As one of the most cosmopolitan cities in the world, Singapore is a popular destination for expats looking to start a new life or further their careers. With its business-friendly environment, high standard of living, and diverse culture, it’s no wonder why many foreigners are eager to make Singapore their home. However, becoming a Singapore citizen is not a straightforward process, and expats must meet specific requirements and follow a strict application process. In this guide, we will outline the Singapore citizenship requirements for expats, including eligibility, application, and integration.
Eligibility
To be eligible for Singapore citizenship, expats must meet certain criteria. The most common path to citizenship is through naturalization, which requires applicants to be at least 21 years old and have been a permanent resident (PR) of Singapore for at least 6 years. During this time, applicants must have been gainfully employed and have a good character.
Another route to citizenship is through registration, which is available to children born in Singapore to at least one parent who is a Singapore citizen. In this case, the child will automatically be granted citizenship at birth.
In addition to these routes, Singapore also offers citizenship through the “Singaporean Spouse” scheme, which allows foreign-born spouses of Singaporean citizens to apply for citizenship after 3 years of marriage and 3 years of residence in Singapore. The spouse must have been living in Singapore for at least 2 years before the application is submitted.
Application
Once expats meet the eligibility criteria, they can begin the application process. The first step is to submit an application form, which can be found on the Immigration & Checkpoints Authority (ICA) website. The form must be completed in English and accompanied by supporting documents, including:
- A certified copy of the applicant’s birth certificate
- A certified copy of the applicant’s passport
- A certified copy of the applicant’s marriage certificate (if applicable)
- A certified copy of the applicant’s divorce or death certificate (if applicable)
- A letter from the applicant’s employer confirming their employment and salary
- A letter from the applicant’s bank confirming their account and income
- A police report or certificate of good conduct (if applicable)
Expats must also attend an interview at the ICA office, where they will be required to provide biometric data, including fingerprints and a digital photo. The interview will also give the ICA an opportunity to assess the applicant’s language proficiency and cultural integration.
Integration
One of the key requirements for Singapore citizenship is integration into Singaporean society. This can be demonstrated through various means, including:
- Language proficiency: Expats must be able to speak, read, and write in English, Malay, Mandarin Chinese, or Tamil, which are the four official languages of Singapore.
- Cultural adaptation: Expats must demonstrate an understanding and appreciation of Singaporean culture and customs, including the importance of family, respect for authority, and community involvement.
- Economic contribution: Expats must demonstrate a commitment to contributing to Singapore’s economy, either through employment or entrepreneurship.
- Civic engagement: Expats must demonstrate a commitment to participating in Singaporean society, including voting in elections and serving on community boards.
Expats can demonstrate their integration by:
- Enrolling in language classes or cultural programs
- Participating in community activities or volunteer work
- Joining a trade union or professional association
- Opening a business or investing in a Singaporean company
Conclusion
Becoming a Singapore citizen is a significant milestone for expats, and it requires meeting specific eligibility criteria, submitting a thorough application, and demonstrating integration into Singaporean society. By understanding the requirements and process, expats can better prepare themselves for the journey to citizenship. Whether through naturalization, registration, or the “Singaporean Spouse” scheme, becoming a Singapore citizen can open up new opportunities and provide a sense of belonging in this vibrant and cosmopolitan city.
FAQs
Q: What is the processing time for a Singapore citizenship application?
A: The processing time for a Singapore citizenship application typically takes around 6-12 months, but may vary depending on the complexity of the application and the availability of supporting documents.
Q: Can I still apply for Singapore citizenship if I have a criminal record?
A: Yes, you can still apply for Singapore citizenship if you have a criminal record, but you will need to provide a police report or certificate of good conduct as part of your application.
Q: Do I need to renounce my current citizenship to become a Singapore citizen?
A: No, you do not need to renounce your current citizenship to become a Singapore citizen. However, you will need to declare your intention to retain your current citizenship during the application process.
Q: Can I apply for Singapore citizenship if I am married to a Singaporean citizen but we are separated?
A: No, you cannot apply for Singapore citizenship if you are married to a Singaporean citizen but you are separated. You must be living with your spouse at the time of application.
Q: Can I apply for Singapore citizenship if I am a permanent resident but have not lived in Singapore for 6 years?
A: No, you cannot apply for Singapore citizenship if you are a permanent resident but have not lived in Singapore for 6 years. You must have been a permanent resident for at least 6 years before applying for citizenship.
Q: What is the fee for a Singapore citizenship application?
A: The fee for a Singapore citizenship application is currently SGD 1,000, which includes the application fee and the citizenship test fee.
Q: Can I appeal if my Singapore citizenship application is rejected?
A: Yes, you can appeal if your Singapore citizenship application is rejected. You will need to submit a written appeal to the ICA, providing additional information or evidence to support your application.
