A Beginner’s Guide to the Global Investor Programme (GIP) in Singapore
For people who’ve built a business from scratch, navigated ups and downs, and now dream of expanding across borders to live, settle, and start a business, it’s safe to say that Singapore is one of the best countries in the world. The city-state provides immense stability, opportunity, and a chance to lead a happy life for families. If that resonates with you as well, the Global Investor Programme (GIP) in Singapore might be your path.
The GIP offers the opportunity to combine smart investment with long-term stability while helping you tap into Singapore’s dynamic business ecosystem. Over the years, it’s helped draw in business leaders from around the globe.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything that the GIP means: who it’s for, how it works, what you get, and what to watch out for. Let’s get started.
What is the Global Investor Programme (GIP)?
The Global Investor Program is an initiative by the Singapore Economic Development Board (EDB) designed to attract experienced entrepreneurs and high-net-worth individuals to invest in Singapore. Through GIP, eligible investors and their families can obtain permanent resident (PR) status in Singapore.
The GIP program is intended for people who are not merely seeking a new place to live, but who plan to actively contribute to Singapore’s economy. The categories include individuals looking to start businesses, invest in local companies or funds, or establish family offices. In short, GIP isn’t only about easy residency. It’s about strategic investment, long-term commitment and building something in one of the most supportive business environments.
Who Qualifies for GIP?
If you aim to apply under the Global Investor Programme (GIP), the eligibility criteria are quite strict. Several pathways depend on your background:
– Established Business Owners
If you already run a successful business and have a proven track record, you can apply under this category. Typically, you should have a substantial annual turnover in the preceding year.
– Next-Generation Business Owners
If you belong to a business-owning family (e.g., you are a successor or significant shareholder) and the company meets high revenue thresholds, you could qualify under this route. You must hold management-level control (board or C‑suite), and your business should operate in certain approved sectors.
– Founders of Fast‑Growth Companies (e.g., “unicorns”)
If you founded a rapidly scaling company (valued at least SGD 500 million) backed by credible venture capital / private equity, and you remain one of the largest shareholders, this “fast-growth” path can apply.
– Family Office Principals
If you manage a family office with significant assets under management (AUM), you may qualify under the family-office route.
In all cases, your investments must align with sectors favourable under GIP (e.g., technology, clean energy, healthcare, logistics, precision engineering, etc.).
Investment Options Under GIP
Once you qualify by background, you must commit a substantial investment via one of the following options:
Option A – Business Investment: Invest at least SGD 10 million (inclusive of paid-up capital) into a new or existing business operating in Singapore. The company typically needs to create a certain number of local jobs, some of which must be Singapore citizens.
Option B – Approved Fund (GIP-select fund): Invest at least SGD 25 million in a selected fund managed by a Singapore-based fund manager which invests in local companies.
Option C – Single-Family Office (SFO): Establish a family office in Singapore with a minimum of SGD 200 million AUM, of which at least SGD 50 million must be deployed in approved investment categories (e.g., listed companies, qualifying bonds/debt instruments, private equity, funds managed by licensed Singapore managers).
These options reflect policymakers’ desire to ensure that GIP funds contribute to Singapore’s local economy, including by creating jobs, funding local enterprises, and supporting growth industries.
What You Get: Benefits of GIP
If your application is approved, GIP can provide substantial advantages. This includes both personal and business‑wise:
- Permanent Residency (PR) for you and eligible dependents: This typically includes your spouse and children under 21.
- Right to live, work and conduct business freely in Singapore without needing separate work visas.
- Access to high-quality public services, including world-class education, healthcare, infrastructure, and a stable legal and political climate. All of this makes Singapore attractive for long-term settlement.
- A business-friendly climate & strategic regional position: Singapore is a global financial hub with strong regional connectivity. The city-state offers access to fast-growing Southeast Asian markets.
- Potential path to citizenship: Once you hold PR, after a certain period and meeting conditions, you may apply for citizenship (bear in mind Singapore does not usually allow dual citizenship).
In short, GIP offers a stable platform: business opportunities + lifestyle + long-term residency.
Recent Changes & What’s New in the Global Investor Programme (What Applicants Should Watch For)
The GIP underwent significant updates recently (as of March 2023). The investment threshold was raised to ensure that only those who can deliver substantial economic impact can qualify.
For Option A, the minimum business investment was raised to SGD 10 million (from a much lower earlier threshold). Additionally, businesses must commit to hiring at least 30 employees, half of whom must be Singapore citizens; at least 10 must be new local hires, for the Re-entry Permit (REP) renewal after the first five years.
Under Option B, investments must go into a vetted “GIP-select fund.” These funds are evaluated for track record, sector focus, and local investment mandate.
For Option C, establishing a family office requires at least SGD 200 million AUM, with at least SGD 50 million committed into approved categories (listed equities, qualifying debt instruments, funds managed by approved managers, or private equity in local companies). Moreover, at the renewal stage, proof of maintaining those deployed investments and employment of certain local professionals may be required.
Is GIP Right for You (and What to Consider)
Deciding to apply to GIP means weighing both the advantages and the obligations carefully.
- If you’re a business owner with resources ready to invest, and you’re looking for long-term stability and access to Asian markets, GIP can offer incredible value.
- But the high financial threshold (minimum SGD 10–25 million or much more for a family office) means this is only for serious investors or established business owners.
- You must be prepared to commit to local investment. For certain options, you must also put money on local hiring or deployment of capital in Singapore-based businesses.
- Be aware of conditions tied to maintaining PR status. Depending on the option, you may need to meet hiring, investment deployment or residency requirements to renew.
- If you plan to settle long-term, note that while there is a pathway to citizenship, Singapore does not generally allow dual citizenship, so renouncing prior citizenship may be required.
In short, GIP is powerful, but it’s a long-term commitment, not a quick fix.
How to Apply for the Global Investor Program (GIP)
Although the application process can seem complex, here’s a simplified view of how it works:
1. E‑application & Submission
Fill in required forms (including personal profile, business background, financial statements, and intended investment plan) and submit to EDB.
2. Assessment & Interview
EDB reviews your background, business track record, and investment plan and may interview you to gauge fit.
3. Approval-in-Principle (AIP)
If preliminarily approved, you commit to the investment (e.g. fund transfer, business capital).
4. Final Approval & PR Grant
Once the investment commitment is verified and all formalities are complete, PR status (and re‑entry permit, REP) is granted.
5. Post-investment Commitments & REP Renewal (after 5 years, or per scheme rules)
Depending on your chosen option, you may need to meet requirements (job creation, maintained investment deployment, local hiring, or local residency) for renewal of REP/PR rights.
Processing time varies, but many applicants see results within roughly 6–12 months.
Why Singapore and Why GIP Now
Singapore remains a top destination for global investors for several reasons. Politically stable, economically vibrant, with robust infrastructure and a transparent legal system, it’s a business-friendly environment that appeals to entrepreneurs worldwide. GIP builds on these strengths by offering a well-structured, credible route to permanent residence and long-term settlement.
Moreover, with recent updates, GIP now emphasizes real economic contribution. That aligns with Singapore’s broader strategy: attract investors who bring more than capital. The program is expected to bring jobs, growth, local investments and long-term engagement.
For business owners or investors looking to expand in Asia, gain regional connectivity, and offer a stable base to their families, GIP offers a compelling, realistic option.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) on the Global Investor Programme (GIP)
Can my spouse and children apply under the same GIP application?
+
Is there any tax benefit for GIP PR holders?
+
Once I get PR via GIP, will I automatically get citizenship?
+
What kinds of business sectors are eligible under GIP?
+
What changed recently in GIP rules?
+
Final Thoughts
The Global Investor Programme is not meant for everyone. However, for the right person, it offers a rare blend of opportunity, stability, and long-term benefits. If you’re a serious entrepreneur, investor or business owner with resources and vision, GIP could be your passage to shaping a future in one of the world’s most stable, business-friendly nations.
It demands commitment: financially, ethically, and strategically. But for those willing to invest not just money but trust in Singapore’s ecosystem, the rewards can be substantial.
Reach out to Singaporebrand regarding the content in the article. Alternatively, check our list of the Top 10 Best Immigration Services in Singapore for your needs.
