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Permanent Residency

Singapore PR for foreign students

Students who have spent several years in Singapore’s education system may be eligible for PR. Many Chinese and Thai families plan this route from the start.

  • Student Pass holders
  • Integrated Programme students
  • Study to work to PR planning

Who is eligible

ICA allows foreign students to apply for PR if they meet its study conditions. In general, students must have:

  • Lived in Singapore for more than 2 years at the time of application, and
  • Passed at least one national examination (such as PSLE, GCE N, O or A Level), or be in the Integrated Programme

Requirements can change, so we confirm the current ICA rules for your child before you apply.

The study, work, PR pathway

For university students and graduates, the more common route is to find a job after graduating, obtain an Employment Pass, and apply for PR under the PTS scheme. A Singapore degree is a strong addition to any PR profile.

  1. Study in Singapore

    Student Pass at a school or university registered with ICA.

  2. Graduate and work

    Employment Pass or S Pass with a Singapore employer.

  3. Apply for PR

    Under the student scheme if eligible, or under PTS after building a work record.

For parents of young students

Mothers or grandmothers of young Student Pass holders may be able to stay in Singapore on a Long-Term Visit Pass while the child studies. See our Long-Term Visit Pass services.

Frequently asked questions

Can international university students apply for PR?

University students can apply if they meet ICA’s student conditions, but many find it more effective to apply after starting work on an Employment Pass.

Will my son have to do National Service?

Male students who become PRs are generally liable for National Service. Please consider this carefully before applying. We explain the rules during consultation.

Find out where you stand in 3 minutes

Take our free PR Chance Calculator or book a private consultation in English, Mandarin or Thai.