Can you move to Singapore?

Singapore citizenship is governed by the Constitution of Singapore and the Singapore Citizenship Act. Eligible foreign nationals may apply for citizenship through naturalisation after satisfying the applicable legal requirements. Applications are assessed individually and approval is granted at the discretion of the Singapore Government. Citizenship may also be acquired through birth or descent under applicable law. Permanent residence does not automatically lead to Singapore citizenship.

Singapore does not currently operate a dedicated Digital Nomad Visa programme. Foreign nationals intending to work remotely while residing in Singapore should ensure they hold an immigration status that permits their intended activities and complies with Singapore's immigration and employment laws. Individuals seeking long-term residence generally qualify through employment, business, investment or other approved immigration pathways.

Singapore provides permanent residence pathways for eligible foreign nationals under programmes administered by the Immigration & Checkpoints Authority. Eligibility depends on factors such as employment status, family ties, economic contribution and other criteria established under Singapore law. Permanent residence provides long-term residence rights but does not automatically confer Singapore citizenship.

Processing times for Singapore immigration applications vary depending on the pass category, supporting documentation and the authority responsible for assessing the application. Applications requiring additional verification may take longer. Applicants should ensure that all documentation is complete before submission and should avoid making irreversible relocation arrangements until official approval has been granted.

Entry and visa document requirements vary by nationality and pass type, but core requirements include a passport valid for at least 6 months from the date of entry, a recent passport-sized colour photo (taken within the last 3 months, white background, full face, no headgear), and — for short-term visitors — proof of sufficient funds and onward travel. Travellers from visa-required countries must obtain a visa before travel; all travellers must submit the SG Arrival Card within 3 days (including day of arrival) before arriving in Singapore.

Singapore does not operate a dedicated retirement visa programme. Foreign nationals wishing to reside in Singapore after retirement generally need to qualify under another immigration pathway recognised by Singapore law, such as family sponsorship or other approved residence programmes. Applicants should carefully review the immigration options available to ensure compliance with Singapore's immigration regulations.

Singapore offers several immigration pathways for foreign nationals seeking employment, business opportunities, study, investment or long-term residence. Immigration categories are generally linked to the purpose of stay, with separate passes available for professionals, skilled workers, entrepreneurs, students and eligible family members. Applicants should select the immigration pathway that best reflects their intended activities in Singapore. Long-term residence and permanent residence are administered under Singapore's immigration framework and eligibility varies by programme.

Singapore's main professional work pass is the Employment Pass (EP), requiring both a minimum qualifying salary and a passing score on the points-based COMPASS framework. For 2026, the salary floor is S$5,600/month (non-financial sectors) or S$6,200/month (financial services) for candidates aged 23 or below, rising progressively with age to S$10,700 (non-financial) or S$11,800 (financial) at age 45+ — the threshold is benchmarked against the top one-third of local PMET salaries. Beyond the salary floor, candidates must also score at least 40 points under COMPASS, which evaluates salary, qualifications, workforce diversity, and local employment support. From 1 January 2027, the minimum qualifying salary rises further to S$6,000 (non-financial) / S$6,600 (financial), with existing pass renewals from 1 January 2028 also needing to meet the new thresholds.