Residence in Singapore: permits and requirements
Living legally in Singapore is possible through 6 permit types: work, permanent, investment, study. Each program has its own requirements; below are the duration, renewal, costs and documentation according to the country's official sources.
Employment Pass (EP)
Residence type #1 of 6
Work permit for foreign professionals with high salaries and qualifications. Issued by the Ministry of Manpower.
Requirements
- Minimum monthly salary of 5,600 SGD (2026; higher for the financial sector: 6,200 SGD)
- University degree or recognized professional diploma
- Age: ideally 21-45
- Employment in a managerial, professional or technical occupation
- Comply with the COMPASS system (minimum score of 40 points)
Documentation
- Valid passport
- EP application form (e-Service by the company)
- Certified university degree
- Detailed curriculum vitae
- Previous employment certificate
- Passport-size photos
- Job offer letter from a Singaporean company
Frequently asked questions about residence in Singapore
How many types of residence permits are there in Singapore?
Singapore offers 6 residence permit types, grouped into the categories work, permanent, investment, study. Each permit has its own requirements, duration and documentation, detailed in this fact sheet according to the country's official sources.
How long do residence permits in Singapore last?
Durations vary by permit type: 2 years (initial), 3 years (renewal); 2 years renewable; 1 to 5 years renewable; Indefinite (Re-Entry Permit renewed every 5 years for travel). The exact details of each type appear in the corresponding fact sheet.
Can residence permits in Singapore be renewed?
Yes. All residence permit types of Singapore (6 in total) are renewable before their expiration, according to the rules of each program.
What documentation is usually required to reside in Singapore?
Although each permit requires its own file, the most recurrent documents are: Valid passport; Formulario de solicitud; Passport-size photos; Certificado de antecedentes penales. The complete list by residence type appears in each fact sheet, together with the corresponding official link.
Does residence in Singapore lead to nationality?
Yes, through the Naturalization by permanent residence pathway, which requires 2 years as a PR of legal residence. The complete requirements are in the nationality fact sheet of Singapore.
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Anything to correct or add about Singapore?
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