If you are thinking about becoming a Singapore citizen, one question tends to come up before any other: can you keep your current passport? Dual citizenship is a major consideration, especially if you have strong ties to another country. The answer in Singapore is clear, and knowing it early helps you make an informed decision.
This guide explains whether Singapore allows dual citizenship, what happens to your foreign passport, and the rules new citizens must follow.
Quick answer: Singapore does not allow dual citizenship for adults. If you become a Singapore citizen, you are required to renounce your foreign citizenship. Children who hold two citizenships from birth must choose one when they reach the age set by ICA, currently 22.
Does Singapore Allow Dual Citizenship?
No. Singapore does not recognise dual citizenship for adults. To become a Singapore citizen, you must renounce any other citizenship you hold. This is a firm requirement, not a formality that can be worked around, so it is important to weigh it carefully before applying.
What Happens to Your Foreign Passport?
Once you take up Singapore citizenship, you are expected to give up your foreign citizenship and surrender your foreign passport in line with that country’s renunciation process. In practical terms, you become solely a Singapore citizen and travel on a Singapore passport from that point on.
The Rules for Children With Two Citizenships
Children can hold more than one citizenship from birth, for example where one is acquired by descent and another by place of birth. However, this is not permanent. Under Singapore’s rules, such individuals are required to choose a single citizenship when they reach the age set by ICA, currently 22, and to renounce the other. Because these rules can change, it is best to confirm the current requirement with ICA.
Why Singapore Takes This Position
Singapore’s stance reflects the view that citizenship carries a single, undivided commitment, including national responsibilities such as National Service for eligible males. Understanding this helps explain why the requirement to renounce is applied consistently rather than case by case.
Should You Become a PR First?
For many people, permanent residency is a sensible middle step. As a PR you enjoy many of the practical advantages of living in Singapore without giving up your existing citizenship, which is one of the benefits of becoming a Singapore PR. It lets you put down roots and experience life here before making the bigger decision about citizenship. If you are not yet a PR, our Singapore PR application service is the natural place to begin.
Making an Informed Decision
Because citizenship is irreversible in the sense that you give up your other passport, it deserves careful thought. If you decide it is right for you, our Singapore citizenship application service can guide you through the process and the renunciation requirements clearly.
Disclaimer: This article is general information, not immigration or financial advice. ICA and CPF rules can change, so please confirm the latest requirements with the relevant authority or a qualified consultant.
Weighing Up Citizenship and PR
Singapore does not allow adults to hold dual citizenship, so becoming a citizen means committing fully and giving up your foreign passport. For many, PR offers a flexible way to enjoy life in Singapore first, before deciding whether citizenship is the right long-term step.
If you would like help thinking through PR or citizenship for your situation, Singapore Immigration Consultancy is here to guide you. Get in touch with us for a confidential, no-pressure conversation.
Weighing up PR or citizenship? Talk to our consultants for clear, tailored guidance.
Frequently Asked Questions About Dual Citizenship in Singapore
Does Singapore allow dual citizenship?
No. Singapore does not allow dual citizenship for adults. To become a Singapore citizen, you must renounce any other citizenship you hold and surrender your foreign passport in line with that country’s process.
What happens to my foreign passport if I become a Singapore citizen?
You are required to give up your foreign citizenship and surrender your foreign passport. From that point you become solely a Singapore citizen and travel on a Singapore passport.
Can children hold dual citizenship in Singapore?
Children can hold two citizenships from birth, but they are required to choose one when they reach the age set by ICA, currently 22, and renounce the other. It is best to confirm the current rule directly with ICA.
Why does Singapore not allow dual citizenship?
Singapore views citizenship as a single, undivided commitment, including responsibilities such as National Service for eligible males. This is why the requirement to renounce other citizenships is applied consistently.
Should I apply for PR instead of citizenship?
Permanent residency lets you enjoy many advantages of living in Singapore without giving up your existing citizenship, making it a flexible first step. Many people become a PR first before deciding whether citizenship is right for them.
