The Perks of Being a Singapore Permanent Resident Compared to a Work Permit Holder

Singapore is one of Asia’s most desirable places to live and work, thanks to its world-class infrastructure, strong economy, political stability, and high quality of life. Every year, thousands of foreigners move to Singapore on various types of work passes. Among them, Work Permit (WP) holders and Permanent Residents (PRs) represent two very different categories of residents in terms of privileges, lifestyle, and long-term opportunities.

While a Work Permit allows foreign workers to live and work in Singapore temporarily, attaining Permanent Resident status opens the door to a host of benefits and rights that bring stability, flexibility, and a sense of belonging. In this blog post, we’ll explore the key perks of being a PR in Singapore and how it compares to being a Work Permit holder.

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1. Stability of Residency

Work Permit Holder:
Work Permits are typically issued to semi-skilled or unskilled foreign workers in sectors like construction, manufacturing, marine, and services. These permits are valid for up to 2 years and are tied to the sponsoring employer. If the employment ends, the Work Permit is canceled, and the individual must leave Singapore.

Permanent Resident:
PRs enjoy the freedom to live and work in Singapore without being tied to a specific employer. They can stay in the country indefinitely, and although their PR status needs to be renewed every 5 or 10 years via a Re-Entry Permit (REP), it provides long-term residency and security.

Perk: Greater stability and peace of mind to plan for the future, raise a family, or invest in a long-term career.

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2. Employment Flexibility

Work Permit Holder:
WP holders can only work for the employer specified in their permit. Changing jobs requires prior approval, and there's limited flexibility to shift industries or upgrade skills outside of what is approved.

Permanent Resident:
PRs are free to change jobs, switch industries, start a business, or pursue entrepreneurship without needing a new work pass. They have the same employment rights as Singapore Citizens (except for certain government roles).

Perk: More career mobility and freedom to explore better job opportunities.

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3. Family Privileges

Work Permit Holder:
WP holders are not eligible to bring their spouse or children to live in Singapore unless under special exemptions. There is no Dependant Pass (DP) or Long-Term Visit Pass (LTVP) entitlement for family members.

Permanent Resident:
PRs can sponsor their spouse and unmarried children under 21 for PR status. This allows the family to stay together in Singapore, access public services, and benefit from the same long-term residency perks.

Perk: Stronger family support and ability to build a life together in Singapore.

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4. Access to Public Healthcare

Work Permit Holder:
While employers must provide basic medical insurance for WP holders, access to subsidized public healthcare is limited. Any serious medical treatments can be expensive if not covered by insurance.

Permanent Resident:
PRs enjoy subsidized medical services at public hospitals and polyclinics, almost on par with citizens. They are also eligible for national healthcare schemes like MediShield Life and CPF-funded MediSave accounts.

Perk: Affordable and reliable access to quality healthcare services.

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5. Education Benefits for Children

Work Permit Holder:
Children of WP holders do not have guaranteed access to public schools in Singapore. If they are allowed, they are typically considered low priority and pay higher fees compared to citizens and PRs.

Permanent Resident:
PR children can apply to enter public schools and are given higher priority over foreign students. They also enjoy subsidized school fees and access to government educational schemes.

Perk: Better access to Singapore’s top-tier public education system.

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6. Eligibility for HDB Public Housing

Work Permit Holder:
WP holders are not allowed to buy or rent HDB flats (apart from renting a room with permission in special cases). Their housing is usually employer-provided or private rental.

Permanent Resident:
After 3 years as a PR, one can apply to purchase a resale HDB flat with a PR spouse. PRs can also rent public housing and apply for certain housing grants, though not as extensive as citizens.

Perk: Pathway to affordable home ownership and stable housing.

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7. Central Provident Fund (CPF) Contributions

Work Permit Holder:
WP holders do not contribute to or receive CPF benefits. This means no access to CPF-supported healthcare, retirement savings, or housing schemes.

Permanent Resident:
PRs contribute to CPF just like Singapore Citizens. This enables them to save for retirement, use CPF for medical expenses, purchase housing, and invest under CPF Investment Schemes.

Perk: Stronger financial security and access to national saving schemes.

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8. Path to Citizenship

Work Permit Holder:
There is no direct pathway from a Work Permit to Singapore Citizenship. WP holders must first qualify for an S Pass or Employment Pass, gain PR, and then apply for citizenship.

Permanent Resident:
PR status is the gateway to applying for Singapore Citizenship after fulfilling residency and integration requirements. Citizenship unlocks full rights, including voting, full access to HDB flats, and more extensive government support.

Perk: Opportunity to become a full citizen with voting rights and national benefits.

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9. Greater Social Integration

Work Permit Holder:
Due to housing, language, and work separation, WP holders often live in dormitories and have limited integration with the local community.

Permanent Resident:
PRs live within the broader community and participate more fully in Singaporean life, through local events, community programs, and grassroots initiatives.

Perk: Enhanced sense of belonging and participation in local life.

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10. Entrepreneurial Freedom

Work Permit Holder:
WP holders are not allowed to run businesses in Singapore.

Permanent Resident:
PRs can set up and run their own businesses, apply for business grants, and participate in enterprise initiatives from government agencies such as Enterprise Singapore.

Perk: Ability to pursue entrepreneurship and create wealth in Singapore.

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Conclusion

Becoming a Permanent Resident in Singapore is a significant upgrade from holding a Work Permit. While WP holders play a vital role in supporting Singapore’s labor needs, the PR status offers individuals and their families a wide range of benefits – from career flexibility, housing opportunities, healthcare access, and education, to long-term financial planning and a stable future.

If you’re currently working in Singapore and envision building a life here, attaining PR status could be the gateway to realizing that dream. It not only improves your quality of life but also opens the door to eventual citizenship, allowing you to fully participate in and contribute to the nation’s vibrant future.

The Lew Blueprint: Achieving Financial Freedom & Retiring Early in Singapore with a Family of 6

 

By James Lew

Living in one of the world’s most expensive cities with a family of six isn't for the faint-hearted. Our 4-room HDB in the heartlands of Singapore is home—not just to memories and chaos—but to a dream: retiring early and financially free. I’ve walked this journey, stumbled many times, and picked up strategies that have transformed our family's life and outlook. Here’s my candid take on how we’re getting there—and how you can, too.

1. Define What Financial Freedom Means for You

Early in the journey, my wife and I sat down and mapped our true north. For us, financial freedom isn’t about luxury condos or big HDBs. It’s the ability to choose—whether it’s working less to spend time with our kids, or traveling during off-peak months without stressing over leave days.

We calculated a realistic number: how much we’d need monthly to sustain our lifestyle. This included utilities, groceries (our kids love cereal and yakult!), education, insurance, and the occasional prata supper. That figure became our target passive income. Our figure in 2025 is $3million generating a passive income of $200k/per year. So far we are only 20% of that figure in our journey.

2. Budget Ruthlessly, Spend Intentionally

I used to think budgeting was restrictive. Turns out, it gave us control. We switched to the 50-40-10 rule—with tweaks. Here's how it works for us:

• 50% Needs: Mortgage, food, insurance, transport, tuition.
• 40% Savings/Investments: This includes CPF top-ups (To get tax rebates and made the money work harder) , dividend portfolio (Singapore), and a modest stock portfolio (US index funds by Endowus) .
• 10% Wants: Family outings, bubble tea runs, even those last-minute Lazada buys.

Our Family do not have a car and it helps in reducing our expenses even more. We take private transportation and occasionally we do Grab if we are going to places.

3. Maximize Government Support (It’s There!)

There’s a surprising amount of support if you know where to look:

• Baby Bonus & CDA: Every bit helps when you’ve got 2 kids! We used CDA funds wisely—mostly for healthcare, vaccinations, and enrichment classes which we have used up as our 2 daughters are in primary school.
• U-Save & GST Vouchers & CDC Vouchers: These reduced our utility bills and gave breathing space.
• CPF Enhancements: We used cash top-ups for our Special Accounts to compound our future security which we have max out. Projected to be around $700k+ for both mi and my wife when we reach 55 years old after which we will go for enhance retirement sum and we will do a top up. My estimate is to have another $140k+ to top up so that at age 65 we will have a passive income stream of $8k per month which will amounts to $96k per year for life. This will form our baseline living. 

Learning to navigate these schemes gave us the edge. Every dollar saved was a dollar invested.

4. Turn Your HDB into a Financial Ally

Some people see their HDB as a place to live. I see ours as a quiet wealth-building machine. We didn’t over-renovate—just the essentials. That meant more cash flow to invest elsewhere.

We also plan to right-size eventually. Once the kids fly the nest, we’ll consider selling and moving to a smaller flat, unlocking equity to support our passive income. Property in Singapore may not make you rich overnight, but with long-term vision, it can anchor your retirement. As both mi and my wife got 2 chances to buy new hdb flat. We have used up 1 for our 4 room HDB. We have another chance as 2nd timer. We are planning to look out for HDB flat once we clear the mortgage by this year Oct 2025. From there we will monitor for HDB flats where every quarter there will be launches to see what are the available locations. My current flat estimate to sell @$700k+. By buying 2nd HDB and selling my current flat, we should have some funds left after selling and buying the 2nd HDB.

5. Invest—Even with a Modest Salary

The turning point for me was automating investments. I chose low-cost ETFs, and dabbled in US stocks via dollar-cost averaging. It wasn't glamorous, but it was steady. Robo-advisors like Endowus become my silent partner.

And yes, there were nerves. The 2020 dip during COVID shook us, but sticking to the plan paid off. Time in the market, not timing the market, became our mantra. Compared to the investment i did in mutual funds else where through insurance, i have more control and i'm not paying high percentage of fees. 

6. Side Hustles & Skills Stacking

With kids, time is precious—but I squeezed in weekend blogwriting which you are looking at it now: even reselling pre-loved items through Carousell. I'm still some way to having adsense on my blog but hey every baby will take me to my eventual goal for adsense on my blog. Eventually to momentise.

We focused on building marketable skills—I upskilled via SkillsFuture credits and learned basic coding. Every skill gained makes me more marketable. 

7. Teach Kids About Money Early

Raising money-smart kids eases the load. We gave each child a mini piggy bank and taught them to split money into spend, save, and share. Watching them grow into little savers made our sacrifices worth it.

We avoided over-indulging. Each child had a modest allowance and knew how to stretch a dollar. That way, when we said no to a new game console or designer kicks, they understood it wasn’t about stinginess—it was about goals.

8. Plan for Health & Insurance

One medical emergency can derail everything. We ensured each family member had MediShield Life coverage and added Integrated Shield Plans. It cost more, but gave peace of mind.

I also got term life insurance to cover my family if anything happened to me. It’s morbid to think about, but necessary. Financial freedom must be built on a foundation of resilience.

9. Track Progress, Celebrate Small Wins

Every few months, we revisit our spreadsheet, CPF dashboards, and investment apps. We track net worth growth—not to brag, but to stay motivated.

And we celebrate small wins. Reaching our first $100k net worth was huge. Even paying off a credit card bill felt like a champagne moment (well, teh peng will do).

10. Stay Grounded, Stay United

Ultimately, this journey is as emotional as it is financial. There were nights we argued over money, worried about the kids’ future, and felt behind. But being aligned as a couple made all the difference.

We remind each other why we're doing this: not just to quit jobs, but to buy back time—to watch our children grow, to care for our parents, to wake up without an alarm clock.

Holiday in Ipoh / Cameron / Penang

I just went for a holiday with my family in Malaysia. We fly to Ipoh and stayed 2 days follow by Cameron for 1 day and follow by 2 days in Penang. Total we stayed in Malaysia for 6 days. It was fun and we really enjoyed ourselves a lot. Here are the photos to show the places and sights with our family. I cannot wait to plan for the next trip.

Cost wise we spend about SGD $3.2k in total for 7 people. 

- $1k for the Air-Tickets by SCOOT. 

- $700 for hotel accomodation

- $600 for transportation (Grab Taxi, private transport tour)

- $900 for sightseeing / photos / food

Average out is about $457+ per person for 6 days which comes to about $76+ per day.

🏡 Does Buying Property in Singapore Still Make Sense in 2025?

Singapore’s property market has long been a favorite topic at dinner tables, hawker centres, and financial blogs. With real estate prices having surged over the past decade—and with cooling measures, higher interest rates, and an uncertain economy—many are asking:

“Does it still make sense to buy property in Singapore?”

Whether you’re a first-time homebuyer, seasoned investor, or considering upgrading, this article dives into the current property landscape and breaks down the pros and cons of different property types: HDB flats, condominiums, landed homes, and commercial properties.

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🇸🇬 The State of the Property Market in 2025

Singapore property prices, especially in the private residential sector, saw steady growth post-COVID. Although price growth has slowed in 2024–2025 due to cooling measures and higher interest rates, demand remains resilient due to:

• Low unemployment

• Limited land supply

• Singapore’s strong global appeal

• Immigration and PR applications rebounding post-COVID

The government continues to implement cooling measures like:

• Higher ABSD (Additional Buyer’s Stamp Duty)

• Tighter loan-to-value limits

• Stricter Total Debt Servicing Ratio (TDSR)

These have cooled speculation—but not eliminated interest.

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🏠 HDB Flats: The Backbone of Homeownership

✅ Pros:

1. Affordability: Heavily subsidized for first-time buyers, especially BTO flats.

2. Grants & Incentives: CPF Housing Grant, Enhanced CPF Housing Grant, and others help reduce upfront costs.

3. Low Interest Rates on HDB Loans: Fixed 2.6% vs bank loans that can fluctuate.

4. Stability in Value: While not for speculation, many HDB flats hold their value well, especially in mature estates.

❌ Cons:

1. 99-Year Lease Decay: Older flats lose value over time and may be ineligible for SERS.

2. Restrictions on Renting/Selling: 5-year Minimum Occupation Period (MOP); no immediate investment return.

3. Limited Capital Gains: Compared to private properties, HDBs typically don’t offer significant appreciation.

4. Resale Demand Is Uneven: Flats in non-mature estates or with less convenient amenities may struggle with demand.

Verdict:

Perfect for first-time buyers and families who value affordability, grants, and stability. Not ideal for capital appreciation or investment.

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🏢 Condominiums: Lifestyle and Investment Appeal

✅ Pros:

1. Better Facilities: Pools, gyms, security—condos offer a lifestyle upgrade.

2. Freedom to Rent or Sell Anytime: Especially for private condos (not Executive Condos under MOP).

3. Capital Appreciation Potential: Prime district or MRT-proximate condos tend to appreciate well.

4. Foreigners Can Buy: Unlike HDBs or landed, condos are accessible to foreigners and PRs, ensuring wider resale demand.

❌ Cons:

1. High Price Tag: Entry point for new launch condos in 2025 is ~$2,000–$2,400 psf or higher.

2. Maintenance Fees: Monthly costs for upkeep, whether you use facilities or not.

3. Over-Supply Risk: Some regions (e.g., OCR or fringe areas) may see flat pricing due to high supply.

4. ABSD and Taxes: Additional stamp duties for second properties and foreigners erode returns.

Verdict:

Ideal for those who want both lifestyle and long-term investment growth. Requires careful selection of location and entry price.

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🏡 Landed Property: The Ultimate Dream (with a Price)

✅ Pros:

1. Scarcity = Long-Term Value: Only 5% of housing in Singapore is landed, keeping it exclusive.

2. No Condo Restrictions: Full control over your land, design, and home layout.

3. High Upside Potential: Especially in freehold estates or gentrifying neighborhoods.

4. Generational Asset: Great for legacy planning, multigenerational living.

❌ Cons:

1. Extremely High Cost: Entry price for terrace homes now ranges from $3 million up; semi-Ds and bungalows easily hit $5–$15 million.

2. No Facilities: No gym, pool, or clubhouse—unless you build them.

3. Maintenance Burden: You’re responsible for structural upkeep, pest control, gardening, etc.

4. Limited Liquidity: Fewer buyers; takes longer to sell than condos or HDBs.

Verdict:

Best for the ultra-wealthy, legacy-minded buyers. Not for short-term flipping or those with budget constraints.

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🏢 Commercial Property: Offices, Shophouses & Retail Units

✅ Pros:

1. No ABSD: Unlike residential properties, commercial assets are not subject to additional stamp duties.

2. Potential for High Rental Yield: Especially for well-located retail or F&B spaces.

3. Ownership by Company: Suitable for business owners buying for self-use.

4. Longer Leases Possible: Commercial tenants often sign 2–3 year leases.

❌ Cons:

1. GST & Taxes: Commercial property buyers may need to factor in GST or business property tax.

2. Challenging Tenant Market: Especially for retail spaces post-COVID, with high turnover risk.

3. No CPF Usage: Cannot use CPF for purchase or loan repayment.

4. More Volatile Than Residential: Sensitive to economic cycles, tourism, and foot traffic.

Verdict:

Good for seasoned investors or business owners who understand the risks. Not ideal for first-timers or those seeking stable, passive income.

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🧮 Is Property Still a Good Investment in Singapore?

Here’s a simple decision framework:

Question	If Yes...
Is this your first home?	Consider BTO or resale HDB, take advantage of grants.
Are you buying for lifestyle + investment?	Look at well-located condos. Freehold or near MRT hold value better.
Do you want to leave a legacy?	Landed homes are scarce and preserve generational wealth.
Are you a business owner or seasoned investor?	Consider commercial property, but know your numbers.
Is your income tight or volatile?	Renting or waiting may be wiser until you're more financially stable.

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💡 Final Thoughts: Yes, But With Clear Purpose

Buying property in Singapore still makes sense—but only if it aligns with your personal goals, financial readiness, and time horizon. It’s no longer a guaranteed windfall like in the 2000s. Careful analysis, clear planning, and a longer investment mindset are essential in 2025.

In short:

• HDBs: Great for first homes and affordability

• Condos: Balance of lifestyle and returns

• Landed: Scarce, luxurious, and long-term in nature

• Commercial: Niche play with higher risks

Before making a move, run the math: consider mortgage interest, cash flow, rental yields, exit strategy, and worst-case scenarios.

“Don’t buy property just because everyone else is doing it. Buy it because it fits your long-term plan.”

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📩 Thinking of upgrading, investing, or buying your first home? Talk to a financial advisor, property consultant, or banker to get a holistic view before diving in. It's a big decision—and the right move starts with clarity.

100 Bucket List Ideas to Accomplish Before Turning 50

Life is a journey filled with moments we wish to experience, adventures to embark on, and personal milestones to achieve. Many people set out to accomplish certain goals by a certain age. I am nearing my 50. Recently i have been thinking, besides health and wealth, what are the other things i would like to achieve in life. I thought of the bucket list. Here are 100 bucket list ideas that could make my life fuller, richer, and more exciting.

Adventures Around the World

1. See the Northern Lights in Iceland or Norway.
2. Take a road trip across the Malaysia and Indonesia, visiting all states.
3. Visit all 7 continents — including Antarctica.
4. Climb a mountain, like Mount Kilimanjaro or a less daunting one.
5. Swim with dolphins in the wild.
6. Take a hot air balloon ride over a scenic landscape.
7. Explore the Great Barrier Reef in Australia.
8. Walk the Great Wall of China.
9. Go on an African Safari in Kenya or Tanzania.
10. Trek to Machu Picchu in Peru.
11. Go scuba diving in the Galapagos Islands.
12. Take a helicopter ride over the Grand Canyon.
13. Attend Carnival in Brazil.
14. Stay in an overwater bungalow in the Maldives.
15. Go whale watching in Alaska or New Zealand.
16. Travel to Paris, France, and see the Eiffel Tower.
17. Drive along the Pacific Coast Highway in California.
18. Witness a solar eclipse in an amazing location.
19. Explore the pyramids in Egypt.
20. Travel to Japan during cherry blossom season.

Personal Growth & Learning

21. Learn a new language fluently.
22. Master a musical instrument (guitar, piano, etc.).
23. Take a photography class and capture special moments.
24. Write a book (memoir, novel, or collection of short stories).
25. Complete a public speaking course.
26. Take a cooking class in Italy or Thailand.
27. Learn how to meditate or practice mindfulness daily.
28. Start a journal and write every day for a year.
29. Take an improv class or performance arts class.
30. Learn to dance, whether it’s salsa, tango, or ballroom.
31. Create your own website or blog.
32. Volunteer for a cause that means a lot to you.
33. Take a painting class or try other forms of art.
34. Start a podcast and share your passions or insights.
35. Take a mixology course and learn to craft signature cocktails.
36. Attend a writer's retreat to jumpstart your creative process.
37. Learn to knit or crochet.
38. Go on a silent retreat to reset your mind.
39. Take a financial literacy course and become financially savvy.
40. Learn to code and create your own app or website.

Physical Challenges & Wellness

41. Run a marathon or participate in a triathlon.
42. Take a yoga retreat in Bali or another peaceful destination.
43. Complete a 30-day fitness challenge (like push-ups or planking).
44. Hike a famous trail, like the Appalachian Trail or Pacific Crest Trail.
45. Learn to surf.
46. Try rock climbing (indoor or outdoor).
47. Take a fitness class you’ve never tried before (Zumba, Pilates, etc.).
48. Sleep under the stars while camping.
49. Take part in a mud run or obstacle course.
50. Swim in a natural spring or thermal pool.
51. Join a sports league, like soccer, tennis, or even pickleball.
52. Get a health check-up and commit to lifelong wellness.
53. Try ice skating or roller skating if you haven't already.
54. Do a digital detox for a full weekend.
55. Adopt a healthy lifestyle with sustainable habits (nutrition, exercise).
56. Take a forest bath in Japan for mental clarity.
57. Sleep in an ice hotel.
58. Walk 10,000 steps every day for a month.
59. Take a cycling tour through a new city or country.
60. Learn to kayak or paddleboard.

Social & Family Experiences

61. Host a dinner party and invite close friends and family.
62. Reunite with old friends you’ve lost touch with.
63. Create a family tree and learn about your ancestors.
64. Visit every relative you haven’t seen in years.
65. Go to a family reunion and reconnect with distant relatives.
66. Start a tradition like a yearly vacation or holiday activity.
67. Take a cooking class with your partner or children.
68. Take a road trip with your best friends.
69. Adopt a pet from an animal shelter.
70. Plan a surprise for someone you love.
71. Celebrate a milestone birthday with friends and family.
72. Have a picnic in a park on a warm sunny day.
73. Attend a wedding that’s been a long time coming.
74. Plan a surprise proposal for a partner.
75. Host a game night with friends and family.
76. Plan a family volunteering day.
77. Take a family vacation to an exotic destination.
78. Create a scrapbook or memory box with photos and mementos.
79. Take your parents on a trip somewhere they’ve always wanted to go.
80. Have a spa day with your best friend or family.

Giving Back & Charity

81. Volunteer at a homeless shelter or food bank.
82. Donate blood regularly.
83. Mentor someone in your career or life journey.
84. Build homes with Habitat for Humanity.
85. Support a charity close to your heart by raising funds or awareness.
86. Adopt a child’s education by sponsoring them.
87. Organize a fundraiser for a cause you care about.
88. Create care packages for the less fortunate.
89. Help out during a natural disaster or crisis in your area.
90. Plant trees to support environmental conservation.
91. Sponsor an animal at a zoo or sanctuary.
92. Clean up your local beach, park, or neighborhood.
93. Donate clothes and items to people in need.
94. Start a community garden.
95. Raise awareness about mental health and share your own story.
96. Support ethical and sustainable brands.
97. Provide a scholarship for someone’s education.
98. Assist in building sustainable living solutions.
99. Create a charity event or run to support important causes.
100. Leave a legacy by establishing a scholarship or endowment fund.

Conclusion:

These 100 ideas cover a wide range of activities to enrich my own life, from adventure and learning to wellness and giving back. Whether i choose to cross off a few items or all of them, my journey toward fulfilling my bucket list will undoubtedly lead to a life full of unforgettable experiences, personal growth, and deeper connections. Start planning today, and make the next 50 years even more amazing!

What's one of the items from this list you’re already working on or dream of achieving?