New Rules for Singapore PR Application: 2025–2026 Updates
The latest changes and updates to Singapore PR application rules, requirements, and processes.
Overview of 2025–2026 Changes
The past 12 months have brought the most significant changes to Singapore's immigration policy in years. The government announced a major increase in PR intake to 40,000 per year, overhauled the REP process with a new 180-day grace period, and updated EP salary thresholds and COMPASS benchmarks. Here are the key developments.
1. PR Intake Increase to 40,000 Per Year (Feb 2026)
On 26 February 2026, Deputy Prime Minister Gan Kim Yong announced during the Committee of Supply Debate that Singapore will grant approximately 40,000 PRs per year and 25,000–30,000 new citizenships per year over the next five years.
Why the increase?
Singapore's Total Fertility Rate dropped to 0.87 in 2025 (record low), with only ~27,500 resident births — the lowest in recorded history. One in five citizens is now aged 65 or older. Without immigration, the citizen population could start shrinking by the early 2040s.
Source: Population.gov.sg
What this means for applicants: This is the most favourable policy environment for PR applicants in over a decade. With ~5,000 more PR places per year compared to 2023–2024, approval rates are expected to improve across all profiles.
2. REP 180-Day Grace Period (Dec 2025)
From 1 December 2025, ICA introduced a 180-day grace period for PRs overseas whose REP has expired. Previously, PRs had approximately one month before losing their status permanently.
| Aspect | Before Dec 2025 | From Dec 2025 |
|---|---|---|
| Grace period (overseas, expired REP) | ~1 month | 180 days |
| Apply from overseas | Required local representative | Can apply directly online |
| After grace period expires | PR cancelled | PR permanently cancelled |
Source: ICA FAQ on REP Revisions, KPMG Flash Alert
For a full guide on REP renewal, see our REP Renewal Requirements article.
3. Higher EP Qualifying Salaries & COMPASS Updates (Jan 2026)
From 1 January 2026, EP salary thresholds for renewal applications now match those for new applicants. Previously, existing EP holders could renew at lower salary benchmarks. The minimum EP salary remains at S$5,600/month (S$6,200 for financial services). EPs earning above S$22,500/month are exempt from COMPASS.
Additionally, MOM has revised the COMPASS sector-specific salary benchmarks and qualification lists effective 1 January 2026 for new EPs, and 1 July 2026 for renewals.
Source: KPMG Flash Alert, MOM
What this means for PR applicants: If your salary was competitive when you received your EP but now falls below the updated thresholds, your PR application may be assessed less favourably. Check your salary against the latest benchmarks before applying.
4. Increased Emphasis on Integration
ICA continues to place greater emphasis on genuine integration into Singapore society. This goes beyond just living and working here:
- Community volunteering and involvement in local organisations
- Children enrolled in local schools (not just international schools)
- Family connections in Singapore (parents, in-laws)
- Property ownership or long-term rental commitments
- Participation in national events and community activities
- Commitment to National Service obligations (for male PRs and their sons)
5. Student PR Pathway Eased (2025)
Singapore eased the path to PR for international students in 2025. Students can now apply for PR through the Foreign Student PR Scheme (PTS) after passing a national exam (PSLE, GCE N/O/A Levels) without the previous 2-year waiting period. Male students granted PR will have National Service obligations.
Source: AACRAO
6. Other Changes
Work Permit employment duration limit removed (Jul 2025)
MOM removed the maximum employment duration for Work Permit holders, allowing longer tenure in Singapore. This may lead to more WP holders eventually transitioning to S Pass or EP and applying for PR.
GIP fee increase to S$20,000 (May 2025)
The Global Investor Programme application fee was raised to S$20,000 and investment thresholds were updated. From 2015–2025, approximately 450 investors were granted PR through GIP, investing around S$500 million total.
No change to PR application fee
The PR application processing fee remains at S$100 per applicant. The Entry Permit fee (S$20) and IC fee (S$50) upon approval are unchanged.
What Should Applicants Do Differently in 2026?
Apply sooner rather than later
With 40,000 PR places per year, the current window is the most favourable in over a decade. Don’t wait for the environment to tighten again.
Benchmark your salary
Check how your salary compares to the latest EP thresholds (S$5,600 minimum, S$6,200 for financial services) and COMPASS industry medians.
Document integration evidence
Start collecting evidence now — volunteer certificates, event photos, membership cards, donation receipts, community involvement records.
Highlight in-demand skills
If you work in a shortage sector (tech, AI, cybersecurity, healthcare, biomedical, green economy), make sure your cover letter explicitly connects your skills to Singapore’s economic priorities.
Renew your REP early
If you’re already a PR, don’t rely on the new 180-day grace period. Renew your REP at least 3 months before expiry.
Navigate the 2026 Rules With Expert Help
Our consultants stay current with every policy change. Book a free consultation to discuss how the latest rules affect your specific situation.