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National Arts Council

Foreign Artistic Talent Scheme (ForArts)

Explore more on the scheme which is jointly administered by the Singapore Immigration & Checkpoints Authority (ICA) and the National Arts Council (NAC).

Last updated on 26 September 2026

About the Foreign Artistic Talent Scheme (ForArts)

The Foreign Artistic Talent Scheme (ForArts) was introduced in 1991 for outstanding international arts professionals to become Singapore Permanent Residents (PR) in recognition of their cultural significance and contribution.  The scheme aims to enable committed and talented individuals to play a critical role in advancing the arts and cultural landscape in Singapore through the deepened engagement with local communities, and contribution to the diversity of expertise.

The Foreign Artistic Talent Scheme (ForArts) is jointly administered by the Singapore Immigration & Checkpoints Authority (ICA) and the National Arts Council (NAC). However, ICA remains the final authority on all PR applications.

Eligibility criteria

To be considered for the ForArts Scheme, you must meet all the following minimum criteria:

  • Possess relevant training/education in your field of practice

  • Possess relevant professional experience, with outstanding achievements, in the field of Performing Arts, Visual Arts, Literary Arts, Design and/or Media

  • Have made significant contributions to Singapore’s arts and cultural scene, including a strong track record of local engagements at leadership level

  • Have concrete future plans to be involved in Singapore’s arts and cultural sector

Besides possessing the ability to play a critical role in advancing local arts and culture, and the commitment to do so, eligible applicants must furthermore demonstrate good character and the ability to be a role model for their peers in order to be considered favourably for support under this scheme.

For more information, please refer to our ForArts FAQ [PDF, 617.58 KB] (opens in new tab)

Application process

To apply, please submit the completed Application Form [DOC, 67.00 KB] (opens in new tab) with a copy of your CV by email through this form (opens in new tab).

Please note that NAC may ask for additional documents for further assessment. You will be notified of the outcome within 3 months of NAC receiving all necessary documents.

Successful applicants for the ForArts Scheme will be required to complete ICA’s online PR Application Form. ICA is the final authority on all PR applications.

Direct applications to ICA

Foreign artists who have worked in the arts in Singapore on an Employment Pass or Specialist Pass for at least 2-3 years and would like to apply for permanent residence, but do not satisfy the criteria of the above Scheme, can make a direct application for permanent residence to ICA. For more information on available PR schemes, please visit ICA’s website (opens in new tab).

Key documents