By Joshua Tosin Ogunsakin 
The government of Singapore has announced plans to admit up to 40,000 permanent residents annually over the next five years as it adjusts its population strategy to address slowing growth and long-term workforce needs.
The announcement was made by Gan Kim Yong during the Budget 2026 Committee of Supply debate in Parliament, according to reports cited by Punch Online on Monday.
He said, “We estimate an intake of about 40,000 PRs annually in the next five years, slightly higher than the 35,000 PRs we granted last year.”
He added that immigration policy will continue to be carefully calibrated based on demographic conditions.
Gan also emphasised the importance of maintaining a stable citizen core, stating, “We must maintain a stable citizen core, hopefully one that is growing modestly over time, to keep our society and our economy dynamic and vibrant.”
He noted that Singapore’s PR population has remained stable at around 540,000 in recent years and that permanent residency remains an important pathway to citizenship.
Alongside PR adjustments, the government expects to grant between 25,000 and 30,000 new citizenships annually over the next five years, depending on fertility trends and broader demographic shifts.
He further said, “We will also have to adjust our PR intake, as permanent residence is the pathway to work towards citizenship,” adding that intake levels will vary yearly based on applicant suitability, demographic needs, and infrastructure capacity.
The government’s approach reflects a balancing act for Singapore as it seeks to sustain economic growth while managing a rapidly ageing population and persistently low birth rates.
A review of the population strategy is expected by 2030, as policymakers assess longer-term demographic and labour market conditions.