Singapore permanent residency intake increase announced as government plans up to 40,000 PRs annually to address workforce and demographic needs

The government of Singapore has announced plans to admit up to 40,000 permanent residents annually over the next five years as part of a revised population strategy aimed at addressing slowing growth and long-term workforce needs.

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The announcement was made by Deputy Prime Minister Gan Kim Yong during the Budget 2026 Committee of Supply debate in Parliament.

Gan said the revised intake reflects Singapore’s demographic realities and the need to sustain a stable and productive workforce amid an ageing population and low birth rates.

He stated that the annual intake of permanent residents is expected to rise slightly from about 35,000 granted last year to around 40,000 in the coming years.

According to him, immigration policy will continue to be carefully managed in line with economic conditions, infrastructure capacity and population trends.

Gan emphasised the importance of maintaining a stable citizen core, noting that Singapore aims to ensure modest population growth to support economic dynamism and social stability.

He added that the country’s permanent resident population has remained steady at around 540,000 in recent years, with PR status serving as a key pathway to citizenship.

The government also expects to grant between 25,000 and 30,000 new citizenships annually over the next five years, depending on fertility rates and broader demographic shifts.

Officials said the approach reflects a careful balancing act between sustaining economic growth and managing long-term demographic pressures.

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A full review of Singapore’s population strategy is expected by 2030 as policymakers assess future labour market and social needs.