--- title: Making the Right Choice: PTS Scheme or Family Scheme for Your Spouse's PR application description: PTS scheme vs family scheme for your spouse's Singapore PR application. Compare eligibility, processing time, and which pathway offers the best approval chances. canonical: https://www.singaporetopimmigration.sg/blog/pts-vs-family-scheme-spouse-pr lang: en-SG --- PR Application # Making the Right Choice: PTS Scheme or Family Scheme for Your Spouse's PR application 31 March 2023·2 min read If you're a Singapore Permanent Resident (PR) and you want your spouse to join you as a PR, choosing the right scheme for their application is crucial. The Professional, Technical Personnel, and Skilled Workers (PTS) Scheme and the Family Scheme are the two options available for your spouse's [PR appeal](/services/appeal) or [Singapore PR application](/services/singapore-pr). It's important to understand the eligibility requirements, benefits, and drawbacks of each scheme to make an informed decision. In this article, we'll provide an overview of both schemes and highlight the key factors you need to consider to select the right scheme for your spouse's[PR application](/resources/singapore-pr-application-guide). ![PTS-Scheme-or-Family-Scheme-1](https://cdn.sanity.io/images/78z7uzbt/production/8cfeb6ffb8d078882ab1cba1f0201efb64095d1c-940x788.jpg?w=1200&fit=max&auto=format) **Understanding the PTS Scheme** The PTS Scheme is designed for foreign professionals, technical personnel, and skilled workers who are looking to work and settle down in Singapore. Here are some of the eligibility requirements for the scheme: - Employment Pass - Personalised Employment Pass - EntrePass - S Pass Some benefits of applying through the PTS Scheme include faster processing times and a higher chance of approval if the applicant meets the eligibility criteria. However, the scheme can be competitive, and not all applicants may qualify. **Understanding the Family Scheme (Under Sponsorship)** The Family Scheme is designed for foreigners who have family members who are Singapore citizens or PRs. PR applicants would still be assessed beyond their relationship to the Citizen or PR. In other words, you are not the only person who can affect your spouse's ability to obtain PR approval. Here are some of the eligibility requirements for the scheme: - Employment Pass - Personalised Employment Pass - EntrePass - S Pass - Work Permit - Dependant’s Pass - Long-Term Visit Pass One benefit of applying through the Family Scheme is that it is less competitive compared to the PTS Scheme. However, processing times can be longer, and the applicant's eligibility is dependent on their sponsor's status. **Factors to consider when deciding between PTS Scheme and Family Scheme** When choosing between the PTS Scheme and the Family Scheme for your spouse's PR application, there are several factors to consider: **_Your Nationality or Status:_** If you are either a Singapore PR or Citizen, your spouse should [apply for permanent residency](/blog/5-reasons-should-apply-singapore-pr-for-parents) under the Family Scheme. **_Length of Marriage:_** In light of the frequency with which sham marriages occur, rushing into a PR application under the Family Scheme immediately after your marriage will inevitably trigger red flags. Regardless of the sincerity of your connection, ICA officers rarely issue PR status to a Non-Resident spouse whose union to a Citizen or PR is too recent. **_Presence of Children:_** Wait until you have children before applying for permanent residency under the Family Scheme, especially if you have the means to raise them in the future. **_Cost and fees:_** Consider the costs associated with each scheme, such as application fees and the cost of hiring a professional immigration consultant. **Making the decision** To make an informed decision, you need to analyse the pros and cons of each scheme based on the factors above. Weigh the importance of each factor for your unique situation and identify which scheme aligns with your spouse's qualifications and work experience. If you are unsure, consider seeking professional advice from an immigration consultant. **Conclusion** Choosing the right PR scheme for your spouse's application is crucial. Understanding the eligibility requirements, benefits, and drawbacks of both the PTS Scheme and the Family Scheme will help you make an informed decision. Take the time to consider the factors mentioned. Go Deeper ## Related Guides - [![Definitive Singapore PR Application Guide 2026](https://cdn.sanity.io/images/78z7uzbt/production/daf1fa1e50cb7e9d16a23324bb3a4db5903b0936-1440x600.webp?w=720&auto=format&fit=max)](/resources/singapore-pr-application-guide) [PR Application](/resources/category/pr-application) Updated March 2026 ### [Definitive Singapore PR Application Guide 2026](/resources/singapore-pr-application-guide) Complete guide to applying for Singapore Permanent Residence in 2026. Covers all 7 eligibility categories, required documents, step-by-step ICA e-Service process, fees, processing timeline, and what to do after approval. Read the Guide ↗ Keep Reading ## Related Posts - [![6 Key Differences Between Singapore PR and LTVP (2026 Guide)](https://cdn.sanity.io/images/78z7uzbt/production/27de1ee6dabefe488d913f522040c58e7f7165f6-1408x768.webp?w=720&auto=format&fit=max)](/blog/key-differences-singapore-pr-vs-ltvp) PR Application23 March 2026 ### [6 Key Differences Between Singapore PR and LTVP (2026 Guide)](/blog/key-differences-singapore-pr-vs-ltvp) PR and LTVP both let you live in Singapore, but work rights, CPF, housing, healthcare, and school fees differ sharply. Here are the 6 differences that matter most in 2026. Read Now ↗ ## Have a question about your own case? Ask us. A first consultation costs nothing and commits you to nothing. You will leave it knowing where your profile actually stands. [Free Expert Consultation↗](/contact#lead-form)[Back to the Blog](/blog)