As the spotlight shines on immigration ahead of the May 3 General Election in Singapore, political parties are stepping up to reveal their stances and policy proposals on this contentious topic. This year, the discussion is more heated than ever, as Singaporeans express divided views on the future of immigration.

The People's Action Party (PAP) Stance

While lacking a direct immigration section in their manifesto, the PAP emphasizes cohesion and plans to enhance integration efforts for the diverse population.

The Workers' Party (WP) Approach

The WP also doesn't address immigration outright but importantly emphasizes the integration of foreign spouses and reducing over-reliance on foreign labor. They propose a structured points-based residency system for foreign spouses, aiming for transparency in the immigration process, and suggest disclosing reasons behind residency and citizenship application rejections.

In terms of labor, the WP argues for stricter renewal conditions for work passes in critical sectors, advocating for employers to show effective skill transfer to local workers. They are also seeking a new fixed-term work pass for certain industries.

Red Dot United's Unique Suggestions

Though RDU’s manifesto does not cover immigration directly, it suggests housing reforms to limit resale flat purchases for new citizens and permanent residents who have been in the country for less than a decade, with exceptions for National Service completers.

The party also proposes considering naturalized citizens on par with native-born citizens regarding housing eligibility after a decade of citizenship, blending inclusivity with regulations.

Progress Singapore Party's Perspective

The PSP keeps its focus indirectly on immigration with proposals targeting the foreign workforce. They recommend implementation of quotas on Employment Pass holders, suggesting smaller companies should have more flexibility in hiring foreign talent.

Additionally, the party aims to bolster the Fair Consideration Framework, ensuring protection for local workers by requiring companies to prioritize local job advertisements before hiring foreigners.

To further even the playing field, they suggest imposing a levy on EP holders.

Singapore Democratic Party's Vision

The SDP introduces its own initiatives related to immigration, notably proposing a 'talent track' system prioritizing Singaporeans in the workforce by allowing only rigorously vetted foreign professionals.

To combat emigration and boost local talent retention, they advocate policy reforms alongside a rise in the national birth rate. Interestingly, the SDP is also calling for reform of the Ethnic Integration Policy, seeking to remove race identification from National Registration Identity Cards.

As Singapore navigates its immigration landscape, party proposals paint a diverse picture of how immigration influences policy, society, and the economy.