Table of Contents
Singapore is a top destination for Indians seeking better career opportunities, a high standard of living, and a multicultural environment. Known for its business-friendly policies, safety, and quality education, Singapore is often regarded as the gateway to Southeast Asia. If you are considering relocating to Singapore, this comprehensive guide will walk you through how to migrate to Singapore from India, the options to secure permanent residency (PR), and even the exploration of Singapore citizenship for Indians.
Explore here: Easy steps to get permanent residency in Singapore
Singapore Immigration Options for Indians
If you are thinking about how to Migrate to Singapore from India, there are several pathways based on your purpose of relocation:
Employment Pass (EP)
Components | Details |
Eligibility Criteria | Job offer in a managerial/executive position; minimum salary of SGD 5,000; recognized qualifications. |
Who Can Apply | Professionals, executives, and skilled workers with job offers in Singapore. |
Benefits | Live and work in Singapore, family can apply for a Dependent Pass. |
Processing Time | 3-4 weeks |
Validity | Up to 2 years for first-time applicants; up to 3 years for renewals. |
Application Deadlines | No fixed deadline; you ca apply anytime. |
Visa Costs | SGD 30 application fee; additional fees may apply for medical examinations and other documents. |
Personalized Employment Pass (PEP)
Components | Details |
Eligibility Criteria | Previous EP holders or high earners with an SGD 12,000 or more salary. |
Who Can Apply | Professionals with job offers in Singapore who meet the salary criteria. |
Benefits | Flexibility to change jobs without reapplying; family can apply for Dependent Pass. |
Processing Time | 3-4 weeks |
Validity | 3 years |
Application Deadlines | There is no fixed deadline, so you can apply anytime. |
Visa Costs | SGD 30 application fee; additional fees may apply for medical examinations and other documents. |
EntrePass
Components | Details |
Eligibility Criteria | Must meet innovative criteria for starting a business; no minimum salary required. |
Who Can Apply | Entrepreneurs looking to start and operate a business in Singapore. |
Benefits | Ability to start and operate a business in Singapore; family can apply for Dependent Pass. |
Processing Time | 3-4 weeks |
Validity | 1 year, renewable |
Application Deadlines | There is no fixed deadline, apply anytime. |
Visa Costs | SGD 30 application fee; additional fees may apply for medical examinations and other documents. |
S Pass
Criteria | Details |
Eligibility Criteria | Minimum salary of SGD 2,400; relevant qualifications required. |
Who Can Apply | Mid-skilled workers with job offers in Singapore. |
Benefits | Work in Singapore, the family can apply for a Dependent Pass. |
Processing Time | 3-4 weeks |
Validity | Up to 2 years, renewable |
Application Deadlines | There is no fixed deadline, so you can apply anytime. |
Visa Costs | SGD 30 application fee; additional fees may apply for medical examinations and other documents. |
Dependent Pass
Components | Details |
Eligibility Criteria | Must be a spouse or child of EP or S Pass holder; main pass holder must earn at least SGD 6,000. |
Who Can Apply | Families of EP or S Pass holders |
Benefits | Allows family members to live in Singapore |
Processing Time | 3 weeks |
Validity | Tied to the main pass holder’s validity |
Application Deadlines | There is no fixed deadline, so you can apply anytime. |
Visa Costs | SGD 30 application fee; additional fees may apply for medical examinations and other documents. |
Permanent Residency
Criteria | Details |
Eligibility Criteria | – Held an Employment Pass or S Pass for at least 6 months.
– Family Ties Scheme for spouse/child of PR/citizen. – Global Investor Programme. |
Who Can Apply | Employment pass holders, investors, or family members of Singapore PR/citizens. |
Benefits | – Live, work, and study in Singapore without restrictions. – Access to healthcare, education, and housing. |
Processing Time | 6–12 months |
Validity | Permanent (renewable every 5 years). |
Application Deadlines | Apply after meeting eligibility criteria. |
Visa Costs | SGD 100 (application fee). |
Why Migrate to Singapore from India
Is it worth moving to Singapore from India?
Well, I guess yes Singapore has long been a favored destination for Indian professionals, entrepreneurs, and families due to its numerous benefits. Anyone who wants to work or study in Singapore can also check the details over here.
- Strong Economy: As a global business hub, Singapore offers ample job opportunities in industries like IT, finance, healthcare, engineering, and education.
- Quality of Life: Ranked among the best cities to live in, Singapore offers excellent healthcare, infrastructure, and education.
- Proximity to India: Singapore is only a 4-5 hour flight from major Indian cities, making it easier to visit family and friends.
- Multicultural Society: Singapore is home to a large Indian community, with Indian temples, cultural events, and Indian cuisine widely available.
Also Read: Singapore work permit – application, requirements, and more
How To Get Singapore Citizenship
Is it hard to immigrate to Singapore?
Migrating to Singapore and obtaining citizenship is a structured process for Indian nationals, involving specific eligibility criteria and application steps. Here’s a comprehensive overview of the requirements and procedures for Indians seeking Singapore citizenship.
Eligibility Criteria:
To apply for Singapore citizenship, Indian applicants must meet the following criteria:
- Permanent Residency: Must be a Permanent Resident (PR) of Singapore for at least two years.
- Age: Applicants must be at least 21 years old to apply independently; minors can apply through their parents.
- Marital Status: Spouses of Singapore citizens can apply after being PRs for two years.
- Economic Contribution: Demonstrating financial stability and the ability to contribute to Singapore’s economy is essential.
- Character: A clean criminal record and good character are mandatory.
- Commitment to Singapore: Applicants must show intent to reside permanently and integrate into Singaporean society.
Application Process
The application process for Singapore citizenship involves several key steps:
- Document Preparation:
Gather necessary documents, including: Completed Form 4 (Application for Singapore Citizenship.
- Online Submission:
Apply through the Immigration and Checkpoints Authority (ICA) e-Service portal using a SingPass account.
- Application Fee:
Pay a non-refundable application fee (approximately SGD 100).
- Interview:
Attend an interview with ICA officials if required, where your integration into society and contributions will be assessed.
- Approval and Oath of Allegiance:
If approved, attend a ceremony to take the Oath of Allegiance to Singapore and receive your citizenship certificate.
Also Read: Jobs in Singapore | 7 highest-paying jobs you should know about
Cost of Migrating to Singapore
While Singapore immigration is streamlined, moving to the country involves some expenses. Here’s an estimate of the costs:
Expense | Cost (SGD) |
Employment Pass Fee | $105 – $225 |
PR Application Fee | $100 |
Rental Housing (per month) | $1,500 – $3,500 |
Food and Groceries | $300 – $500 |
Transportation | $100 – $150 |
Country-wise Study Abroad | |
Study in the UK | Study in USA |
Study in the Netherlands | Study in New Zealand |
Study in Germany | Study in Ireland |
Summary
Migrating to Singapore from India offers tremendous opportunities for career growth, quality of life, and personal development. Whether you are looking for a job, starting a business, or planning to settle permanently, Singapore provides various pathways for immigration. By securing Singapore permanent resident (PR) status, you gain long-term benefits, including the option to apply for Singapore citizenship for Indians. With a structured immigration process, excellent infrastructure, and vibrant multicultural society, Singapore is the perfect destination for Indians seeking a brighter future. Start your journey today by exploring the available Singapore immigration options and take the first step towards a successful life in Singapore.
FAQs About How to Migrate to Singapore from India
Ques 1. How can I migrate to Singapore from India?
Answer 1. You can migrate to Singapore through employment (Employment Pass, S Pass), entrepreneurship (EntrePass), or by obtaining a Permanent Residency (PR).
Ques 2. How do Indians get PR in Singapore?
Answer 2. Indians can apply for PR under the Professional, Technical Personnel, and Skilled Workers (PTS) scheme after working in Singapore for at least 6 months. Other pathways include the Global Investor Programme and Family Sponsor Scheme.
Ques 3. How long does it take to get PR in Singapore?
Answer 3. It typically takes 4-6 months for the PR application to be processed. The timeline may vary based on the volume of applications.
Ques 4. Can Indian citizens get Singapore citizenship?
Answer 4. Yes, Indian citizens can apply for Singapore citizenship after holding PR status for at least 2 years. However, they must renounce their Indian citizenship as Singapore does not permit dual citizenship.
Ques 5. What is the cost of living in Singapore for Indians?
Answer 5. The average cost of living in Singapore for a single person ranges from SGD 2,500 to SGD 4,000 per month, depending on accommodation, lifestyle, and personal expenses.
Ques 6. Is Singapore PR better than an Employment Pass?
Answer 6. Yes, PR offers greater stability and flexibility compared to an Employment Pass, including the freedom to change jobs, access to healthcare subsidies, and the ability to sponsor family members.