Congratulations on becoming a Singapore Permanent Resident!

Now that you have obtained your permanent residency, it’s important to understand the responsibilities that come with this new status. One key requirement is your Re-Entry Permit (REP) – a crucial document that allows you to retain your PR status while travelling abroad.

Why the Re-Entry Permit Matters

While your Singapore PR status is permanent, your REP is not. This permit is usually valid for five years and must be renewed periodically. If you leave Singapore or remain overseas without a valid REP, you risk losing your PR status.

If you change a new passport of the same nationality, you will need to update your new passport details in your REP promptly using the transfer of REP function. Please note that the checkpoint may only accord you clearance as a PR if you have a valid REP with the updated passport details at the point of entry. If your REP is not in order, please inform the immigration officer of your PR status.

What Is a Re-Entry Permit (REP)?

A REP is a permit issued to Singapore PRs that allows them to leave and re-enter the country while maintaining their PR status. If you are overseas and your REP expires, your PR status may be revoked, and you could be required to apply for PR all over again upon your return.

How to Renew Your Re-Entry Permit

Using the E-Service:

Renewing REP is a straightforward online process via the ICA’s e-service portal. Be sure to submit your renewal application at least three months before your REP expires – even if you don’t currently plan to travel. This avoids complications in case of urgent travel.

Applying from Overseas:

If you’re not in Singapore during renewal:

• Use your SingPass account to access the e-services;
• Or, submit your application through the nearest Singapore Overseas Mission. It must be submitted at least two months before your current Re-Entry Permit expires.

Eligibility and Required Documents

To renew or apply for a REP, you must:

• Be a Singapore PR;
• Hold a valid travel document (passport) with at least three months’ validity.

Information Required:

Please have the following information ready when submitting the renewal of REP application:

Applicant’s Identity Card Number (UIN)

Applicant’s valid travel document (with at least 3 months’ validity)

Applicant’s spouse Identity Card Number (UIN), if applicable

Applicant’s employment details (company name, address, position held and monthly salary), if applicable

Applicant’s highest academic qualification attained and country where the qualification was attained, if applicable

Visa or Master/Debit Card, American Express Card or Internet Banking Details

Fees

A S$10 fee is payable for every year, or part thereof, of your approved Re-Entry Permit (REP).

A separate fee is chargeable for each REP issued.

The new REP is not an extension of the previous permit. The validity period begins from the date of issuance, after successful payment for the REP application.

Processing Time

The general processing time for Re-Entry Permit application (REP) is within one week (excluding the day of submission). Please note that some applications may take longer to process.

If you have applied for an REP online, you can check the outcome of your application using e-Service. If you have provided an email address during the application process, you will be notified of the outcome by email.

Renewal Is Not Always Guaranteed

Keep in mind that ICA assesses REP renewals on a case-by-case basis. Applications may be rejected for various reasons, including prolonged periods spent overseas. In some cases, ICA may issue a REP with a shorter validity than the standard five years.

Final Thoughts

As a Singapore PR, it’s essential to stay informed and proactive when it comes to your Re-Entry Permit. Regularly monitor its validity and renew it ahead of time to avoid any disruptions to your residency status.

If you’re still in the process of applying for PR or have just received approval, understanding the REP requirements early can save you from unnecessary complications down the road.

Need help with your PR journey? The Singapore Prime Immigration team is here to support you every step of the way. Contact us today to learn how we can help maximize your chances of success.