For high-net-worth investors, there is a direct route to Singapore PR that does not depend on a job or a work pass: the Global Investor Programme (GIP), run by the Economic Development Board (EDB). It grants Permanent Residence to investors who commit substantial capital to Singapore. This guide sets out the GIP requirements for 2026, the three investment options, and how it compares to the standard PR route.
Quick answer: Singapore PR by investment is granted through the Global Investor Programme (GIP). You qualify by investing at least S$10 million in a business (Option A), S$25 million in a GIP-select fund (Option B), or by running a single family office with at least S$200 million in net investible assets (Option C). Applicants need a strong business or investment track record, the application fee is S$20,000, and EDB favours investors who build a genuine, substantive presence in Singapore. Spouses and unmarried children under 21 can be included.
What is PR by investment?
The Global Investor Programme is Singapore’s investment route to Permanent Residence. Unlike the standard PTS route (for working professionals) or family routes, the GIP is aimed at established business owners and investors willing to deploy significant capital into the Singapore economy. It is administered by the EDB, not ICA, and is designed to attract entrepreneurs and investors who will contribute to growth and jobs.
This is a route for a specific profile. It is not a way to “buy” PR cheaply; the thresholds are high and the assessment focuses on genuine economic contribution.
The three investment options
You qualify through one of three routes.
| Option | What you invest | Best for |
| A: Business investment | At least S$10 million in a new or existing Singapore business | Entrepreneurs who will run a business here |
| B: GIP-select fund | At least S$25 million in an approved fund investing in Singapore companies | Investors preferring a more passive commitment |
| C: Single family office | Net investible assets of at least S$200 million, and a family office with at least S$50 million in assets under management | Ultra-high-net-worth family principals |
Option A requires the business to operate in one of the industries EDB lists (spanning sectors such as aerospace, healthcare, energy, electronics, professional services, and family office and financial services). Option B is more passive operationally but carries a higher capital commitment. Option C suits family principals establishing a substantial family office in Singapore.
Figures reflect the current 2026 GIP framework and can change. Always confirm the latest thresholds in the EDB GIP factsheet before applying.
Eligibility: more than just capital
Capital alone is not enough. EDB looks for a genuine investor with a strong track record.
- Business track record. Option A applicants generally need a substantial entrepreneurial and business history, including a company with annual turnover of at least S$200 million in the year before applying and an average of at least S$200 million a year over the preceding three years.
- A credible plan. You need a concrete investment or business plan showing real activity, jobs, and contribution to Singapore.
- Genuine involvement. EDB favours applicants who will be actively involved in managing and growing their interests here, not those setting up passive structures purely for the pass.
Family, fees, and process
- Family inclusion. You can include your spouse and unmarried children under 21 in the application.
- Application fee. S$20,000, non-refundable.
- Process. You submit a detailed application and investment plan to EDB, attend an interview, and, if approved in principle, make the qualifying investment before your PR is finalised. GIP PR comes with its own Re-Entry Permit conditions tied to maintaining the investment.
Because the sums and scrutiny are high, most GIP applicants work with professional advisers to structure the investment and application.
GIP vs the standard PR route
The GIP is not the right route for most people. It is worth comparing honestly.
| Standard PR (PTS route) | PR by investment (GIP) | |
| Who it is for | Working professionals on an EP or S Pass | High-net-worth investors and entrepreneurs |
| Basis | Employment, contribution, integration | Substantial capital investment |
| Cost | S$100 application fee | S$10m+ investment, S$20,000 fee |
| Administered by | ICA | EDB |
If you are a working professional rather than an investor, the standard route is almost certainly yours. See our guide on how to apply for Singapore PR, and if you run your own company on a smaller scale, our guide on the self-employed EP route to PR.
Common mistakes
- Treating GIP as buying PR. EDB assesses genuine contribution, not just capital.
- Passive structures. Recent approvals favour investors building a real, active presence.
- Underestimating the track record needed. Option A in particular expects a serious business history.
- Weak investment plans. A vague plan without real jobs or activity does not persuade EDB.
How First Immigration can help
PR by investment is a high-stakes, specialised route, and choosing between GIP and the standard path matters. First Immigration helps you:
- Assess whether GIP or the standard PR route fits your profile.
- Understand the current thresholds and what EDB expects.
- Plan the strongest possible application, whichever route you take.
For the benefits that follow once you hold PR, see our guide on Singapore PR benefits, or speak to our consultants through the contact page.
Frequently asked questions
Can I get Singapore PR by investment?
Yes, through the Global Investor Programme (GIP), run by the EDB. It grants PR to investors who commit substantial capital to Singapore under one of three options.
How much do I need to invest for Singapore PR?
At least S$10 million in a business (Option A), S$25 million in a GIP-select fund (Option B), or a single family office with at least S$200 million in net investible assets and S$50 million in assets under management (Option C).
Who runs the Global Investor Programme?
The Economic Development Board (EDB), not ICA. GIP is Singapore’s official investment route to PR.
What track record do I need for the GIP?
Option A applicants generally need a substantial business history, including a company with annual turnover of at least S$200 million recently and averaged over the past three years.
Can my family be included in a GIP application?
Yes. Your spouse and unmarried children under 21 can be included.
How much is the GIP application fee?
S$20,000, non-refundable, in addition to the qualifying investment.
Is GIP just buying PR?
No. EDB assesses genuine economic contribution and favours investors who build a real, active presence, not passive structures set up only to obtain PR.
Should I use GIP or the standard PR route?
GIP suits high-net-worth investors and entrepreneurs. Working professionals should use the standard PTS route, which is far less costly and based on employment and contribution.
