Number of Permanent Residents Taking up Singapore Citizenship
Prime Minister's OfficeSpeakers
Summary
This question concerns the conversion of Permanent Residents (PRs) to Singapore citizenship and the statistics of individuals holding long-term residency. MP Pritam Singh requested data on PRs remaining in status for over 25 years and queried how the government encourages citizenship applications. Senior Minister Teo Chee Hean noted that 15% of PRs have held status for 20 or more years, with most originating from Southeast Asian countries. He explained that citizenship is encouraged by ensuring citizens are well-supported through differentiated benefits in housing, healthcare, and education. Senior Minister Teo Chee Hean emphasized that maintaining an inclusive and welcoming society is essential for encouraging PRs to make a permanent commitment.
Transcript
2 Mr Pritam Singh asked the Prime Minister (a) how does the Ministry persuade Permanent Residents (PRs) to take up Singapore citizenship; (b) how many PRs have held on to their PR status for more than 10, 15, 20 and 25 years respectively and by nationality; and (c) what are the common reasons cited by these individuals for not taking up Singapore citizenship.
Mr Teo Chee Hean (for the Prime Minister): About 15% of Permanent Residents (PRs) have been PRs for 20 or more years. The majority of such PRs originate from Southeast Asian countries.
Taking up citizenship is a serious commitment which is ultimately a personal decision. The vast majority of adult new citizens who have made this commitment to become citizens have lived here for some time, or have family ties to Singaporeans, such as spouses.
PRs contribute to Singapore in many different ways and add to our strengths as a society and economy.
The best way to encourage qualified PRs who have decided to make their future here to consider applying for citizenship is to continue to ensure that our Singapore Citizens are well looked after in a Singapore that continues to do well. To reflect the responsibilities and privileges of citizenship and to acknowledge Singapore Citizens' commitment to Singapore, citizens receive more support and benefits than PRs in several areas, such as parenthood, housing, healthcare and education.
In recent years, we have widened the differentiation in benefits accorded to Singapore Citizens and PRs.
It is also important that we continue to be an inclusive 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.