A Certificate of Identity (COI) is a special travel document issued by the Immigration & Checkpoints Authority (ICA) to Singapore Permanent Residents (PRs) who are stateless. The COI helps facilitate international travel for PRs who cannot obtain a national passport from any country. 

Eligibility

Only stateless Singapore permanent residents may apply for a Certificate of Identity. This document is intended for those who do not hold the citizenship of any country and therefore cannot get a regular passport. 

Required Documents

Applicants must prepare original documents and copies for ICA’s review. Documents in languages other than English must be officially translated. Typical requirements include:
• Completed application forms (Form 6E and Form 6)
• Two recent passport-sized colour photographs
• Your blue Identity Card (NRIC)
• Your most recent COI (if you have one)
Additional documents may be requested where necessary. 

Application Procedure

To apply, applicants must submit the completed forms and supporting documents in person at the ICA Services Centre in Singapore. When you arrive, you should take a queue ticket from the self-service kiosk and submit your application at one of the counters. 

Applicants who are abroad may apply through the nearest Singapore overseas mission, which will forward the application to ICA for processing. 

Fees

A Certificate of Identity is typically issued for a period of five years. The standard processing fee is S$125. If your COI is lost or damaged, replacement fees apply (for example, S$50 for the first replacement). 

Processing Time

In most cases, applications are processed within three working days after submission, although some may take longer. You will be informed of the outcome once processing is complete. 

Important Notes

A Certificate of Identity is a travel document, not a passport. It must be kept valid and carried when travelling internationally. Always check visa requirements for your destination country before departure.