Beyond the Honeymoon: Choosing between LTVP or PR for Residency Options for Spouses of Singapore PR
Choosing the right residency option for yourself depends on your individual needs and goals. This article compares the Long-Term Visit Pass (LTVP) and Singapore Permanent Residency for spouses of existing PR holders.
Decision Framework for LTVP vs PR:
Long Term Visit Pass (LTVP)
Pros:
Faster Application: Easier and quicker application process compared to PR. On average around 4 weeks.
Flexibility: Allows extended stay in Singapore with renewals from 6 months onwards.
Work Option: You can apply for an LOC to work in Singapore.
Cons:
Limited Benefits: LTVP holders don't enjoy the same benefits as PRs, such as subsidies and social programs.
Renewal Requirements: You need to renew the LTVP periodically.
Permanent Residency (PR)
Pros:
Stability: Provides greater long-term residency and stability in Singapore.
Extensive Benefits: PRs have access to various social benefits like healthcare subsidies, lower school fees for children at public schools (see appendix 1), eligibility to purchase re-sale public housing (HDB flats), stay for extended period (up to end of the Re-entry Permit) to search for employment, and can contribute to the Central Provident Fund (CPF) retirement savings scheme.
Pathway to Citizenship: PR can be a stepping stone to applying for Singapore citizenship in the future.
Cons:
Stringent Application: The PR application process is more complex and requires meeting specific criteria. Approval can be more challenging and take on average between 6-12 months to receive an outcome.
National Service (NS) Liability: Male children of PRs may be subject to NS obligations when they reach adulthood.
Choosing the Right Option for You
Immediate Needs: If you need to be in Singapore quickly, the LTVP might be the better short-term option.
Long-Term Plans: If you plan to settle in Singapore for the long term and enjoy more benefits, applying for PR is more advantageous.
Eligibility and Preparedness: Consider your eligibility for PR and preparedness for the application process, which requires detailed documentation and can take time.
Example:
John and Mary, a married couple, recently moved to Singapore when John received a job offer. Mary, as John's spouse, initially applied for an LTVP due to the faster processing time. However, after settling in and enjoying life in Singapore, they decided on a long-term stay. John and Mary are now preparing their application for Singapore PR to access the wider range of benefits and opportunities Singapore offers.
Navigating the complexities of immigration processes in Singapore can be challenging. E&H Immigration Consultancy, a trusted PR application agency Singapore, can guide you to apply LTVP or PR application process for spouses of PR holders.
Our experienced consultants can:
Help you determine the best residency option for your individual needs and goals.
Assist you with gathering required documentation and completing the application process.
Offer ongoing support and answer your questions throughout the application journey.
Don't navigate Singapore's immigration system alone! Contact E&H Immigration Consultancy today for a free consultation and discuss your residency options.
Appendix 1: Public school fees for International Students (IS) and students on PR
Source: Singapore Ministry of Education and CNA School fees to increase for PRs, international students for next 3 years, no change for Singaporeans: MOE - CNA (channelnewsasia.com)
Original Source: https://bit.ly/4bSaEAT