The Family Ties Scheme is one of Singapore’s pathways for acquiring Permanent Residency (PR). It is designed to facilitate the unification of families by allowing certain foreign individuals with family connections in Singapore to apply for PR status. The scheme reinforces Singapore’s commitment to family values and community building, making it an appealing option for individuals who wish to live and contribute to Singaporean society while remaining close to their loved ones.
What is the Family Ties Scheme?
The Family Ties Scheme allows eligible foreign family members of Singapore citizens (SCs) and Permanent Residents (PRs) to apply for PR status. Unlike other schemes, such as the Professionals, Technical Personnel and Skilled Workers (PTS) Scheme or the Global Investor Programme, which are typically based on employment or investment potential, the Family Ties Scheme focuses primarily on an individual’s familial relationship with a Singaporean or PR.
Eligibility for the Family Ties Scheme
To apply for PR under the Family Ties Scheme, applicants must have a qualifying relationship with either a Singaporean citizen or a Permanent Resident such as:
- Spouse of a Singapore Citizen or PR: Spouses of Singaporean citizens or PRs are eligible to apply under this scheme. For married couples, this can facilitate family unification and long-term settlement in Singapore.
- Unmarried Child (Below 21 years old) of a Singapore Citizen or PR: The scheme allows children of Singaporean citizens or PRs to apply for PR, provided they are unmarried and under the age of 21. This criterion is designed to help parents secure a stable future for their children in Singapore.
- Aged Parent of a Singapore Citizen: Aged parents of Singaporean citizens may apply under this scheme as well, giving adult children the option to bring their elderly parents closer for care and support.
Notably, while the Family Ties Scheme covers spouses, unmarried children, and aged parents, other relatives, such as siblings or married children, do not qualify for Singapore PR under this scheme.
Advantages of the Family Ties Scheme
Obtaining PR status in Singapore under the Family Ties Scheme brings several advantages:
- Stability and Security: PR status allows individuals to live, work, and study in Singapore without additional visa requirements, providing a secure and stable environment for families to thrive together.
- World-Class Education System: Singapore’s education system is widely recognised as one of the best in the world. Built on a foundation of rigorous standards, innovative policies, and a culture that values learning, it has consistently produced students who excel in international assessments like the Programme for International Student Assessment (PISA) and Trends in International Mathematics and Science Study (TIMSS).
- Access to Social Benefits: PRs are eligible for various social benefits, including subsidised healthcare and access to the Central Provident Fund (CPF), Singapore’s social security system. With S$607.90 billion worth of assets, Singapore’s CPF was recently ranked 16th of the world’s 100 largest asset owners in 2023. CPF also claimed the top spot in Asia in a global pension index for the 16th consecutive year and achieved the second-highest grade of B+ for the second year in a row.
- Excellent Healthcare: Singapore’s healthcare system is globally renowned for its efficiency, affordability, and high quality of care. Built on a unique financial framework that combines government subsidies, compulsory savings, and private insurance, Singapore ensures that state-of-the-art healthcare services remain accessible to its citizens and residents, including families with children and aged parents. Singapore’s healthcare system has achieved remarkable results, including one of the highest life expectancies and lowest infant mortality rates in the world. Families benefit from a focus on preventive care, which reduces the prevalence of chronic illnesses and ensures healthier lives for all age groups.
- Access to Jobs for Spouses of PRs: Spouses of PR holders can have easier access to job opportunities in Singapore, contributing to their financial independence and integration into the local community. Spouses of PR holders can apply for a Letter of Consent (LOC) or a valid work pass to take up employment in Singapore. Employers are typically required to sponsor the work pass application, but the presence of a PR spouse often strengthens the candidate’s profile in terms of stability and long-term commitment to Singapore. Gaining employment as the spouse of a PR can also serve as a stepping stone toward securing their own PR status. Contributing to Singapore’s workforce and integrating into the community are favorable factors considered in PR applications.
- Pathway to Citizenship: PR status is often seen as a stepping stone toward Singaporean citizenship, which provides even greater rights and benefits, such as the right to vote and access to public housing.
Tips for a Successful Application
While the Family Ties Scheme primarily relies on familial relationships, there are several ways to enhance the strength of an application:
- Showcase Financial Stability: ICA may consider the financial stability of the applicant to ensure they are capable of contributing to society without being overly dependent on the state. Providing evidence of steady income, savings, and/or investments can be beneficial.
- Demonstrate Strong Family Bonds: Applicants should clearly demonstrate the nature and strength of their relationship with their Singaporean or PR family member. This could include sharing their commitment to family responsibilities and plans to build a life together in Singapore.
- Maintain a Positive Record in Singapore: A clean record in terms of lawfulness and good behavior in Singapore, along with contributions to community activities such as consistent donations or volunteering, may positively impact an application.
The Family Ties Scheme in Singapore PR Application
The Family Ties Scheme is a valuable opportunity for families to reunite in Singapore and build a shared future. By providing a pathway for spouses, unmarried children, and aged parents of Singaporean citizens or PRs, the scheme fosters a sense of belonging and continuity for families.
While the application process may require time and careful preparation, understanding the criteria and following the steps can significantly improve an applicant’s chances. For those eligible, the Family Ties Scheme offers not only a pathway to PR but also an invaluable opportunity to build a life with loved ones in Singapore’s dynamic and diverse society.
Get Immigration@SG’s help with your Singapore PR application via the Family Ties Scheme for a better chance at getting an approval. Call/Whatsapp 8766 1966 or email to info@iasg.com.sg to book an appointment.
