Singapore Introduces 180-Day Re-Entry Permit Renewal Rule For Permanent Residents

Starting December 1, 2025, Singapore will introduce tighter immigration requirements for permanent residents (PRs). Under the new rules, PRs will have 180 days to renew their re-entry permits (REP). Failure to do so within this period will result in the automatic loss of their residency status.

This marks a significant change in how Singapore manages its permanent residency system, particularly for residents who spend extended periods abroad for work or other reasons. Currently, PRs whose REPs expire are given a one-month grace period, and authorities may sometimes exercise discretion to restore lapsed status. This flexibility will end under the new regulation.

From December 2025 onwards, PRs abroad when their REP expires will need to submit a renewal application within 180 days. Missing this deadline will lead to the immediate revocation of their PR status, with no option for reinstatement or appeal. Individuals who lose their PR status will need to reapply from scratch or secure a valid work pass to return to Singapore.

Implications of the Change

The update is part of broader amendments to the Immigration (Amendment) Act, passed in 2023, which aim to tighten long-term residency rules and ensure that PRs maintain active ties to Singapore.

This change will particularly affect Singapore’s global workforce and residents frequently stationed overseas. PRs working for multinational corporations or on foreign assignments may face complications if they fail to renew their REPs on time.

Losing PR status carries significant consequences, including the loss of public housing eligibility, health subsidies, and simplified re-entry privileges. It also means undergoing the PR application process again, which can be lengthy and subject to stricter approval criteria.

Understanding the 180-Day Renewal Window

PRs who submit renewal applications within 180 days will retain their residency status while their REP is being processed, even if they are abroad. Applications submitted after 180 days will be rejected. Affected individuals may still be granted one-time entry to Singapore through a Single-Entry Pass, provided they meet standard entry requirements. After that, they must either apply for a work pass or start the PR process anew.

Recommendations for PRs

With the December 2025 deadline approaching, the Immigration and Checkpoints Authority (ICA) advises PRs to:

Check REP expiry dates before making long-term travel plans.
Renew early if living or working overseas.
Stay updated via ICA’s official channels.

This stricter framework reflects Singapore’s effort to strengthen its PR system and ensure that permanent residents maintain a genuine and ongoing connection to the country.