Singapore GIP Scheme: The Global Investor Programme Guide
The Global Investor Programme (GIP) is Singapore's pathway to Permanent Residence for high net worth investors and established entrepreneurs. Unlike the employment-based PTS scheme, GIP requires substantial financial investment - a minimum of S$10 million - in exchange for expedited PR status. This guide covers eligibility criteria, investment options, business track record requirements, and the complete application process.
What is the GIP Scheme?
The Global Investor Programme (GIP) is Singapore's investor immigration scheme, administered by the Economic Development Board (EDB) in partnership with the Immigration & Checkpoints Authority (ICA). It is designed to attract established entrepreneurs and high net worth individuals who can contribute to Singapore's economy through substantial investments.
GIP at a Glance
Minimum Investment
S$10 million (varies by option)
Target Audience
High net worth investors, entrepreneurs
Processing Time
6-12 months typically
Administering Body
EDB (Economic Development Board)
Unlike the Professional/Technical Personnel (PTS) scheme which requires employment in Singapore, GIP is purely investment-based. Successful applicants receive PR status for themselves and eligible family members, with the expectation that they will contribute to Singapore's economic growth through their investments and business expertise.
Key Point: GIP is not a "golden visa" where you simply invest and forget. Singapore expects active economic contribution. Investments must be maintained, and there are ongoing compliance requirements reviewed by EDB.
Eligibility Requirements
GIP has stringent eligibility requirements that vary depending on which investment option you choose. The programme is designed for individuals with proven business success and substantial financial resources.
General Requirements (All Options)
- Clean personal background with no criminal record
- Demonstrable source of funds (legally acquired wealth)
- Genuine intent to relocate and contribute to Singapore
- Good character and reputation
For Options A and B (Business/Fund Investment)
- At least 3 years of entrepreneurial and business track record
- Company with minimum S$200M annual turnover (3-year average) OR S$500M in most recent year
- Hold at least 30% shareholding in the company
- Company must be in an approved industry sector
For Option C (Family Office)
- Net investable assets of at least S$200 million
- Minimum 5 years of investment or entrepreneurial track record
- Commit to deploying S$50M in qualifying investments within 24 months
Important: The shareholding and turnover requirements are strictly enforced. If you hold less than 30% or your company doesn't meet the turnover threshold, you will not qualify for Options A or B.
Investment Options (S$10M Minimum)
GIP offers three distinct investment pathways. Each has different requirements and is suited to different types of investors. All investments must be maintained for at least 5 years.
Option A: New Business Entity
Minimum S$10 million investment
Invest at least S$10 million in starting a new business entity or expanding an existing business operation in Singapore.
Requirements:
- - Submit a detailed 5-year business plan
- - Business must be in an approved industry sector
- - Create local employment opportunities
- - Meet projected revenue and hiring milestones
Option B: GIP-Approved Fund
Minimum S$25 million investment
Invest at least S$25 million in a GIP-approved fund that invests in Singapore-based companies.
Requirements:
- - Fund must be on the GIP-approved list
- - Higher investment threshold than Option A
- - More passive approach to investment
- - Fund invests in Singapore economy on your behalf
Option C: Family Office
S$200M AUM with S$50M qualifying investments
Establish a Singapore-based single family office with at least S$200 million in assets under management, with S$50 million deployed in qualifying investments.
Requirements:
- - Set up single family office in Singapore
- - Minimum S$200M assets under management
- - Deploy S$50M in qualifying investments within 24 months
- - Qualifying investments include Singapore-listed equities, bonds, funds
| Option | Minimum Investment | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| Option A | S$10 million | Active entrepreneurs, business owners |
| Option B | S$25 million | Passive investors, busy executives |
| Option C | S$200M AUM + S$50M qualifying | Ultra-high net worth families |
Tip: Option A offers the lowest entry point but requires active business management. Option B is more passive but costs more. Option C is designed for ultra-wealthy families who want to establish their wealth management operations in Singapore.
Business Track Record Requirements
For Options A and B, EDB requires substantial evidence of your entrepreneurial background. This is not simply about having money - Singapore wants individuals with proven business acumen who can contribute to the local economy.
Turnover Requirements
3-Year Average
S$200M
Minimum annual turnover averaged over last 3 years
OR Most Recent Year
S$500M
Minimum turnover in the most recent financial year
Shareholding Requirements
You must hold at least 30% shareholding in the company used to qualify. This ensures that applicants are genuine business owners with significant stake, not merely passive shareholders.
Approved Industry Sectors
Your business must be in a sector that Singapore considers strategically important. Approved sectors include:
Note: Real estate, construction, and certain other sectors may not qualify under GIP. EDB evaluates each application based on the potential economic contribution to Singapore. If you're unsure whether your industry qualifies, consult with EDB directly.
Processing Time
GIP applications typically take longer to process than standard PR applications under the PTS scheme. This is due to the comprehensive due diligence required.
GIP Processing
6-12 months
Includes business verification, source of funds checks, and investment viability assessment
PTS Processing
4-6 months
Standard employment-based PR applications
What Takes Time?
- Business verification: Auditing your company's financials and validating turnover claims
- Source of funds: Ensuring your wealth is legally acquired
- Background checks: Comprehensive security and background screening
- Investment review: For Option A, evaluating your business plan viability
- Interview: Many GIP applicants are called for an interview with EDB
Tip: Start gathering documentation early. The more organized and complete your application, the faster it can be processed. Incomplete applications or requests for additional information extend the timeline.
Family Inclusion
One of GIP's attractions is the ability to include family members in your PR application. Your immediate family can receive PR status together with you.
Who Can Be Included
Spouse
Legally married husband or wife
Children
Unmarried children under 21 years old
Parents
Parents cannot be included in your initial GIP PR application. However, once you obtain PR status, you can sponsor them for a Long-Term Visit Pass (LTVP). This is a common pathway for GIP holders who wish to bring elderly parents to Singapore.
National Service Obligations
Male dependents included in your application may be liable for National Service (NS) obligations. This includes:
- Sons who are Singapore PRs must register for NS at age 16.5
- NS obligation applies regardless of how they obtained PR (through GIP or otherwise)
- Failure to comply with NS obligations can affect the entire family's PR status
Consider This: If you have teenage sons, factor NS obligations into your decision. Some families choose not to include sons close to NS age in the PR application, though this is a personal decision with various factors to consider.
GIP vs PTS Scheme Comparison
GIP and PTS are the two main pathways for adults seeking Singapore PR (excluding family ties schemes). Here's how they compare:
| Aspect | GIP Scheme | PTS Scheme |
|---|---|---|
| Target Audience | High net worth investors | Working professionals (EP/S Pass) |
| Financial Requirement | S$10M-S$200M+ investment | No investment (stable employment) |
| Processing Time | 6-12 months | 4-6 months |
| Employment Needed | No (investment-based) | Yes (current work pass) |
| Administering Body | EDB + ICA | ICA only |
| Ongoing Requirements | Maintain investment 5+ years | None specific |
| Family Inclusion | Spouse + children under 21 | Spouse + children under 21 |
When to Choose GIP
- You have substantial wealth and want a direct investment pathway
- You don't want to work for a Singapore employer
- Your business track record meets the turnover requirements
- You want to establish a family office in Singapore
When to Choose PTS
- You are employed in Singapore on an EP or S Pass
- You don't have S$10M+ available for investment
- You prefer the certainty of a salary over investment risk
- Your company doesn't meet GIP turnover requirements
Application Process
The GIP application process differs from standard PR applications. It is managed by EDB rather than applying directly through ICA.
Submit Expression of Interest
Contact EDB to express your interest in GIP. They will provide preliminary guidance on eligibility and the appropriate investment option.
Prepare Documentation
Gather all required documents including business financials, audited accounts, shareholding certificates, source of funds documentation, and personal documents.
Submit Full Application
Complete the GIP application form with all supporting documents. For Option A, include your detailed 5-year business plan.
Due Diligence & Interview
EDB conducts thorough verification of your background, business, and financials. You may be called for an interview in Singapore.
Approval in Principle (AIP)
If successful, you receive AIP. You then have 6 months to make your investment as per your chosen option.
Make Investment & Final Approval
Deploy your investment as committed. Once verified, EDB processes your final PR approval and you receive your entry permit.
Need Help with Documentation?
While ClearCase primarily assists with standard PR applications, our platform can help you organize personal documents for the GIP process.
Get StartedFrequently Asked Questions
What is the Singapore GIP Scheme?
What is the minimum investment for GIP Singapore?
How long does GIP application take?
Can my family get PR through GIP?
What business track record is required for GIP?
What is the difference between GIP and PTS scheme?
What happens if I withdraw my GIP investment early?
Can I apply for GIP if my business is outside Singapore?
Exploring Your PR Options?
Whether you qualify for GIP or the standard PTS scheme, proper preparation is key. ClearCase helps you organize documents and present the strongest possible application.
ClearCase Editorial Team
Immigration Documentation Specialists
Our team continuously monitors Singapore immigration policies including EDB's Global Investor Programme updates. We combine technology expertise with deep knowledge of Singapore's investor immigration requirements.