If you’re a Singapore Permanent Resident (SPR), chances are that you’ve been using your SPR status here in Singapore for quite some time now. But no matter how long you’ve been an SPR, the day will come when your SPR status expires and you will have to renew it before you can legally stay in Singapore for good. In this article, we’ll be talking about what you need to know about your SP status, how to renew it, and how to go about doing so successfully.
Do I have time?
The process of renewing your Singapore Permanent Resident status can take some time, so it’s important to start planning ahead. The first step is to make sure that you have all the required documents. These include your passport, birth certificate, and proof of employment. Once you have gathered all the necessary paperwork, you will need to submit it to the Singapore Immigration and Checkpoints Authority (ICA). The ICA will then review your application and decide whether or not to approve your renewal. If everything goes smoothly, you should receive your new Singapore Permanent Resident card in the mail within a few weeks. Keep in mind that if any information on your application changes during this time, you will need to reapply for Singapore Permanent Resident Renewal. Otherwise, you may find yourself being penalized with fines or even denied renewal altogether.
Where do I start?
The first step is to check the validity of your Singapore Permanent Resident (SPR) status. You can do this by logging into the Immigration and Checkpoints Authority (ICA) website with your SingPass. If your status is valid, you will be able to see your next renewal date. If it has expired, you will need to apply for a new SPR. Singapore Permanent Resident Renewal applications are typically processed within three months but may take up to six months during busy periods. It costs $70 Singapore dollars ($64 USD) to renew an expiring Singapore Permanent Resident card and should take two weeks. Once your application has been processed, you will receive an SMS notification containing details on how to collect your new card from ICA in person or online through the e-Channel service via Post Office ExpressTM.
Who can help me with this renewal process?
If you have a spouse and children who are also Singapore Permanent Residents, they will need to renew their status as well. The process is similar to what you’ll need to do, so be sure to include them in your plans. You can either visit the Immigration & Checkpoints Authority (ICA). There are three ICA centres island-wide: Jurong East, Woodlands, and Bukit Batok. They are open Monday to Friday from 8am to 4pm on weekdays only.
If you cannot make it to one of these centres before its close of business hours or during its opening hours, there is another option for Singapore Permanent Resident Renewal which does not require any trip at all! Simply go online and submit an application form on the ICA website.
Don’t forget about your spouse and children!
If you’re a Singapore permanent resident planning on renewing your status, don’t forget that you need to include your spouse and any children under 21 in your application. The process is relatively straightforward, but there are a few things you need to know in order to make sure everything goes smoothly. Here’s what you need to do:
1. Gather the required documents. These include your passport, NRIC, marriage certificate (if applicable), and birth certificates for any children under 21.
2. Make an appointment with the Immigration & Checkpoints Authority (ICA). You can do this online or over the phone.
3. Attend your appointment and submit your application. Be sure to bring all of the required documents with you!
Why bother renewing your PR status in Singapore if you are an expat or digital nomad anyway?
There are a few key reasons why it may be beneficial for you to renew your PR status in Singapore, even if you are an expat or digital nomad. First, as a PR, you will have access to more government services and benefits than as a foreigner. Second, you may be able to sponsor your family members to come and live with you in Singapore. Third, PR status gives you more stability and security in case of an unforeseen event, such as losing your job or getting sick. Fourth, as a PR, you will be able to vote in national elections and have a say in the future of the country. Fifth, PR status gives you the ability to buy property in Singapore. Sixth, PRs enjoy certain tax benefits. Seventh, having PR status means that you can sponsor others to work in Singapore. Eighth, PRs can work without needing a work permit and ninth, they can start their own business without requiring permission from the Ministry of Manpower.
As we discussed before, there are many reasons why it is advantageous for you to keep your permanent resident status active by renewing yearly.
And what happens next after the renewal process?
After your renewal is complete, you’ll need to maintain your PR status by staying employed or investing in Singapore. If you leave the country for more than three months, you’ll need to apply for a re-entry permit. And every five years, you’ll need to renew your PR status again. So it’s important to keep up with the requirements and stay on top of the process. It’s also wise to plan ahead and get everything taken care of before it expires so that you don’t have any surprises come renewal time. I’m not sure when my next renewal is due? Don’t worry! The Ministry of Manpower will send out a reminder at least one month prior to your expiration date.
Do I need a lawyer to help me through this process? A lawyer can be helpful if you’re facing an issue or question not addressed in this blog post.
Is there anything else I should know about renewing my PR status? Once you’ve renewed, make sure that you maintain your status by fulfilling the conditions outlined above! Otherwise, you may lose all rights as a Singapore permanent resident.
