Permanent Residence In Brunei: All You Need To Know

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So you’ve fallen in love with Brunei and now you’re pondering the ultimate commitment i.e. permanent residence.

But the path to residency isn’t a leisurely walk in the park.

In this guide, we’ll unravel the complex tapestry of policies and paperwork that awaits you.

Living In Brunei

Brunei Country is located on the island of Borneo in Southeast Asia. The country is about the size of Delaware and has a population of just over 400,000 people. Brunei is an Islamic country, and Sharia law is strictly enforced.

Meanwhile, the government pays for free healthcare and education for citizens. However, despite its small size, Brunei is one of the wealthiest countries in the world due to its large oil and gas reserves.

Brunei is a good fit for you if you’re looking for a small, peaceful country with a low crime rate, a tropical climate, and a relatively high standard of living.

The country has a strong economy and a relatively low cost of living compared to many other developed countries.

However, it is also important to note that Brunei is a Muslim-majority country and has quite a strict social atmosphere. The government enforces strict laws and punishments regarding behavior, which can be challenging for foreigners to adjust.

Researching and visiting a country before deciding to move there is always a good idea. This will give you a better idea of whether or not the country is a good fit for you and will also help you make more informed decisions about the logistics of your move.

What Is A Brunei Resident Permit?

A Brunei Resident Permit is a document that allows a foreign national to live and work in Brunei for a specific period. The Immigration Department of Brunei issues the permit, valid for up to two years.

However, an individual must have a valid passport and a completed application form to apply for a Resident permit. It is also supporting documents such as a letter of employment or an offer of admission from a school.

Types Of Brunei Resident Permits

There are four types of Brunei resident permits, each with benefits and requirements.

  • The first type is the Entrepreneur Pass for individuals who want to start their business in Brunei.
  • The second type is the Employment Pass, which allows foreign workers to work in Brunei.
  • The third type is the Student Pass, which allows international students to study in Brunei.
  • The fourth and final type is the Retirement Pass, which allows retirees to live in Brunei.

How To Get Permanent Residency In Brunei

Obtaining permanent residency (PR) in Brunei can be difficult, as the government tightly controls the number of people granted PR status.

To be eligible for permanent residency in Brunei, you must first be employed in the country and have held a valid work permit for at least five years. Additionally, you must pass a series of background checks and have a clean criminal record.

One of the most common ways to become a permanent resident in Brunei is to be sponsored by an employer.

Employers looking to sponsor an employee for PR status typically have to demonstrate that the employee is a valuable asset to the company and that there is a need for more workers with the employee’s skills in the country.

Another way for foreigners to get permanent residency in Brunei is through marriage to a Bruneian citizen. The spouse of a Bruneian citizen is usually eligible to apply for permanent residency after being married for at least five years.

Also, they have an option of investment and financial stability, an applicant who has invested a significant amount of money in the country, and has demonstrated financial stability, may be considered for permanent residency.

It’s always good to check the latest immigration policies and procedures with the government of Brunei to ensure you have the latest and correct information as the policies keep changing.

It’s important to note that obtaining PR can be time-consuming and require much documentation.

It’s best to consult an immigration lawyer or the Department of Immigration and National Registration for more specific information and guidance on the process.

Requirements To Apply For A Brunei Resident Permit

If you are planning to move to Brunei, you will need to apply for a Resident Permit. The requirements for the permit are as follows:

  • You must have a valid passport
  • A job offer or confirmation of enrollment at a school
  • A completed application form.
  • You will also need to provide two passport-sized photos and pay a processing fee.

They will issue you a Resident Permit once they have approved your application. This will allow you to live and work in Brunei.

How To Apply For A Brunei Resident Permit

Before applying for a Brunei Resident Permit, there are a few other things to consider:

  1. Make sure you have a valid passport.
  2. Check with your home country’s Brunei Embassy or Consulate to see if you need a visa.
  3. Gather all of the required documents.
  4. Submit your application and pay the processing fee.
  5. Wait for your permit to be issued.

Duration Of A Brunei Resident Permit

A Brunei Resident permit is necessary for any foreigner who wants to stay in the country for more than ninety days. However, you can obtain this permit from the Immigration Department, valid for one year.

It’s possible to extend its life for another two years. After that, the permit holder must leave Brunei and apply for a new permit if they want to stay in the country.

However, the length of time a foreigner can stay in Brunei on a Resident permit depends on their nationality.

Brunei Resident Permit Application Fees

The Brunei Resident Permit application fees are as follows:

  • Single Entry – $20
  • Multiple Entry – $30.

However, the fees are payable in Brunei Dollars at the time of application. Meanwhile, they may add a service charge. Also, charges may be subject to change. The Bruneian ImmiCard remains valid from the date of issuance.

Benefits Of Living In Brunei

There are many factors to consider when it comes to finding a place to live. Some people prefer bustling cities, while others prefer more laid-back rural areas. But for those who want the best of both worlds, Brunei is the perfect place to call home.

This tiny Southeast Asian nation may be small, but it packs a big punch when offering a high quality of life. Here are just a few of the reasons why Brunei is a great place to live:

The Weather Is Perfect Year-round

Brunei enjoys a tropical climate with temperatures averaging around 27 degrees Celsius. And because it’s located near the equator, there is minimal variation in the temperature throughout the year.

So whether you like it hot or prefer a cooler climate, Brunei is the perfect place.

The Scenery Is Beautiful

Brunei is blessed with some of Southeast Asia’s most stunning natural scenery. From its pristine beaches to its lush rainforests, there is no shortage of beauty to be found in this tiny country.

Also, because it’s a Muslim-majority nation, Brunei has a unique and interesting culture worth exploring.

3)   The Cost Of Living Is Low

Compared to other developed nations, the cost of living in Brunei is meager. This makes it an affordable place to live, especially for those on a tight budget.

However, because of the recent oil price slump, the cost of living in Brunei has been gradually increasing. So it’s best to do some research before making a move.

The Infrastructure Is Excellent

Brunei boasts some of the best infrastructures in Southeast Asia. The roads are well-paved and well-maintained, the telecommunications are top-notch, and the public transportation system is efficient and reliable.

This makes it easy to get around the country and connect with the rest of the world.

The People Are Friendly and Welcoming

Bruneians are known for being warm and welcoming people. They are always happy to meet new people and chat about their culture and country.

So if you’re looking for a friendly and hospitable community to call home, Brunei is the place for you. Besides, who wouldn’t want to live in a country where the weather is perfect all year round?

There Are Plenty of Things to Do

Even though it’s a small country, Brunei offers plenty of things to see and do.

There are numerous museums and historical sites to explore, as well as beautiful natural parks and reserves. And for those who love the outdoors, there are plenty of opportunities for hiking, camping, and other activities.

It’s A Safe Place to Live

Brunei is one of the safest countries in the world. It has a shallow crime rate, and its citizens are known for being honest and trustworthy. So if you’re looking for a safe and secure place to call home, Brunei is worth considering.

Who Can Apply For A Brunei Resident Permit?

The Brunei Resident Permit is available to any non-citizen seeking to reside in Brunei for an extra period. Also, it allows the holder to stay in Brunei for up to two years and provides access to a wide range of benefits, including healthcare and education.

However, the permit also allows the holder to work in Brunei and gives them the right to own property and start a business.

How Long Can Foreigners Stay In Brunei?

In Brunei, foreigners are allowed to stay for a maximum of ninety days. After that, they must apply for a new visa. The process is simple and easy to set up online. Nonetheless, there has to be a significant prerequisite.

First, the foreigner must have a valid passport. Second, they must have a return ticket. Finally, bankruptcy documents such as bank loan statements or a bank card are necessary to confirm the corporation’s stability.

Does Brunei Allow Dual Citizenship?

As of 2019, Brunei does not allow dual citizenship. This is because the Bruneian government does not recognize any other citizenship besides Bruneian.

Therefore, if an individual wants to become a citizen of Brunei, they must renounce their previous citizenship. While the method is more or less universal, this general rule has a few exceptions.

Conclusion

Navigating the labyrinthine world of permanent residence in Brunei can feel like learning a new dance. But don’t fret; you’ve got the moves, and now, with this guide, you have the rhythm. So lace up your dancing shoes and prepare to waltz your way to a Brunei address.

Happy Exploring!

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