The government of Singapore has announced plans to grant up to 40,000 permanent residency permits annually over the next five years as part of efforts to manage demographic changes and meet long-term labour needs.
The announcement was made by Gan Kim Yong during the Budget 2026 Committee of Supply debate in Parliament, according to reports.
He said, “We estimate an intake of about 40,000 PRs annually in the next five years, slightly higher than the 35,000 PRs we granted last year.”
He added that immigration policies would continue to be carefully adjusted in line with population trends and national needs.
Gan also stressed the importance of maintaining a stable citizen base, stating, “We must maintain a stable citizen core, hopefully one that is growing modestly over time, to keep our society and our economy dynamic and vibrant.”
He noted that the country’s permanent resident population has remained steady at about 540,000 in recent years, and that PR status continues to serve as a pathway to citizenship.
In addition, the government expects to approve between 25,000 and 30,000 new citizens annually over the same period, depending on fertility rates and demographic shifts.
He further explained, “We will also have to adjust our PR intake, as permanent residence is the pathway to work towards citizenship,” adding that yearly approvals will depend on applicant suitability, demographic needs, and infrastructure capacity.
The policy reflects Singapore’s ongoing effort to balance economic growth with an ageing population and persistently low birth rates.
A full review of the country’s population strategy is expected by 2030 as policymakers assess long-term labour and demographic challenges.