Overseas pre-enlistees
All male Singapore citizens and Permanent Residents (PRs) are liable for National Service (NS) once they turn 13 years of age, even if they are not residing in Singapore at that point in time. They will be enlisted at the earliest opportunity on reaching 18 years old. If you are residing overseas with your son, kindly take note of the below obligations and processes required of your son before enlistment into full-time NS.
Exit Permit and bond
If you are an overseas Singaporean and you have a son who is 13 years old and above residing overseas with you, an Exit Permit and a bond may be required.
Registration for NS at 16.5 years old and deferment for studies
All male Singapore citizens and PRs have to register for NS on reaching 16.5 years old. This requirement also applies to male children who are granted PR status under their parents’ sponsorship.
Those who are residing or studying overseas will be sent registration notices from us to register online.
Failure to register is an offence under the Enlistment Act. Offenders shall be liable on conviction to a fine not exceeding $10,000 or to imprisonment for a term not exceeding three years or to both.
If your son is studying and wishes to complete his studies before enlistment, he can apply for deferment during the NS registration process. In general, deferment is granted to pre-enlistees to attain their highest education qualification possible after 12 years of formal schooling (excluding pre-school and kindergarten) and before entry into university.