Introduction

A young man in Singapore, who has dedicated his life to the nation, is feeling lost after receiving two rejections for citizenship applications. The 21-year-old, who posted on the r/askSingapore Reddit forum, was born and raised in Singapore and is currently studying engineering at Nanyang Technological University (NTU).

The Experience of Rejection

After serving National Service (NS) two years ago, he was disheartened to see his high school friends, many of whom are permanent residents (PR), successfully obtain citizenship while he faced rejection. "Despite a strong performance during my service and a clean record, I’ve been turned away twice," he lamented.

Seeking Community Support

Seeking guidance from the online community, he expressed frustration and confusion over the rejections, stating, “I’m feeling a bit lost on what I can do from here and would like some advice.”

Community Reactions

His plight resonated with many on the forum. Some users couldn't fathom how someone with such a commitment to the nation could still be denied. Comments ranged from disbelief about the rejection being tied to NS service to suggestions for practical steps he could take to improve his chances, like marrying a Singaporean or getting involved in community service.

Advice from Others

Moreover, advice flowed in from others who had faced similar situations, emphasizing the importance of engaging with their Member of Parliament (MP) to appeal the rejection. “I went through the same ordeal,” one user shared, “Try appealing through your MP—it worked for me.”

Understanding Rejections

While the Immigration and Checkpoints Authority (ICA) does not publicly disclose reasons for citizenship application rejections, common pitfalls include incomplete submissions or documentation errors. Although the young man felt that he had met all the requirements, he was left wondering if there could be underlying issues regarding his financial stability or perceived commitment to Singapore.

Path Forward

For anyone in similar shoes, it’s crucial to remember that there’s a path forward. If a rejection occurs, individuals have six months to submit an appeal. In crafting an appeal letter, potential applicants should clearly articulate their contributions to the nation, emphasizing any significant life changes—such as promotions, marriage, or community involvement—that may strengthen their case.

Conclusion

In a country deeply committed to its citizens and residents, it’s alarming to see dedicated individuals struggle in their quest for citizenship. As this young man continues to seek answers and pursue his dream, his story shines a light on the broader challenges many face in their aspiration to belong in a nation they call home. Stay tuned as we follow his journey and uncover insights into the citizenship application process in Singapore—it's a tale of hope, resilience, and the quest for identity.