Debated in Parliament on 14 Nov 2012.
Asst Prof Tan Kheng Boon Eugene asked the Prime Minister (a) from 1991 to 2010, what is the annual number of new citizens who were granted citizenship without first being permanent residents; (b) for the periods 1991 to 2000 and 2001 to 2010 respectively, what is the average length of permanent residency before conversion to citizenship; and (c) what is being done to encourage more permanent residents to apply for citizenship earlier.
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From 1991 to 2010, an average of 1,600 persons annually were granted citizenship without first being permanent residents (PRs). These were minors who registered for citizenship after they were born overseas to Singapore Citizens, as well as minors of successful citizenship applicants. Under the Constitution, minors do not need to obtain permanent residence status first in order to be eligible for citizenship.
Over the period of 1991 to 2010, most PRs who took up citizenship did so within six years of becoming PRs.
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Taking up citizenship is a serious commitment which is ultimately a personal decision. While we welcome qualified PRs who have decided to make their future here to consider applying for citizenship sooner rather than later, this is best served by ensuring that Singapore Citizens are well looked after. To reflect the responsibilities and privileges of citizenship, and to acknowledge Singapore Citizens' commitment to Singapore, Singapore Citizens receive more support and benefits in the areas of marriage and parenthood, housing, healthcare and education. Over the past few years, we have widened the differentiation in benefits accorded to Singapore Citizens and to PRs. We should also continue to be a society that is open and gracious. How welcoming and accepting we are of newcomers will also impact on their decision to sink roots here permanently.
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