SINGAPORE — Singapore citizens and permanent residents (PRs) are required to keep their residential address updated on their identity card (IC) whenever they move to a new home. The Immigration & Checkpoints Authority (ICA) oversees this process to ensure records are accurate for official correspondence and verification purposes.

Who Must Update Their Address
All Singapore Citizens and PRs aged 15 and above must update their residential address on their NRIC (National Registration Identity Card) within 28 days of moving. This update helps maintain correct contact details for government notices and public services.

How to Update Your Residential Address
The ICA provides a convenient online service for updating residential address details using SingPass:
• Online Application: Log in to the ICA’s e-Service with your SingPass and submit your new address details.

In most cases, proof of new address may be required, such as a utility bill or tenancy agreement, especially if ICA requests it for verification. Residents should ensure information entered is accurate to avoid processing delays.

Fees and Processing Time
Updating a residential address on the IC is typically free of charge for Singapore Citizens and PRs. Once successfully submitted, the updated address will be recorded in ICA’s database. No new physical IC will be issued unless there are additional changes (e.g., a replacement card due to name or photograph update).

When a New IC Is Issued
A new IC will only be issued if a physical card update is necessary due to significant changes like a new name, religious name change, or loss/damage of the card — not for just updating the residential address.

Importance of Keeping Address Updated
An accurate residential address ensures that important government correspondence — including notifications from ICA, healthcare records, and other statutory services — reaches the intended recipient promptly. It also aids in identity verification for services requiring proof of address.

Residents are encouraged to check their details regularly and promptly update any changes to avoid inconveniences related to missed communications or outdated records.