Singapore PRs Get 180 Days to Renew Re-Entry Permits Under New Rule

Starting December 1, 2025, Singapore will introduce stricter rules for permanent residents (PRs) who live or travel abroad. The change centres on the re-entry permit (REP), a key document that allows PRs to return to Singapore and maintain their residency status.

New Rules for Permanent Residents

Under the new rule, PRs outside Singapore without a valid re-entry permit will have 180 days to apply for a new one. If they fail to do so within that window, their permanent residence status will be automatically revoked.

Right now, the law gives a one-month grace period after the permit expires, and authorities sometimes exercise discretion in reinstating PR status for late applicants. But that leniency will end once the new rule takes effect. From December 2025 onward, there will be no reinstatement process for lapsed PR status.

Why It Matters

For permanent residents who travel frequently or live abroad for work, this rule is significant. Losing PR status means starting from scratch; they would have to reapply for permanent residence or secure a company-sponsored work pass, both of which can take months.

In short, if you’re a PR planning to be outside Singapore for an extended period, you’ll need to renew or apply for your re-entry permit before leaving the country to avoid complications.

What Happens If You Miss the 180-Day Window

If a PR doesn’t renew their permit within 180 days, their status will lapse. However, they’ll still be able to enter Singapore once using a Single-Entry Pass issued at the checkpoint, provided they meet other entry requirements.

After that, they’ll need to go through a full PR or work pass application process if they wish to live or work in Singapore again.

How Applications Will Be Treated

• Filed within 180 days: The individual will be considered a PR while the application is pending, even if they’re outside Singapore without a valid REP.
• Filed after 180 days or denied: The individual will lose PR status and must reapply from scratch.

The Bigger Picture

The Immigration (Amendment) Act, passed in 2023, introduced this update to tighten the framework for long-term residency and ensure that permanent residency aligns with continued ties and active engagement in Singapore.

What PRs Should Do Now

If you’re a Singapore PR, take this as a reminder to:

• Check your REP validity before you travel.
• Renew early, especially if you’re living or working overseas.
• Monitor official updates from the Immigration & Checkpoints Authority (ICA) as the new rules approach.

Singapore’s immigration authority will update entry permit conditions for all permanent residents on December 1, 2025, when the new framework officially takes effect.