Persons Renouncing Permanent Resident Status and Singapore Citizenship Pre- or Post-National Service

4 Mr Leong Mun Wai asked the Minister for Defence for each year since 2014 (a) how many second-generation permanent residents (PRs) renounced their PR status before serving National Service (NS); and (b) how many new citizens or PRs renounced their Singapore citizenship or declined offers for Singapore citizenship after having completed their full-time NS obligations.

Dr Ng Eng Hen: Between 2014 and 2023, an average of 450 male second-generation Permanent Residents (PRs) each year renounced their PR status before serving full-time National Service (NS). In comparison, over the same period, an average of 1,900 male second-generation PRs enlisted for full-time NS each year. Those who renounce or lose their PR status without completing full-time NS have been cautioned that they face serious adverse consequences when they subsequently apply for any long-term immigration facilities to live, work or study in Singapore.

PRs who have completed their full-time NS and apply for Singapore Citizenship are assessed favourably, if they meet other relevant criteria. Between 2014 and 2023, an average of about 140 new citizens who had completed full-time NS renounced their Singapore Citizenship each year. Amongst this group, 96% renounced their citizenship at the age of 40 or older, when most would no longer be liable for NS duties under the Enlistment Act.