What matters most when applying for PR

Why would an expat in Singapore consider applying for PR (permanent residency)? There’s a bunch of reasons! First, it bestows quite a few benefits, from taxation and medical, to property and visas. It also gives a welcome stability as far as jobs go – you can change employment without needing to reapply for a work permit, and without the pressure of timing and delays. It’s not easy to get, though, so you may need the help of an immigration consultant.

This is because the ICA (Immigration & Checkpoints Authority) sets a pretty stringent evaluation process, which has made it increasingly difficult to get PR applications approved. Thankfully, there are people who can help. One is immigration consultancy firm Paul Immigrations, which specialises in helping expats who are applying for PR. Here, they run us through some of the possible key factors considered by the ICA, to help give you the edge. Read on!

# How old you are

Economic experts have described Singapore as a “demographic time bomb”. Why? The median age of the country’s current resident population is reportedly hovering at 40.5 years. This is in stark contrast to the projected median age of 29.8 years for ASEAN nations for 2020. By 2030, the total percentage of the senior population is predicted to have increased by 27%, further widening the age-gap epidemic between young and old.

Because of this, you’ll likely stand a better chance of getting your PR application approved if you’re below the age of 50. A younger applicant is considered to have more years to contribute vigorously to Singapore’s economy and society, while helping rebalance the old-age support ratio. Having said that, while a younger age may swing the odds during the initial stages of the PR evaluation, not all hope is lost. Fortunately, the ICA will view your submission as a whole, taking into consideration other factors when they assess your application. These include the potential impact of your contribution to society or the economy over time.

# Where you were educated

With PR applications increasing in volume over recent years, the bar is set high to filter out the cream of the crop. In turn, this means that having a good academic qualification from a reputable institution is likely to swing some additional points in your favour. Subject-matter expertise or specialised technical qualifications in key market sectors will also hold weight, especially for skilled-specific positions.

# How much you earn

Singapore is a progressive place. It constantly seeks well-balanced and highly competent individuals to join the workforce and contribute positively to the economy. So, it’s easy to assume that gross income would be a key strategic driver for PR approvals. In fact, the government adopts a holistic approach to this. It considers all manner of contributions – not only earning capacity but also spending power. Younger applicants or PMEs (professionals, managers and executives) from a lower-income bracket are not at a disadvantage.

# What your job is

Research and development (R&D) is the cornerstone of Singapore’s economic development. The country boasts a strong network of both public and private R&D centres. As such, having technical proficiency or subject-matter expertise in the key industries related to R&D may prove a difference in edging out other PR applicants. Another consideration is whether the industry you’re currently in is seasonal or brief; also, if your employment is short term (assignment-based) or for the long haul.

# Whether you have family

Starting a new life here with your family may also enhance your chances of PR approval. It’s seen as a positive influence aligned with Singapore’s interest. If you already have family members or close relatives residing as citizens or Permanent Residents, you may stand a better chance for your application to be approved.

Also …

With the large volume of people applying for PR, it’s more important than ever to fill out your application forms concisely, and present other relevant or supporting documents in an organised manner. The authorities can critically evaluate your application more efficiently when your key information is displayed clearly.

Getting help from Alf Immigration

Clearly, applying for PR is a complex business. An immigration service like Alf Immigration can help you in many ways. For example, it can look at eligibility assessment through an in-depth consultation. And it can provide a step-by-step guide to collating all the relevant documents and vital information. It will also go the extra mile for clients by offering a personalised cover letter to further enhance the content and presentation of the application.

Contact Alf Immigration for help or advice on your PR application.

Read on for more handy tips on living in Singapore:

The expat’s guide to where to live in Singapore
Getting your investments in order before you go home