Response for Unsuccessful Applications for Permanent Residency by Repeat Applicants Living Long Term in Singapore

Mr Zhulkarnain Abdul Rahim asked the Minister for Home Affairs whether ICA will consider providing some reason or a general response as to why an application for permanent residency is unsuccessful, especially for repeat applicants who have been living in Singapore for a long period of time, so that they can have a better understanding of their path towards permanent residency.

Applications for Permanent Residency (PR) are evaluated on criteria covering a range of factors. The applicant’s length of residency is only one of the factors considered by the Immigration and Checkpoints Authority (ICA). The other factors include, but are not limited to, the applicant’s family ties to Singaporeans, economic contributions, educational qualifications, age and family profile, the applicant’s ability to integrate into our society and commitment to sinking roots in Singapore.

We do not share the specific grounds for rejecting PR applications. First, information about detailed assessment criteria can be abused to inflate an undeserving applicant’s chances of success or to game the system. Second, the reasons for rejection may be used to arouse negative sentiments in other countries. This may create bilateral sensitivities and is not in Singapore's interest.