Singapore’s public housing is managed by the Housing & Development Board (HDB). It is an important part of the country’s housing policy. HDB flats are mainly for Singapore Citizens (SCs). However, Permanent Residents (PRs) can also buy some types of HDB flats if they meet certain conditions.
In this article, we will look at the rules and eligibility for Singapore PRs who want to buy an HDB flat in Singapore.
Can Singapore Permanent Residents Buy HDB Flats?
Yes, Singapore PRs can buy resale HDB flats, but they cannot buy new BTO (Built-To-Order) flats directly from HDB. Only Singapore Citizens can apply for BTO flats. Some exceptions exist for mixed-family cases, like a Singapore Citizen married to a PR.
Types of HDB Flats PRs Can Buy
- Resale HDB Flats – PRs can buy from the open resale market.
- Executive Condominiums (ECs) after MOP – PRs can buy privatized ECs that have met the 5-year Minimum Occupation Period (MOP).
PRs cannot buy:
- New BTO/SBF (Sale of Balance Flats) from HDB.
- DBSS (Design, Build and Sell Scheme) flats.
Eligibility Conditions for PRs Buying HDB Flats
1. Family Nucleus Requirement
PRs must form a proper family nucleus to buy an HDB resale flat. Eligible schemes include:
- PR Couple (both must be PRs).
- PR + SC Spouse (one PR and one Singapore Citizen).
- PR + Non-Citizen Spouse (with valid long-term visa, e.g., LTVP or Work Pass).
- PR Parent with SC Child (under certain conditions).
Single PRs cannot buy an HDB flat unless they are at least 35 years old and purchase under the Single Singapore Citizen Scheme (if one buyer is an SC) or the Non-Citizen Spouse Scheme.
2. Minimum Occupation Period (MOP) for PR Sellers
If you are a PR selling your HDB flat, you must have fulfilled the 5-year MOP before selling it on the open market.
3. PR Quota in HDB Estates
HDB imposes an ethnic integration policy (EIP) and Singapore Permanent Resident (SPR) quota to maintain balanced ethnic distribution. Some neighbourhoods may impose a PR quota limit, meaning PR buyers may face restrictions if someone has already filled the quota.
4. Additional Buyer’s Stamp Duty (ABSD) for PRs
PRs must pay Additional Buyer’s Stamp Duty (ABSD) when purchasing property in Singapore:
- 5% ABSD for the first residential property,
- 30% ABSD for the second private residential properties and,
- 35% ABSD for subsequent properties.
5. Loan and Financing Options for PRs
PRs can take either:
- HDB Loan (if eligible) – Must have at least one SC in the family.
- Bank Loan – Subject to bank approval and loan-to-value (LTV) limits.
Conclusion
Singapore PRs can buy resale HDB flats, but they cannot purchase new BTO flats. They must meet family nucleus requirements, adhere to ethnic and PR quotas, and pay ABSD. Understanding these rules helps PRs make informed decisions when buying an HDB flat in Singapore.
For the latest updates, always check the official HDB website.
Want to know more about home loan options or the HDB resale process? Speak to IQrate’s Mortgage Broker for a free, no-obligation advisory.