Singapore to admit 40,000 permanent residents annually for five years
admin
The government of Singapore has announced plans to admit up to 40,000 permanent residents annually over the next five years as it adjusts its population strategy to address slowing growth and long-term workforce needs.
The announcement was made by Gan Kim Yong during the Budget 2026 Committee of Supply debate in Parliament, according to reports cited by PUNCH Online on Monday.
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 policy will continue to be carefully calibrated based on demographic conditions.
He further said, “We will also have to adjust our PR intake, as permanent residence is the pathway to work towards citizenship,” adding that intake levels will vary yearly based on applicant suitability, demographic needs, and infrastructure capacity.
The government’s approach reflects a balancing act for Singapore as it seeks to sustain economic growth while managing a rapidly ageing population and persistently low birth rates.
A review of the population strategy is expected by 2030, as policymakers assess longer-term demographic and labour market conditions.
