Searching for how to get a Singapore passport? There is one thing to know first: only Singapore citizens can hold one. A PR cannot get a Singapore passport; they keep their foreign passport. So the real route to a Singapore passport runs through citizenship. This guide explains the path, from Singapore PR to citizenship to the passport itself, and how to apply for the passport once you qualify.
Quick answer: Only Singapore citizens can hold a Singapore passport. To get one you must first become a citizen (usually PR for at least two years, then citizenship, which requires renouncing your other nationality). Once you are a citizen, you apply for the passport online through ICA’s APPLES e-Service with Singpass. It costs S$70 online, is valid 10 years for adults (5 years for under-16s), and arrives in about two weeks.
You must be a citizen first
This is the key point. The Singapore passport is only for citizens. Permanent Residents, however long they have lived here, do not get one; they travel on their home-country passport with a valid Re-Entry Permit. So “how to get a Singapore passport” is really “how to become a Singapore citizen”.
The path to a Singapore passport
For most people, it is a three-step journey:
- Become a Permanent Resident. Usually through the PTS scheme as an EP or S Pass holder. See our guide on how to apply for Singapore PR.
- Apply for citizenship. Generally after holding PR for at least two years. You must renounce your other citizenship, since Singapore does not allow dual citizenship. See our guide on Singapore citizenship requirements.
- Apply for the passport. Once you are a citizen, you can apply for the Singapore passport.
There is no shortcut that skips citizenship.
How to apply for the passport (once you are a citizen)
New citizens apply for their first passport around the time of the citizenship ceremony. To apply or later renew:
- Apply online through ICA’s APPLES (Application for Passport On-Line Electronic System) e-Service, logging in with Singpass.
- Fee: S$70 online (S$80 over the counter).
- Processing: about two weeks.
- Collection: at the ICA Building or a designated collection point.
| Detail | Singapore passport |
| Who can hold it | Singapore citizens only |
| Validity (age 16+) | 10 years |
| Validity (under 16) | 5 years |
| Cost | S$70 online / S$80 counter |
| Apply via | ICA APPLES e-Service with Singpass |
| Processing | About 2 weeks |
Why the Singapore passport is worth it
The Singapore passport is consistently ranked among the most powerful in the world, with visa-free or visa-on-arrival access to well over 180 countries and territories. Along with the vote and the strongest subsidies, it is one of the main reasons long-term residents take up citizenship. See our guide on Singapore citizenship benefits.
The trade-off: giving up your current passport
Because Singapore does not allow dual citizenship for adults, getting a Singapore passport means renouncing your existing one. This is a firm, largely permanent decision, so weigh it carefully. Our guide on whether Singapore allows dual citizenship explains the rule, and for Indian nationals, the OCI option is covered in our guide on Singapore citizenship for Indians.
Can a PR get a Singapore passport?
No. A PR is not a citizen and cannot hold a Singapore passport. PRs keep their foreign passport and use a Re-Entry Permit to travel and maintain PR status. To get the passport, a PR must first become a citizen.
How First Immigration can help
The passport is the easy final step; becoming a citizen is the real work. First Immigration helps you:
- Plan the path from PR to citizenship, and the right time to apply.
- Prepare a strong citizenship application.
- Understand the renunciation implications before you commit.
Explore our Singapore citizenship service, or speak to our consultants through the contact page.
Frequently asked questions
How do I get a Singapore passport?
You must first become a Singapore citizen (usually PR for at least two years, then citizenship). Once a citizen, you apply for the passport online through ICA’s APPLES e-Service with Singpass.
Can a PR get a Singapore passport?
No. Only citizens can hold a Singapore passport. PRs keep their foreign passport and travel with a Re-Entry Permit.
How much does a Singapore passport cost?
S$70 if you apply online, or S$80 over the counter.
How long is a Singapore passport valid?
Ten years for applicants aged 16 and above, and five years for those under 16.
How long does it take to get a Singapore passport?
About two weeks after a successful application.
Do I have to give up my current passport?
Yes. Singapore does not allow dual citizenship for adults, so becoming a citizen (and getting the passport) requires renouncing your other nationality.
How strong is the Singapore passport?
It is consistently among the most powerful in the world, with visa-free or visa-on-arrival access to well over 180 countries.
How long from PR to a Singapore passport?
You generally need at least two years as a PR before applying for citizenship; the citizenship process then takes around 12 to 24 months, after which you can apply for the passport.
