Detailed Introduction to Singapore's Global Investor Programme (GIP)
Singapore's Global Investor Programme (GIP) is an immigration program specifically designed for global high-net-worth individuals, launched by the Singapore Economic Development Board (EDB). The Singapore GIP aims to promote Singapore's economic development and innovation ecosystem by attracting successful entrepreneurs and investors to start businesses or invest in Singapore. Through the Singapore GIP, eligible applicants can obtain Singapore Permanent Resident (PR) status. Below is a detailed introduction to the program, including eligibility requirements, investment options, application process, and renewal conditions.
1. Singapore GIP Eligibility Requirements
Based on different personal backgrounds, GIP offers four main eligibility pathways for applicants. Applicants must meet one of the following conditions:
| Applicant Category | Eligibility Requirements |
|---|---|
| Established Business Owners | 1. At least 3 years of business experience. 2. Annual business revenue of at least S$200 million in the current year and each of the preceding 3 years. 3. If the company is privately held, must own at least 30% of shares. |
| Next Generation Business Successors | 1. Family business annual revenue of at least S$500 million in the current year and each of the preceding 3 years. 2. Applicant must be a member of the management team (e.g., C-suite). |
| Founders of Fast-Growing Companies | 1. Founder of a non-listed company holding major shares, with company valuation of at least S$500 million. 2. Invested by renowned venture capital or private equity firms. |
| Family Office Principals | 1. At least 5 years of business, investment, or management experience. 2. Net investable assets of at least S$200 million. |
2. Singapore GIP Investment Options
Singapore GIP offers three different investment options, and applicants can choose one based on their circumstances:
| Investment Option | Requirements |
|---|---|
| Option A: Start or Expand Existing Business | Establish a new business or expand existing business in Singapore with an investment of at least S$10 million. Must submit a detailed 5-year business plan, and the company must be in designated industries. |
| Option B: Invest in GIP-Select Funds | Invest at least S$25 million in GIP-Select Funds, which primarily invest in Singapore-based companies. Applicants may be required to provide additional business plans. |
| Option C: Family Office | Establish a single family office in Singapore managing at least S$200 million in assets, with at least S$50 million invested in four designated asset classes. |
3. Singapore GIP Application Process
The GIP application process is relatively straightforward but involves multiple reviews and document submissions. The specific steps are as follows:
- Submit Application Form: Applicants must submit a complete GIP application form online (including personal information, investment plans, etc.) along with required supporting documents.
- Pay Application Fee: Applicants must pay a non-refundable application fee of S$10,000, payable via telegraphic transfer or local bank transfer.
- Interview: Applicants must attend an interview with EDB to review their investment plans and background qualifications.
- Approval and Conditional Approval: Successful applicants will receive an Approval-In-Principle (AIP) status, valid for 6 months, during which applicants must complete their committed investments.
- Final Approval and Permanent Resident Status: After completing the investment, applicants must submit proof of investment. Following EDB's review and approval, the Immigration & Checkpoints Authority (ICA) will issue the formal permanent resident approval letter.
4. Singapore GIP Renewal Conditions
After obtaining Singapore permanent resident status through GIP, applicants must meet the following conditions to renew their Re-Entry Permit (REP):
| Investment Option | 5-Year Renewal Requirements |
|---|---|
| Option A: Start or Expand Existing Business | 1. Investment amount has met GIP requirements. 2. Company employs at least 30 employees, with at least 50% being Singapore citizens and 10 being new hires. 3. Applicant and family members must reside in Singapore for more than half the time. |
| Option B: Invest in GIP-Select Funds | 1. Investment amount has met GIP requirements. 2. Maintain investment in GIP-Select Funds. 3. Applicant and family members must reside in Singapore for more than half the time. |
| Option C: Family Office | 1. Family office employs at least 5 employees, with 3 being Singapore citizens. 2. At least S$50 million invested in four designated asset classes. 3. Applicant and family members must reside in Singapore for more than half the time. |
5. Singapore GIP Summary
Singapore's Global Investor Programme (GIP) provides global high-net-worth individuals with the opportunity to obtain Singapore permanent resident status through investment. Whether through starting a business in Singapore, investing in local companies, or establishing a family office, GIP offers a convenient pathway for entrepreneurs and investors who wish to develop in Singapore long-term.
For more details about the Singapore Global Investor Programme (GIP) application, please feel free to contact our customer consultants for consultation.
