Due to the similar conditions of immigrant groups, the Immigration and Checkpoints Authority of Singapore has categorized the following fees based on different groups to choose suitable immigration options.
The first option is to invest S$100 thousand to establish a business in Singapore;
The second option is to invest S$150 thousand to establish a business and investment fund, which is suitable for high-net-worth entrepreneurs whose business focus is in China;
The third option, compared to the second, allows for investment in real estate (with a maximum real estate investment of S$100 thousand), with a total investment amount of S$200 thousand. This investment is suitable for high-net-worth entrepreneurs who wish to invest in real estate or reside in Singapore.
The fourth option is to invest S$500 thousand in financial products and real estate (with a maximum of S$200 thousand). This option is suitable for individuals with substantial assets, allowing applicants to quickly obtain permanent residency without an interview.
Individuals from China tend to prefer the second and third options for investment immigration to Singapore, with the majority opting for the second option. The main goal of applicants choosing the S$150 thousand option is to achieve "immigration without relocation," obtaining Singaporean identity and benefits while residing in China without disrupting business, as Singapore does not impose residency restrictions like Canada or Australia.
In contrast to the second option, individuals choosing the third investment option primarily aim for "relocation," intending to settle in Singapore or invest in Singaporean real estate. The S$200 thousand option is suitable for entrepreneurs genuinely wishing to reside in Singapore, as the properties purchased by investors in Singapore must be completed buildings and must be mortgaged to the government during the investment period,5 years cannot be traded or leased. Therefore, investors should choose the investment category based on their needs.
The new regulations emphasize that "applicants must meet the condition of S$1000 thousand"—does Singapore's investment immigration only favor the wealthy?
The new regulations select entrepreneurs based on high criteria.
Singapore attracts investors to immigrate with its "low tax system, safety, efficiency, comprehensive education system, and stable political environment"; however, not everyone meets the application criteria for investment immigration to Singapore. In the immigration industry, it is viewed that due to the high threshold, immigration policies are clearly biased towards attracting the wealthy class, not just business elites.
Previously, the requirements for investment immigration to Singapore were quite simple, without clearly defined criteria, but this new regulation has explicitly outlined these requirements in writing. Notably, a new clause has been added regarding the main revenue limits of the applicant's business, indicating that with the increase of Chinese investors, the Singapore government clearly hopes to further select outstanding entrepreneurs by raising the criteria.
