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Some new updates !

SINGAPORE: A new Long Term Visit Pass Plus (LTVP+) will be introduced in April to help foreign spouses of Singaporeans.

Several MPs had raised the difficulty faced by some foreign spouses in Singapore in getting a PR status or citizenship.

Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Home Affairs Teo Chee Hean said the scheme will be for a duration of three years and up to five years for each subsequent renewal.

This is instead of the current shorter periods of one year.

Long Term Visit Pass Plus holders will also receive benefits.

Mr Teo said: "LTVP+ holders will also receive healthcare subsidies for inpatient treatment, inpatient treatment at restructured hospitals, pegged at a level close to that for PRs, that is, about the same rates as PRs even though they have not yet been given PR.

"It will be easier for LTVP+ holders to work to supplement the family income. They will only require a Letter of Consent from MOM to work, which can be easily obtained through online application."

- CNA/de