It is heartening that Mr Dietrich sees Singapore as his preferred country to settle in after his retirement.

We welcome foreigners, like Mr Dietrich, who not only contributed to our society, but can also identify with our way of life and are willing to make Singapore their home.

While there is no expiry date for the Singapore permanent resident (PR) status, there is a validity period for the re-entry permit (REP) issued to Singapore PRs.

The REP allows one to retain the PR status while travelling abroad provided that he returns to Singapore before his REP expires. This practice of issuing re-entry permits to PRs is adopted by other countries also.

We understand Mr Dietrich's concerns as a retired PR. One of the current requirements for renewal or issue of REPs for those who obtained their PR status under the Economic Scheme is to be gainfully employed.

Nevertheless, when such PRs retire, we would generally continue to issue or renew their REPs in recognition of their past contributions to Singapore.

Lim Jing Jing (Ms)
Deputy Head, Public &
Internal Communications
for Commissioner
Immigration & Checkpoints Authority