News

Singapore is sharpening its competitive edge in the global investment migration arena with the Global Investor Program (GIP), administered by the Singapore Economic Development Board (EDB). The GIP targets entrepreneurs, business leaders, and family office principals with proven commercial success, offering a direct route to Singapore permanent residency (PR). Unlike similar initiatives in other countries, GIP stands out by assessing both financial strength and entrepreneurial achievement, perfectly aligning with Singapore’s meritocratic values.

Key Advantages of the GIP

Between 2020 and 2022, the GIP enabled an average of 60 investors per year to secure Singapore PR. The program’s main advantages include:

• Swift Pathway to PR: The GIP provides the fastest route to obtaining Singapore permanent residency.

• Tax Efficiency: With no inheritance tax, Singapore’s tax regime is ideal for wealth management and succession planning.

• Government Support: Backed by strong legislative frameworks, the GIP offers extra security for participants.

• Family Inclusion: A single application can cover three generations, and children gain access to Singapore’s top public schools.

• Global Asset Allocation: The GIP is not just about residency—it also enables international diversification of assets.

Who Qualifies? Four Target Groups

The GIP is open to four types of high-achieving individuals:

1. Established Business Owners:At least three years of entrepreneurial experience.
   Annual company turnover of at least SGD 200 million (~USD 150 million) for the latest year and average of the last three years.
   Must own at least 30% equity in a private firm or be a major shareholder in a listed company, operating in EDB-designated sectors.

2. Next-Generation Business Owners:Direct family members (e.g., parents) must hold at least 30% or be the largest shareholder in the company.
   Company turnover of at least SGD 500 million (~USD 375 million) annually.
   The applicant must be in a senior management or board role.

3. Founders of Fast-Growth Companies:Founder and major shareholder of an unlisted company valued at SGD 500 million or more.
   Backed by reputable VC or PE investors.
   Company must operate in EDB-specified sectors.

4. Family Office Principals:At least five years of experience in entrepreneurship, investment, or management.
   Minimum SGD 200 million in net investable assets (excluding real estate), certified by a recognized institution.
   

Investment Options: Three Routes to PR

Applicants can choose the investment model that fits their profile and ambitions:

• Option A: Business Investment
  Invest at least SGD 10 million in a new or existing company in Singapore, submit a detailed business plan, and hold at least 30% equity in a senior executive role.

• Option B: Fund Investment
  Invest at least SGD 25 million in an EDB-approved GIP fund, with investment plans submitted and executed within six months of in-principle approval.

• Option C: Family Office Investment
  Invest at least SGD 50 million to set up a Single Family Office (SFO) in Singapore, managing at least SGD 200 million. Detailed asset management and investment strategies are required, with the investment completed within a year of final approval.

Policy Updates and Growing Demand

Recent changes to the GIP have tightened requirements for family office investments, mandating at least SGD 50 million in Singapore Exchange-listed equities. This aims to channel more capital directly into Singapore’s economy. Despite the stricter rules, application numbers have surged 2–3 times, reflecting sustained demand for Singapore’s elite residency.

Application Process: Rigorous but Rewarding

1. Submit Documents: Including personal, financial, and business information, plus a non-refundable SGD 10,000 fee.

2. Background Check & Interview: EDB reviews the applicant’s background, business plans, and contribution potential.

3. In-Principle Approval (AIP): Successful applicants receive a six-month AIP to fulfill investment commitments.

4. Fulfill Investment: Complete the chosen investment and provide proof within the AIP period.

5. Final Approval: After investment verification, applicants receive PR approval.

6. Collect PR Card: Applicants have 12 months to collect their Residency card and re-entry permit.

Why This Matters

Singapore’s GIP is designed not just to attract financial capital, but to ensure new residents are genuinely invested in the local economy and community. The renewal system incentivizes long-term commitment and integration.

Professional Guidance Recommended

Specialist migration advisors like Worlgo offer end-to-end support, from project selection and business planning to risk management and settling in Singapore, ensuring applicants maximize their investment and migration success.