Singapore to Increase Permanent Resident Intake to About 40,000 a Year

SINGAPORE: The Government plans to raise the number of permanent residents (PRs) admitted each year to about 40,000 over the next five years, Deputy Prime Minister Gan Kim Yong said in Parliament on Friday.

The increase from the current level of around 35,000 PR approvals annually is part of Singapore’s broader population planning framework, which aims to address long-term demographic and workforce needs as the country prepares for an ageing population and slower natural population growth.

Mr Gan said the Government will continue to prioritise maintaining a strong and stable citizen core, while using immigration and PR admissions as complementary measures to sustain the overall resident population and support economic and social development.

“The number of new permanent residents is expected to increase to about 40,000 a year over the next five years,” he said during the debate on the Budget for the Prime Minister’s Office, adding that the approach reflects careful long-term planning rather than short-term adjustments.

In addition, Singapore is expected to grant citizenship to about 25,000 to 30,000 people each year, depending on how population trends evolve over time. Together, the PR and citizenship pathways are intended to strengthen the resident population base, ensure sufficient renewal of the workforce, and provide greater continuity for key sectors of the economy.

Permanent residency remains an important pathway for foreigners who wish to settle in Singapore over the long term, particularly professionals, skilled workers and families who have established strong economic and social ties to the country. For some, PR status also serves as a stepping stone towards eventual citizenship and deeper integration into Singaporean society.

The higher PR intake reflects an adjustment aimed at ensuring adequate population renewal and workforce continuity, while maintaining social cohesion and stability. Mr Gan said the Government will continue to be selective in granting PR status, with the increase forming part of a calibrated and measured population strategy over the medium term.