Applying for permanent residency in Singapore can be quite the process, and with a rejection rate as high as 90%, it is no wonder why so many people are overwhelmed and daunted by this process. You want to be as prepared as possible when submitting your paperwork, and with our tips, you can significantly improve your chances.
There are a few elements and common mistakes to steer clear of when applying for your Singapore permanent residency. Let’s delve deeper into what they are and how you can avoid making them yourself.
5 Common PR Application Mistakes
Many people think the application process is simply about filling out forms online and submitting them with the required documents, but just one field left blank could mean your application is rejected. Since the 18th of December 2017, the ICA only accepts online applications, and therefore you need to be sure you use the e-PR system accurately.
1. Errors In, Or Incorrect Data Filled In On Your Online Application
No part of the application form should be left blank. If a question is not relevant to you, then writing ‘NA’ in the space provided will suffice. Check that you have the correct spelling for names and all information given; simple typing errors can make a technical difference and could result in your application being rejected.
Be sure you read a question more than once to fully understand what it is asking and to answer with relevance and appropriateness. These may seem small and insignificant points but could mean the difference between a successful application and great frustration for you.
2. Document Incompatibility
The guidelines for submitting documents for PR are clearly stated, and doing anything else other than following these will lead to rejection. Sizes and formats are crucial when attaching supporting documents.
Passport Photographs
Your photograph will ultimately be the picture printed into your NRIC when you become a Singapore Permanent Resident, so be sure it has been digitized with a matt finish to prevent shine and is in JPEG format. It should be under 1MB when uploaded with a standard sizing of 400 x 514 pixels.
Format Of Supporting Documents
You should preserve the quality and integrity of the documents you upload but must ensure they are under 2MB when uploaded and in JPEG or PDF format.
3. Failure To Submit The Required Documents Or Submitting The Incorrect Documents
Applicants often forget to add all relevant documents required as per the PR scheme they are applying, including, and this is vitally important, the correct translated version if needed and available. You will need to make sure these comply with ICA’s translation requirements, which state that only those from three types of institutions are acceptable.
A big mistake many people commit is overcompensating by adding too many unnecessary documents with the notion that you are helping your case more. You aren’t. You are simply creating more work for the officer who has to handle thousands of applications.
4. Rushing The Process
Your eagerness to submit your application may come from your good intentions, but this could backfire in the long run and will most likely result in the above-mentioned mistakes. Here are a few points to take note of before you begin:
Verify Your Singapore PR Eligibility First
Check whether you may apply through either the Family Scheme, through adoption or as a child, or on your merit as a technical or professional skilled worker.
Get Your Documents Together Beforehand
Having everything ready before you begin your application prevents panic. It also prevents a delay (you have a 7-day time limit) in your application if you need extra documents that you may have to find or file for.
Maximise Your Allocated Time
Make good use of the allotted time so you can go back to your application and make amendments if needed before the final submission. You will also want to save a copy of your completed application for yourself to have on hand.
5. Choice Of Route And Strength Of Merit
In some cases applying for your Singapore permanent residency before doing so for the whole family may be to your advantage. You may achieve PR based on your skills in your particular profession or field, and this should be pointed out in your application for increased chances of success.
Too often, applicants answer quickly without taking a minute to think about how best to complete the process. You want to have a strategy and plan in place on how to present yourself in the best light for a stronger application when striving for permanent residency in Singapore.
If applying as a family, as a whole, you may have a better chance. If your skill in your trade is not to what is considered a high level, but you are married to a Singapore permanent resident or citizen, they can then sponsor the application on your behalf.
A few other considerations are available, but each comes with its specific requirements, which you would need to be clear on; these are;
- An artist who has made notable contributions to the cultural scene
- A foreign investor with a renowned business and entrepreneurial history
- Foreign students who have passed a national exam and have been living in Singapore for at least 2 years
A Final Thought
It is widely known that over the past few years, the regulations and restrictions when applying for your Singapore permanent residency have become tighter and achieving success has become that much trickier.
The approval process is stricter now than in previous years due to complaints and concerns from the local workforce. Authorities have considered these opinions and have successfully created a process whereby a balance between social improvement in the community and increased economic growth can be achieved and maintained.
While the journey may seem tedious and, at times, daunting, it is not impossible, and many foreigners have enjoyed receiving their status and maintained happy lives.
Simple mistakes can happen with everyone, but with the help of companies who specialise in the field and by taking your time to ensure you meet all the requirements and check all the boxes, these can be avoided or prevented. A rushed application leads to the omission of information, forgotten documents, and an overall lacklustre performance which makes your application look not too serious. Preparation is fundamental for success. Engaging an immigration consultant would be even better to avoid these mistakes and increase your chances of getting a PR in the first go.
