Not everyone can apply for this permit however, and it is limited to the following groups of people:
- The spouse of, and the unmarried children under 21 of a Singaporean or a Permanent Resident of Singapore
- The parents of a Singaporean
- A P/Q/S Pass holder
- Entrepreneurs/Investors
One that qualifies can download the appropriate forms at http://www.ica.gov.sg/. Expect to wait approximately three months after applying to hear whether or not the request was granted. The Entry Permit costs S$100 initially with a S$10 annual fee for renewal paid every year. Some visitors will also require a visa which costs an additional $30.
If Permanent Residence is granted, one is obliged to serve for the National Service (NS). It is a requirement that all male citizens and permanent residents register for the NS at 16.5 years of age. After turning 18, two years of service is required, followed by 40 days a year to maintain readiness. This continues until the age of 40 for non-officers and 50 for officers. The only exception to this are: males granted Permanent Residence through the Professions/Technical Personnel and Skilled Workers or the Investors Scheme.