www.pacificprime.sg\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/06\/PPSG_Gen_02.jpg)](https:\/\/www.pacificprime.sg\/compare-quotes\/step-one\/?campSource=PPSG-Blog&utm_source=blog&utm_medium=cta_banner&utm_campaign=banner&utm_content=quote)\n\n- [Author](https:\/\/www.pacificprime.sg\/blog\/singapore-citizenship-permanent-residence-difference\/#abh_about)\n- [Recent Posts](https:\/\/www.pacificprime.sg\/blog\/singapore-citizenship-permanent-residence-difference\/#abh_posts)\n\n[![Serena Fung](https:\/\/secure.gravatar.com\/avatar\/aba64e292f17bc9409b0bce235e56bff?s=250&d=mm&r=g)](https:\/\/www.pacificprime.sg\/blog\/author\/serena\/ \"Serena Fung\")\n\nSerena Fung is a Senior Content Creator at Pacific Prime, a global insurance brokerage and employee specialist serving over 1.5 million clients in 15 offices across the world. With 2+ years of experience writing about the subject, she aims to demystify the world of insurance for readers with the latest updates, guides and articles on the blog.\n\nSerena earned her Bachelor’s Degree in Psychology from the University of British Columbia, Canada. As such, she is an avid advocate of mental health and is fascinated by all things psychology (especially if it’s cognitive psychology!).\n\nHer previous work experience includes teaching toddlers to read, writing for a travel\/wellness online magazine, and then a business news blog. These combined experiences give her the skills and insights she needs to explain complex ideas in a succinct way. Being the daughter of an immigrant and a traveler herself, she is passionate about educating expats and digital nomads on travel and international health insurance.\n\n[![Serena Fung](https:\/\/secure.gravatar.com\/avatar\/aba64e292f17bc9409b0bce235e56bff?s=250&d=mm&r=g)](https:\/\/www.pacificprime.sg\/blog\/author\/serena\/ \"Serena Fung\")","meta_canonical":null}

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Boilerpipe Text	Are you attracted to the vibrant cosmopolitan of Singapore? Perhaps you are drawn in by Singapore’s high quality of living and its well-deserved status as one of the best cities in Asia. It’s high time you consider staying. You have two options available: permanent residence and Singapore citizenship. What’s the difference and how do you know which one to go for? In this Pacific Prime Singapore article, you’ll see a comparison of benefits between Singapore citizenship and Permanent Residence. In addition, we’ll go through the application process for both so you’ll know what to expect. Benefits of Singapore Citizenship From healthcare and education to employment rewards, Singaporean Citizens (SC) enjoy a wealth of benefits. Here, you’ll find a quick rundown of several major benefits available to a SC. 1. Travel freedom Singapore passport holders enjoy visa-free or visa on arrival access to a stunning 192 countries and territories. In fact, Singapore is ranked 2nd in travel freedom on the Henley Visa Restrictions Index in 2022. 2. Employment rewards Most companies in Singapore prefer to hire citizens or PRs over foreigners since there is a lot less paperwork required. Interested in getting a work permit in 2022? Check out our article on the difference between work passes in Singapore and how to get yours. 3. Housing Singaporean citizens aged 21 or above are eligible to buy and rent apartments from the Housing & Development Board (HDB). These include subsidized 2 to 5-room flats, and even executive flats and studio apartments developed by the HDB. You can also apply for loans at a concessionary interest rate from HDB to fund housing. On top of that, first-time buyers of these flats can enjoy housing subsidies such as the CPF Housing Grant for up to SGD $40,000. SCs can further enjoy subsidies when their home and neighborhood undergo various upgrading programs, and they can rent out their entire HDB flat. 4. Education Primary school kids do not have to pay school fees, while secondary schoolers pay only SGD $5 and junior college students pay only SGD $6 per month in school fees, provided they are SCs. All SC students are entitled to an Edusave account through which they’ll receive a yearly contribution from the government. This scheme also awards students who excel in academics and non-academic activities. 5. Healthcare With the Medifund, the Singaporean government helps finance medical expenses for citizens in need. In addition, the Primary Care Partnership Scheme (PCPS) offers affordable healthcare for those without access to one of Singapore’s 18 polyclinics. 6. Leave benefits All mothers may enjoy 16 weeks of paid maternity leave if their child is a SC. Also, parents who have worked for their employer for at least 3 months are entitled to 6 days of paid parental leave per year until the child turns 7. 7. Parenthood Incentives As long as your child is a SC, he/she is eligible for the Baby Bonus Scheme. You can receive up to SGD $8,000 in cash gifts for your first and second child, and up to SGD $10,000 for the third and fourth child. To make infant care and childcare affordable, the government also provides subsidies of SGD $300 to $600. Also available are tax incentives for parenthood, which include Working Mother’s Child Relief (WMCR), and more. Disadvantages of Singapore Citizenship Despite the plethora of benefits, there are a few drawbacks to becoming a SC. First, Singapore does not allow dual citizenship. In other words, to be a citizen here means you must renounce all other citizenships you possess. Moreover, all male Singapore citizens are required to serve in the National Service for two years at the age of 18. Withdrawing all of your CPF savings in a lump sum would also require you to renounce your citizenship status. Differences between Permanent Residence and Singapore Citizenship Permanent Residents enjoy only a fraction of the benefits SCs are entitled to. Both PRs and foreigners pay a higher percentage of school and polyclinic consultation fees compared to SCs. Your paid maternity leave duration is also subjected to the employment contract if your child or you aren’t a SC. Most importantly, you cannot vote as a PR. In terms of healthcare benefits, PRs are not eligible to access the Medifund for sick and needy Singaporeans. The PCPS is also open to citizens only. Crucially, if a PR leaves Singapore without a valid Re-Entry Permit (REP), or if a PR’s REP expires when he/she is outside Singapore, that person’s PR status automatically and, with rare exceptions, irrevocably ends. Singapore’s Immigration and Checkpoints Authority (ICA) typically renews REPs for 5 years, subject to PRs having some actual residence, and economic or other relevant activity, in Singapore. Similarities between Permanent Residence and Singaporean Citizenship Similarly, second-generation male PRs must serve in the National Service upon reaching 18. PRs can also purchase and rent flats from the HDB. However, when the government is upgrading these flats, PRs have to pay in full for the features they have opted for. SCs only need to pay a fraction of the costs. To buy any private residential property, PRs must seek first approval from the Ministry of Law. Both PRs and SCs are eligible for the Central Provident Fund (CPF), a compulsory social security savings plan. Applying for Singapore Citizenship In this section, you can see whether you’re eligible for citizenship in Singapore, and how to apply for one. Eligibility You will be eligible for a Singapore citizenship as long as you meet any one of the criteria below: You are 21 years old and above, and have been a Singapore PR for at least 2 years. You can also apply together with your spouse and any unmarried children aged below 21 either born to you or adopted by you. You have been a PR for at least 2 years and have been married to a Singapore Citizen for at least 2 years. You are an unmarried child aged below 21 born within the context of a legal marriage to, or have been legally adopted by, a Singapore citizen. You are a PR studying in Singapore. Also, you have been residing in Singapore for more than 3 years. On top of that, you’ve passed at least 1 national exam (i.e. PSLE, GCE ‘N’/‘O’/‘A’ levels), or are in the Integrated Programme (IP). You are a PR and an aged parent of a Singapore Citizen. How to apply To apply for Singapore citizenship, you need to prepare two things: application fees and required documents. Should your application be successful, you’ll also need to pay additional fees for your birth certificate and/or Singapore ID card. This entire process is done online through the Immigration & Checkpoint Authority (ICA) website. Here’s a quick rundown of the list of requirements: Required documents Prepare certified true copies of any original documents. Remember to submit official translations if your documents are in languages other than English. The ICA accepts several types of translations. They must be provided by the embassy or notary public of the country that issued the document, or by the embassy or notary public in Singapore. Alternatively, you can get your documents privately translated as long as they are attested by the embassy or notarized. Application fees Below are the costs of the Singapore citizenship application at a glance. Check out the ICA website for more details. Note: the Singapore Identity Card fee is applicable to new citizens aged 15 and above. Types of Applicants Application Fees Certificate/Identity Card Fees (if application is successful) Adult Permanent Resident (PRs) and Children of PRs SGD $100 SGD $70 for your Singapore Citizenship Certificate SGD $10 for a Singapore ID* Children born overseas to Singapore citizen parents SGD $18 SGD $10 for a Singapore ID* All other children born overseas or locally SGD $100 SGD $70 for your Singapore Citizenship Certificate SGD $10 for a Singapore ID* Application process In a nutshell, here is what you can expect to go through in the application process. Submit application and all of your required documents through e-Service . You’ll need a SingPass account to submit your application. Don’t have an account? You can apply via your sponsor’s SingPass account. Citizenship applications usually take 6-12 months to process. However, the application for kids born overseas to Singapore Citizens only takes 2 months to process. You can check your application status update on MyICA . If your application is successful, you’ll receive an Approval in Principle letter with your appointment date and time to register for your Singapore citizenship. Applying for Permanent Residence In this section, you’ll see whether you are eligible for permanent residence in Singapore and the application procedures. Eligibility You may be eligible to apply for permanent residence if you fit into one of the following categories: Spouse of a Singapore citizen (SC) or a Singapore permanent resident (PR) Unmarried child aged below 21 years old, born within the context of a legal marriage to, or have been legally adopted by, a SC or PR Aged parent of a SC Employment Pass or S Pass Holder Student studying in Singapore Foreign investor in Singapore How to apply To apply, you’ll need to prepare your required documents and application fees. Keep in mind that the list of required documents differs for each type of applicant. Please refer to the ICA website for more details. Application process Apply online with a valid SingPass account. You may use your sponsor’s SingPass or your own if you are an Employment Pass or S Pass holder. Are you a foreign investor in Singapore? In that case, apply for permanent residence under the Global Investor Programme . If you are a student, access the e-Service using your Foreign Identification Number (FIN) and the issuance date of your immigration pass. The processing time is generally 4 to 6 months. Application fees Next, pay a non-refundable application fee of SGD $100. If successful, you’ll need to pay SGD $20 for an Entry Permit, SGD $50 for a 5-year Re-Entry Permit, SGD $50 for an Identity Card, and SGD $30 for an Entry Visa (if you require one). Secure international health insurance Whether you’ve decided to apply for permanent residence or Singapore citizenship, you should protect yourself with international health insurance . No matter where you are in the world, you would want access to the best treatments and medical facilities. With expat health insurance , you can travel worry-free. Backed by more than 20 years of experience in the broker industry, our team of insurance advisors are happy to help you compare plans in Singapore and select the ones that suit your needs best. Contact us today for a free quote and impartial advice! Author Recent Posts Serena Fung is a Senior Content Creator at Pacific Prime, a global insurance brokerage and employee specialist serving over 1.5 million clients in 15 offices across the world. With 2+ years of experience writing about the subject, she aims to demystify the world of insurance for readers with the latest updates, guides and articles on the blog. Serena earned her Bachelor’s Degree in Psychology from the University of British Columbia, Canada. As such, she is an avid advocate of mental health and is fascinated by all things psychology (especially if it’s cognitive psychology!). Her previous work experience includes teaching toddlers to read, writing for a travel/wellness online magazine, and then a business news blog. These combined experiences give her the skills and insights she needs to explain complex ideas in a succinct way. Being the daughter of an immigrant and a traveler herself, she is passionate about educating expats and digital nomads on travel and international health insurance.
Markdown	[![Pacific Prime Singapore's Blog](https://www.pacificprime.sg/blog/wp-content/uploads/2023/08/PP-CXA_logo-WP.png)](https://www.pacificprime.sg/blog/) Toggle navigation - [Visit our Site](https://www.pacificprime.sg/?campSource=PPSG-Blog) - [Insurance](https://www.pacificprime.sg/blog/category/insurance/) - [Expat Insurance](https://www.pacificprime.sg/blog/category/insurance/expat-insurance/) - [Group Insurance](https://www.pacificprime.sg/blog/category/insurance/group-insurance/) - [Family Insurance](https://www.pacificprime.sg/blog/category/insurance/family-insurance/) - [Health](https://www.pacificprime.sg/blog/category/health/) - [News](https://www.pacificprime.sg/blog/category/news/) - [Employee Benefits](https://www.pacificprime.sg/blog/category/employee-benefits/) - [Get Quote](https://www.pacificprime.sg/compare-quotes/step-one/?campSource=PPSG-Blog) ![singapore citizen permanent resident difference pacific prime](https://www.pacificprime.sg/blog/wp-content/uploads/2020/12/singapore-citizen-permanent-resident-difference-pacific-prime-1138x493.jpg) ![](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/aba64e292f17bc9409b0bce235e56bff?s=30&d=mm&r=g) [Serena Fung](https://www.pacificprime.sg/blog/author/serena/) in [Expat Insurance](https://www.pacificprime.sg/blog/category/insurance/expat-insurance/) [July 25, 2023](https://www.pacificprime.sg/blog/2023/07/25/) [0 Comments](https://www.pacificprime.sg/blog/singapore-citizenship-permanent-residence-difference/#respond) # Singapore Citizenship vs. Permanent Residence: What’s the difference and how do you apply? (Updated 2023) Are you attracted to the vibrant cosmopolitan of Singapore? Perhaps you are drawn in by Singapore’s high quality of living and its well-deserved status as one of the best cities in Asia. It’s high time you consider staying. You have two options available: permanent residence and Singapore citizenship. What’s the difference and how do you know which one to go for? In this [Pacific Prime Singapore](https://www.pacificprime.sg/) article, you’ll see a comparison of benefits between Singapore citizenship and Permanent Residence. In addition, we’ll go through the application process for both so you’ll know what to expect. [![get a quote](https://www.pacificprime.sg/blog/wp-content/uploads/2022/09/Banner-v3.jpg)](https://www.pacificprime.sg/compare-quotes/step-one/?campSource=PPSG-Blog&utm_source=blog&utm_medium=content_banner&utm_campaign=banner&utm_content=single) ## Benefits of Singapore Citizenship From [healthcare](https://www.pacificprime.sg/blog/singapores-healthcare-system/) and education to employment rewards, Singaporean Citizens (SC) enjoy a wealth of benefits. Here, you’ll find a quick rundown of several major benefits available to a SC. ### 1\. Travel freedom Singapore passport holders enjoy visa-free or visa on arrival access to a stunning 192 countries and territories. In fact, Singapore is ranked 2nd in travel freedom on the [Henley Visa Restrictions Index](https://www.henleyglobal.com/henley-passport-index/) in 2022. ### 2\. Employment rewards Most companies in Singapore prefer to hire citizens or PRs over foreigners since there is a lot less paperwork required. Interested in getting a work permit in 2022? Check out our article on the [difference between work passes in Singapore](https://www.pacificprime.sg/blog/guide-singapore-work-permits-s-pass-and-employment-pass/) and how to get yours. ### 3\. Housing Singaporean citizens aged 21 or above are eligible to buy and rent apartments from the [Housing & Development Board](https://www.hdb.gov.sg/cs/infoweb/homepage) (HDB). These include subsidized 2 to 5-room flats, and even executive flats and studio apartments developed by the HDB. You can also apply for loans at a concessionary interest rate from HDB to fund housing. On top of that, first-time buyers of these flats can enjoy housing subsidies such as the CPF Housing Grant for up to SGD \$40,000. SCs can further enjoy subsidies when their home and neighborhood undergo various upgrading programs, and they can rent out their entire HDB flat. ### 4\. Education Primary school kids do not have to pay school fees, while secondary schoolers pay only SGD \$5 and junior college students pay only SGD \$6 per month in school fees, provided they are SCs. All SC students are entitled to an [Edusave](https://beta.moe.gov.sg/fees-assistance-awards-scholarships/edusave-contributions/) account through which they’ll receive a yearly contribution from the government. This scheme also awards students who excel in academics and non-academic activities. ### 5\. Healthcare With the Medifund, the Singaporean government helps finance medical expenses for citizens in need. In addition, the Primary Care Partnership Scheme (PCPS) offers affordable healthcare for those without access to one of Singapore’s 18 polyclinics. ### 6\. Leave benefits All mothers may enjoy 16 weeks of [paid maternity leave](https://www.pacificprime.sg/blog/how-long-is-parental-leave-in-singapore/) if their child is a SC. Also, parents who have worked for their employer for at least 3 months are entitled to 6 days of paid parental leave per year until the child turns 7. ### 7\. Parenthood Incentives As long as your child is a SC, he/she is eligible for the Baby Bonus Scheme. You can receive up to SGD \$8,000 in cash gifts for your first and second child, and up to SGD \$10,000 for the third and fourth child. To make infant care and childcare affordable, the government also provides subsidies of SGD \$300 to \$600. Also available are tax incentives for parenthood, which include Working Mother’s Child Relief (WMCR), and more. ## Disadvantages of Singapore Citizenship Despite the plethora of benefits, there are a few drawbacks to becoming a SC. First, Singapore does not allow dual citizenship. In other words, to be a citizen here means you must renounce all other citizenships you possess. Moreover, all male Singapore citizens are required to serve in the National Service for two years at the age of 18. Withdrawing all of your CPF savings in a lump sum would also require you to renounce your citizenship status. ## Differences between Permanent Residence and Singapore Citizenship Permanent Residents enjoy only a fraction of the benefits SCs are entitled to. Both PRs and foreigners pay a higher percentage of school and polyclinic consultation fees compared to SCs. Your paid maternity leave duration is also subjected to the employment contract if your child or you aren’t a SC. Most importantly, you cannot vote as a PR. In terms of healthcare benefits, PRs are not eligible to access the Medifund for sick and needy Singaporeans. The PCPS is also open to citizens only. Crucially, if a PR leaves Singapore without a valid Re-Entry Permit (REP), or if a PR’s REP expires when he/she is outside Singapore, that person’s PR status automatically and, with rare exceptions, irrevocably ends. Singapore’s [Immigration and Checkpoints Authority](https://www.ica.gov.sg/) (ICA) typically renews REPs for 5 years, subject to PRs having some actual residence, and economic or other relevant activity, in Singapore. ## Similarities between Permanent Residence and Singaporean Citizenship Similarly, second-generation male PRs must serve in the National Service upon reaching 18. PRs can also purchase and rent flats from the HDB. However, when the government is upgrading these flats, PRs have to pay in full for the features they have opted for. SCs only need to pay a fraction of the costs. To buy any private residential property, PRs must seek first approval from the Ministry of Law. Both PRs and SCs are eligible for the Central Provident Fund (CPF), a compulsory social security savings plan. ## Applying for Singapore Citizenship In this section, you can see whether you’re eligible for citizenship in Singapore, and how to apply for one. #### Eligibility You will be eligible for a Singapore citizenship as long as you meet any one of the criteria below: - You are 21 years old and above, and have been a Singapore PR for at least 2 years. You can also apply together with your spouse and any unmarried children aged below 21 either born to you or adopted by you. - You have been a PR for at least 2 years and have been married to a Singapore Citizen for at least 2 years. - You are an unmarried child aged below 21 born within the context of a legal marriage to, or have been legally adopted by, a Singapore citizen. - You are a PR studying in Singapore. Also, you have been residing in Singapore for more than 3 years. On top of that, you’ve passed at least 1 national exam (i.e. PSLE, GCE ‘N’/‘O’/‘A’ levels), or are in the Integrated Programme (IP). - You are a PR and an aged parent of a Singapore Citizen. #### How to apply To apply for Singapore citizenship, you need to prepare two things: application fees and required documents. Should your application be successful, you’ll also need to pay additional fees for your birth certificate and/or Singapore ID card. This entire process is done online through the Immigration & Checkpoint Authority (ICA) website. Here’s a quick rundown of the list of requirements: ### Required documents Prepare certified true copies of any original documents. Remember to submit official translations if your documents are in languages other than English. The ICA accepts several types of translations. They must be provided by the embassy or notary public of the country that issued the document, or by the embassy or notary public in Singapore. Alternatively, you can get your documents privately translated as long as they are attested by the embassy or notarized. ### Application fees Below are the costs of the Singapore citizenship application at a glance. Check out the [ICA website](https://www.ica.gov.sg/PR/citizenship/PR_citizenship_becomeasc) for more details. Note: the Singapore Identity Card fee is applicable to new citizens aged 15 and above. \| \| \| \| \|---\|---\|---\| \| Types of Applicants \| Application Fees \| Certificate/Identity Card Fees (if application is successful) \| \| Adult Permanent Resident (PRs) and Children of PRs \| SGD \$100 \| SGD \$70 for your Singapore Citizenship Certificate SGD \$10 for a Singapore ID\* \| \| Children born overseas to Singapore citizen parents \| SGD \$18 \| SGD \$10 for a Singapore ID\* \| \| All other children born overseas or locally \| SGD \$100 \| SGD \$70 for your Singapore Citizenship Certificate SGD \$10 for a Singapore ID\* \| ### Application process In a nutshell, here is what you can expect to go through in the application process. 1. Submit application and all of your required documents through [e-Service](https://eservices.ica.gov.sg/esvclandingpage/esc). You’ll need a SingPass account to submit your application. Don’t have an account? You can apply via your sponsor’s SingPass account. 2. Citizenship applications usually take 6-12 months to process. However, the application for kids born overseas to Singapore Citizens only takes 2 months to process. You can check your application status update on [MyICA](https://saml.singpass.gov.sg/spservice/welcome). 3. If your application is successful, you’ll receive an Approval in Principle letter with your appointment date and time to register for your Singapore citizenship. ## Applying for Permanent Residence In this section, you’ll see whether you are eligible for permanent residence in Singapore and the application procedures. #### Eligibility You may be eligible to apply for permanent residence if you fit into one of the following categories: - Spouse of a Singapore citizen (SC) or a Singapore permanent resident (PR) - Unmarried child aged below 21 years old, born within the context of a legal marriage to, or have been legally adopted by, a SC or PR - Aged parent of a SC - Employment Pass or S Pass Holder - Student studying in Singapore - Foreign investor in Singapore #### How to apply To apply, you’ll need to prepare your required documents and application fees. Keep in mind that the [list of required documents](https://www.ica.gov.sg/apply/PR/apply_PR_who) differs for each type of applicant. Please refer to the ICA website for more details. ### Application process Apply online with a valid SingPass account. You may use your sponsor’s SingPass or your own if you are an Employment Pass or S Pass holder. Are you a foreign investor in Singapore? In that case, apply for permanent residence under the [Global Investor Programme](https://www.edb.gov.sg/en/how-we-help/global-investor-programme.html). If you are a student, access the e-Service using your Foreign Identification Number (FIN) and the issuance date of your immigration pass. The processing time is generally 4 to 6 months. ### Application fees Next, pay a non-refundable application fee of SGD \$100. If successful, you’ll need to pay SGD \$20 for an Entry Permit, SGD \$50 for a 5-year Re-Entry Permit, SGD \$50 for an Identity Card, and SGD \$30 for an Entry Visa (if you require one). ## Secure international health insurance Whether you’ve decided to apply for permanent residence or Singapore citizenship, you should protect yourself with [international health insurance](https://www.pacificprime.sg/international-health-insurance-pacific-prime-insurance-brokers/). No matter where you are in the world, you would want access to the best treatments and medical facilities. With [expat health insurance](https://www.pacificprime.sg/expat-health-insurance/), you can travel worry-free. Backed by more than 20 years of experience in the broker industry, our team of insurance advisors are happy to help you [compare plans in Singapore](https://www.pacificprime.sg/plans/) and select the ones that suit your needs best. [Contact us today](https://www.pacificprime.sg/contact-us/) for a free quote and impartial advice\! [![Get an Insurance quote banner](https://www.pacificprime.sg/blog/wp-content/uploads/2019/06/PPSG_Gen_02.jpg)](https://www.pacificprime.sg/compare-quotes/step-one/?campSource=PPSG-Blog&utm_source=blog&utm_medium=cta_banner&utm_campaign=banner&utm_content=quote) ### Related posts: [Hospital Room Types in Singapore (Updated 2025)](https://www.pacificprime.sg/blog/hospital-room-types-in-singapore/) [Your Guide to Singapore Work Permits, S Pass, and Employment Pass (Updated 2025)](https://www.pacificprime.sg/blog/guide-singapore-work-permits-s-pass-and-employment-pass/) [Medical Examinations for Your Singapore Visa Application: A Step-by-Step Guide](https://www.pacificprime.sg/blog/medical-examinations-for-singapore-visa-application-guide/) - [Author](https://www.pacificprime.sg/blog/singapore-citizenship-permanent-residence-difference/#abh_about) - [Recent Posts](https://www.pacificprime.sg/blog/singapore-citizenship-permanent-residence-difference/#abh_posts) [![Serena Fung](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/aba64e292f17bc9409b0bce235e56bff?s=250&d=mm&r=g)](https://www.pacificprime.sg/blog/author/serena/ "Serena Fung") [Serena Fung](https://www.pacificprime.sg/blog/author/serena/) Senior Content Creator at [Pacific Prime Singapore](https://www.pacificprime.sg/) Serena Fung is a Senior Content Creator at Pacific Prime, a global insurance brokerage and employee specialist serving over 1.5 million clients in 15 offices across the world. With 2+ years of experience writing about the subject, she aims to demystify the world of insurance for readers with the latest updates, guides and articles on the blog. Serena earned her Bachelor’s Degree in Psychology from the University of British Columbia, Canada. As such, she is an avid advocate of mental health and is fascinated by all things psychology (especially if it’s cognitive psychology!). Her previous work experience includes teaching toddlers to read, writing for a travel/wellness online magazine, and then a business news blog. These combined experiences give her the skills and insights she needs to explain complex ideas in a succinct way. Being the daughter of an immigrant and a traveler herself, she is passionate about educating expats and digital nomads on travel and international health insurance. [![Serena Fung](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/aba64e292f17bc9409b0bce235e56bff?s=250&d=mm&r=g)](https://www.pacificprime.sg/blog/author/serena/ "Serena Fung") Latest posts by Serena Fung ([see all](https://www.pacificprime.sg/blog/author/serena/)) - [Public vs. Private: What to Expect from a Singapore Hospital Ward](https://www.pacificprime.sg/blog/public-vs-private-hospital-ward-in-singapore/) - September 23, 2025 - [Hospital Room Types in Singapore (Updated 2025)](https://www.pacificprime.sg/blog/hospital-room-types-in-singapore/) - September 18, 2025 - [Your Guide to Singapore Work Permits, S Pass, and Employment Pass (Updated 2025)](https://www.pacificprime.sg/blog/guide-singapore-work-permits-s-pass-and-employment-pass/) - September 11, 2025 ###### Written By * ![](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/aba64e292f17bc9409b0bce235e56bff?s=90&d=mm&r=g) ##### [Serena Fung](https://www.pacificprime.sg/blog/author/serena/) Serena Fung is a Senior Content Creator at Pacific Prime, a global insurance brokerage and employee specialist serving over 1.5 million clients in 15 offices across the world. With 2+ years of experience writing about the subject, she aims to demystify the world of insurance for readers with the latest updates, guides and articles on the blog. Serena earned her Bachelor’s Degree in Psychology from the University of British Columbia, Canada. As such, she is an avid advocate of mental health and is fascinated by all things psychology (especially if it’s cognitive psychology!). Her previous work experience includes teaching toddlers to read, writing for a travel/wellness online magazine, and then a business news blog. These combined experiences give her the skills and insights she needs to explain complex ideas in a succinct way. Being the daughter of an immigrant and a traveler herself, she is passionate about educating expats and digital nomads on travel and international health insurance. ###### Tags * [Ban\_sin](https://www.pacificprime.sg/blog/tag/ban_sin/)[CTA\_gen](https://www.pacificprime.sg/blog/tag/cta_gen/)[expat health insurance](https://www.pacificprime.sg/blog/tag/expat-health-insurance/)[international health insurance](https://www.pacificprime.sg/blog/tag/international-health-insurance/)[permanent residence](https://www.pacificprime.sg/blog/tag/permanent-residence/)[permanent resident](https://www.pacificprime.sg/blog/tag/permanent-resident/)[Singapore citizenship application](https://www.pacificprime.sg/blog/tag/singapore-citizenship-application/)[Singaporean citizen](https://www.pacificprime.sg/blog/tag/singaporean-citizen/) ###### Comments * ### Comments for this post are closed. × We'll notify you when our team replies\! ###### About Pacific Prime Singapore * [Pacific Prime Insurance Brokers Singapore Pte. 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All of our innovative insurance solutions are backed by industry-leading technology and expert, award-winning service from our team of [advisors.](https://www.pacificprime.sg/about-us/advisors/?campSource=PPSG-Blog) [Contact Us Today](https://www.pacificprime.sg/contact-us/?campSource=PPSG-Blog&utm_campaign=Blog) [![](https://www.pacificprime.sg/blog/wp-content/uploads/2019/01/190109-Blog-Banner-A-v1.jpg)](https://www.pacificprime.sg/compare-quotes/step-one/?campSource=PPSG-Blog) ###### Find an Article * ###### Recent Posts * - [Public vs. Private: What to Expect from a Singapore Hospital Ward](https://www.pacificprime.sg/blog/public-vs-private-hospital-ward-in-singapore/) - [Hospital Room Types in Singapore (Updated 2025)](https://www.pacificprime.sg/blog/hospital-room-types-in-singapore/) - [Your Guide to Singapore Work Permits, S Pass, and Employment Pass (Updated 2025)](https://www.pacificprime.sg/blog/guide-singapore-work-permits-s-pass-and-employment-pass/) - [Frequently Asked Questions About Top-up Insurance for Expats in Singapore](https://www.pacificprime.sg/blog/expat-top-up-insurance-faq-singapore/) - [The Importance of Top-Up Insurance for Family Health in Singapore](https://www.pacificprime.sg/blog/importance-of-top-up-insurance-family-singapore/) - [Medical Examinations for Your Singapore Visa Application: A Step-by-Step Guide](https://www.pacificprime.sg/blog/medical-examinations-for-singapore-visa-application-guide/) - [Setting Up Your Finances in Singapore: Banking, Taxes, and More for Expats](https://www.pacificprime.sg/blog/setting-up-your-finances-in-singapore-banking-taxes-expats/) ###### Top 100 Insurance Blogs Winner * [![Top 1oo insurance blog winner](https://blog-cdn.feedspot.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/01/insurance-100-transparent_216px.png)](https://blog.feedspot.com/insurance_blogs/ "Insurance Blogs") ###### Articles * - [Insurance](https://www.pacificprime.sg/blog/category/insurance/) - [Expat Insurance](https://www.pacificprime.sg/blog/category/insurance/expat-insurance/) - [Group Insurance](https://www.pacificprime.sg/blog/category/insurance/group-insurance/) - [Family Insurance](https://www.pacificprime.sg/blog/category/insurance/family-insurance/) - [Health](https://www.pacificprime.sg/blog/category/health/) - [Employee Benefits](https://www.pacificprime.sg/blog/category/employee-benefits/) - [News](https://www.pacificprime.sg/blog/category/news/) ###### About Pacific Prime Singapore *** ![](https://www.pacificprime.sg/blog/wp-content/uploads/2018/02/ppsg-logo-2.png) Pacific Prime Singapore offers a wide variety of insurance plans that can be tailored to meet the needs of residents and expats alike. 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Readable Markdown	Are you attracted to the vibrant cosmopolitan of Singapore? Perhaps you are drawn in by Singapore’s high quality of living and its well-deserved status as one of the best cities in Asia. It’s high time you consider staying. You have two options available: permanent residence and Singapore citizenship. What’s the difference and how do you know which one to go for? In this [Pacific Prime Singapore](https://www.pacificprime.sg/) article, you’ll see a comparison of benefits between Singapore citizenship and Permanent Residence. In addition, we’ll go through the application process for both so you’ll know what to expect. [![get a quote](https://www.pacificprime.sg/blog/wp-content/uploads/2022/09/Banner-v3.jpg)](https://www.pacificprime.sg/compare-quotes/step-one/?campSource=PPSG-Blog&utm_source=blog&utm_medium=content_banner&utm_campaign=banner&utm_content=single) ## Benefits of Singapore Citizenship From [healthcare](https://www.pacificprime.sg/blog/singapores-healthcare-system/) and education to employment rewards, Singaporean Citizens (SC) enjoy a wealth of benefits. Here, you’ll find a quick rundown of several major benefits available to a SC. ### 1\. Travel freedom Singapore passport holders enjoy visa-free or visa on arrival access to a stunning 192 countries and territories. In fact, Singapore is ranked 2nd in travel freedom on the [Henley Visa Restrictions Index](https://www.henleyglobal.com/henley-passport-index/) in 2022. ### 2\. Employment rewards Most companies in Singapore prefer to hire citizens or PRs over foreigners since there is a lot less paperwork required. Interested in getting a work permit in 2022? Check out our article on the [difference between work passes in Singapore](https://www.pacificprime.sg/blog/guide-singapore-work-permits-s-pass-and-employment-pass/) and how to get yours. ### 3\. Housing Singaporean citizens aged 21 or above are eligible to buy and rent apartments from the [Housing & Development Board](https://www.hdb.gov.sg/cs/infoweb/homepage) (HDB). These include subsidized 2 to 5-room flats, and even executive flats and studio apartments developed by the HDB. You can also apply for loans at a concessionary interest rate from HDB to fund housing. On top of that, first-time buyers of these flats can enjoy housing subsidies such as the CPF Housing Grant for up to SGD \$40,000. SCs can further enjoy subsidies when their home and neighborhood undergo various upgrading programs, and they can rent out their entire HDB flat. ### 4\. Education Primary school kids do not have to pay school fees, while secondary schoolers pay only SGD \$5 and junior college students pay only SGD \$6 per month in school fees, provided they are SCs. All SC students are entitled to an [Edusave](https://beta.moe.gov.sg/fees-assistance-awards-scholarships/edusave-contributions/) account through which they’ll receive a yearly contribution from the government. This scheme also awards students who excel in academics and non-academic activities. ### 5\. Healthcare With the Medifund, the Singaporean government helps finance medical expenses for citizens in need. In addition, the Primary Care Partnership Scheme (PCPS) offers affordable healthcare for those without access to one of Singapore’s 18 polyclinics. ### 6\. Leave benefits All mothers may enjoy 16 weeks of [paid maternity leave](https://www.pacificprime.sg/blog/how-long-is-parental-leave-in-singapore/) if their child is a SC. Also, parents who have worked for their employer for at least 3 months are entitled to 6 days of paid parental leave per year until the child turns 7. ### 7\. Parenthood Incentives As long as your child is a SC, he/she is eligible for the Baby Bonus Scheme. You can receive up to SGD \$8,000 in cash gifts for your first and second child, and up to SGD \$10,000 for the third and fourth child. To make infant care and childcare affordable, the government also provides subsidies of SGD \$300 to \$600. Also available are tax incentives for parenthood, which include Working Mother’s Child Relief (WMCR), and more. ## Disadvantages of Singapore Citizenship Despite the plethora of benefits, there are a few drawbacks to becoming a SC. First, Singapore does not allow dual citizenship. In other words, to be a citizen here means you must renounce all other citizenships you possess. Moreover, all male Singapore citizens are required to serve in the National Service for two years at the age of 18. Withdrawing all of your CPF savings in a lump sum would also require you to renounce your citizenship status. ## Differences between Permanent Residence and Singapore Citizenship Permanent Residents enjoy only a fraction of the benefits SCs are entitled to. Both PRs and foreigners pay a higher percentage of school and polyclinic consultation fees compared to SCs. Your paid maternity leave duration is also subjected to the employment contract if your child or you aren’t a SC. Most importantly, you cannot vote as a PR. In terms of healthcare benefits, PRs are not eligible to access the Medifund for sick and needy Singaporeans. The PCPS is also open to citizens only. Crucially, if a PR leaves Singapore without a valid Re-Entry Permit (REP), or if a PR’s REP expires when he/she is outside Singapore, that person’s PR status automatically and, with rare exceptions, irrevocably ends. Singapore’s [Immigration and Checkpoints Authority](https://www.ica.gov.sg/) (ICA) typically renews REPs for 5 years, subject to PRs having some actual residence, and economic or other relevant activity, in Singapore. ## Similarities between Permanent Residence and Singaporean Citizenship Similarly, second-generation male PRs must serve in the National Service upon reaching 18. PRs can also purchase and rent flats from the HDB. However, when the government is upgrading these flats, PRs have to pay in full for the features they have opted for. SCs only need to pay a fraction of the costs. To buy any private residential property, PRs must seek first approval from the Ministry of Law. Both PRs and SCs are eligible for the Central Provident Fund (CPF), a compulsory social security savings plan. ## Applying for Singapore Citizenship In this section, you can see whether you’re eligible for citizenship in Singapore, and how to apply for one. #### Eligibility You will be eligible for a Singapore citizenship as long as you meet any one of the criteria below: - You are 21 years old and above, and have been a Singapore PR for at least 2 years. You can also apply together with your spouse and any unmarried children aged below 21 either born to you or adopted by you. - You have been a PR for at least 2 years and have been married to a Singapore Citizen for at least 2 years. - You are an unmarried child aged below 21 born within the context of a legal marriage to, or have been legally adopted by, a Singapore citizen. - You are a PR studying in Singapore. Also, you have been residing in Singapore for more than 3 years. On top of that, you’ve passed at least 1 national exam (i.e. PSLE, GCE ‘N’/‘O’/‘A’ levels), or are in the Integrated Programme (IP). - You are a PR and an aged parent of a Singapore Citizen. #### How to apply To apply for Singapore citizenship, you need to prepare two things: application fees and required documents. Should your application be successful, you’ll also need to pay additional fees for your birth certificate and/or Singapore ID card. This entire process is done online through the Immigration & Checkpoint Authority (ICA) website. Here’s a quick rundown of the list of requirements: ### Required documents Prepare certified true copies of any original documents. Remember to submit official translations if your documents are in languages other than English. The ICA accepts several types of translations. They must be provided by the embassy or notary public of the country that issued the document, or by the embassy or notary public in Singapore. Alternatively, you can get your documents privately translated as long as they are attested by the embassy or notarized. ### Application fees Below are the costs of the Singapore citizenship application at a glance. Check out the [ICA website](https://www.ica.gov.sg/PR/citizenship/PR_citizenship_becomeasc) for more details. Note: the Singapore Identity Card fee is applicable to new citizens aged 15 and above. \| \| \| \| \|---\|---\|---\| \| Types of Applicants \| Application Fees \| Certificate/Identity Card Fees (if application is successful) \| \| Adult Permanent Resident (PRs) and Children of PRs \| SGD \$100 \| SGD \$70 for your Singapore Citizenship Certificate SGD \$10 for a Singapore ID\* \| \| Children born overseas to Singapore citizen parents \| SGD \$18 \| SGD \$10 for a Singapore ID\* \| \| All other children born overseas or locally \| SGD \$100 \| SGD \$70 for your Singapore Citizenship Certificate SGD \$10 for a Singapore ID\* \| ### Application process In a nutshell, here is what you can expect to go through in the application process. 1. Submit application and all of your required documents through [e-Service](https://eservices.ica.gov.sg/esvclandingpage/esc). You’ll need a SingPass account to submit your application. Don’t have an account? You can apply via your sponsor’s SingPass account. 2. Citizenship applications usually take 6-12 months to process. However, the application for kids born overseas to Singapore Citizens only takes 2 months to process. You can check your application status update on [MyICA](https://saml.singpass.gov.sg/spservice/welcome). 3. If your application is successful, you’ll receive an Approval in Principle letter with your appointment date and time to register for your Singapore citizenship. ## Applying for Permanent Residence In this section, you’ll see whether you are eligible for permanent residence in Singapore and the application procedures. #### Eligibility You may be eligible to apply for permanent residence if you fit into one of the following categories: - Spouse of a Singapore citizen (SC) or a Singapore permanent resident (PR) - Unmarried child aged below 21 years old, born within the context of a legal marriage to, or have been legally adopted by, a SC or PR - Aged parent of a SC - Employment Pass or S Pass Holder - Student studying in Singapore - Foreign investor in Singapore #### How to apply To apply, you’ll need to prepare your required documents and application fees. Keep in mind that the [list of required documents](https://www.ica.gov.sg/apply/PR/apply_PR_who) differs for each type of applicant. Please refer to the ICA website for more details. ### Application process Apply online with a valid SingPass account. You may use your sponsor’s SingPass or your own if you are an Employment Pass or S Pass holder. Are you a foreign investor in Singapore? In that case, apply for permanent residence under the [Global Investor Programme](https://www.edb.gov.sg/en/how-we-help/global-investor-programme.html). If you are a student, access the e-Service using your Foreign Identification Number (FIN) and the issuance date of your immigration pass. The processing time is generally 4 to 6 months. ### Application fees Next, pay a non-refundable application fee of SGD \$100. If successful, you’ll need to pay SGD \$20 for an Entry Permit, SGD \$50 for a 5-year Re-Entry Permit, SGD \$50 for an Identity Card, and SGD \$30 for an Entry Visa (if you require one). ## Secure international health insurance Whether you’ve decided to apply for permanent residence or Singapore citizenship, you should protect yourself with [international health insurance](https://www.pacificprime.sg/international-health-insurance-pacific-prime-insurance-brokers/). No matter where you are in the world, you would want access to the best treatments and medical facilities. With [expat health insurance](https://www.pacificprime.sg/expat-health-insurance/), you can travel worry-free. Backed by more than 20 years of experience in the broker industry, our team of insurance advisors are happy to help you [compare plans in Singapore](https://www.pacificprime.sg/plans/) and select the ones that suit your needs best. [Contact us today](https://www.pacificprime.sg/contact-us/) for a free quote and impartial advice\! [![Get an Insurance quote banner](https://www.pacificprime.sg/blog/wp-content/uploads/2019/06/PPSG_Gen_02.jpg)](https://www.pacificprime.sg/compare-quotes/step-one/?campSource=PPSG-Blog&utm_source=blog&utm_medium=cta_banner&utm_campaign=banner&utm_content=quote) - [Author](https://www.pacificprime.sg/blog/singapore-citizenship-permanent-residence-difference/#abh_about) - [Recent Posts](https://www.pacificprime.sg/blog/singapore-citizenship-permanent-residence-difference/#abh_posts) [![Serena Fung](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/aba64e292f17bc9409b0bce235e56bff?s=250&d=mm&r=g)](https://www.pacificprime.sg/blog/author/serena/ "Serena Fung") Serena Fung is a Senior Content Creator at Pacific Prime, a global insurance brokerage and employee specialist serving over 1.5 million clients in 15 offices across the world. With 2+ years of experience writing about the subject, she aims to demystify the world of insurance for readers with the latest updates, guides and articles on the blog. Serena earned her Bachelor’s Degree in Psychology from the University of British Columbia, Canada. As such, she is an avid advocate of mental health and is fascinated by all things psychology (especially if it’s cognitive psychology!). Her previous work experience includes teaching toddlers to read, writing for a travel/wellness online magazine, and then a business news blog. These combined experiences give her the skills and insights she needs to explain complex ideas in a succinct way. Being the daughter of an immigrant and a traveler herself, she is passionate about educating expats and digital nomads on travel and international health insurance. [![Serena Fung](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/aba64e292f17bc9409b0bce235e56bff?s=250&d=mm&r=g)](https://www.pacificprime.sg/blog/author/serena/ "Serena Fung")
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