In our Spotlight on APAC series, we round up the latest developments across the region. In this post, we look at the recent updates by the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) of Singapore on the PR re-entry permit application process.
Effective from 1 December 2025, Singapore permanent residents who are overseas without a valid re-entry permit will have a prescribed period of 180 days to apply for one and if approved, they may retain their PR status. The 180-day period begin from the date on which the permanent resident first remains outside Singapore without a valid re-entry permit. During this period, they may re-enter Singapore once with a single-entry pass, subject to ICA checks.
Failure to apply, or rejection of the application, will result in loss of PR status. A valid re-entry permit is necessary whenever a permanent resident travels out of Singapore which allows them to retain their PR status while abroad.
With this revised process, there will no longer be an avenue for reinstatement once a permanent resident loses their status. A fresh application will be required, subject to eligibility requirements.
Revision to Singapore PR re-entry permit application process from 1 December 2025
|
PR status and actions needed |
Current Process |
From 1 Dec |
||
|
PR status, if outside Singapore without a valid re-entry permit |
Loses PR status |
Must apply for REP within 180 days to keep PR Continues to be a PR within the 180 days* or beyond that when REP application is pending |
||
|
Actions needed to reinstate PR status, if outside Singapore without a valid REP |
Apply for a reinstatement of PR by applying for an REP within the grace period of 1 month |
PR reinstatement no longer allowed once PR status is lost To submit fresh PR application, if eligible to do so |
||
|
REP application outcome and PR status |
If REP approved ↓ PR reinstated |
If PR rejectedNot a PR, and PR is not reinstated |
If REP approved
Retains PR status |
If REP rejected Loses PR status |
For more information or assistance on the above or on other global immigration matters, please do not hesitate to contact Rachel.Ang@magrath.sg or nur.erniwaty@magrath.sg.
Author
