Entry Permit (route toward permanent resident status)

Overview

The Entry Permit is the route toward permanent resident status in Brunei. The immigration department's Entry Permit division processes applications to obtain permanent resident status and issues the related re-entry permits and visas. In practice it is the formal channel through which long-resident foreigners in limited, qualifying circumstances move toward becoming permanent residents. Honesty box - please read: Brunei has no golden visa and no investment-based permanent residence, so the Entry Permit is not something you can buy your way into - it is discretionary, selective and slow. Good to know: fees can vary by nationality. Treat any timing or fee as indicative and confirm on the official Immigration and National Registration Department page.

Eligibility

Application pathway

1. 01

   Check the route fit

   Confirm you fall within the limited circumstances under which permanent residence is considered.

2. 02

   Build the evidence pack

   Assemble your passport and evidence of your ties to and residence in Brunei.

3. 03

   Submit through the official channel

   Apply through the official Entry Permit division channel.

4. 04

   After approval

   After approval, hold permanent resident status and keep your re-entry permits valid.

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Related routes

• Permanent Residence (discretionary, long-term)

  For you if you intend to settle in Brunei for life: permanent residence confirms a long-term right to live there - but please read the honesty note, because it is discretionary and typically takes around fifteen years.

• Long-Term Pass (social, business or professional)

  For you if you want a multi-year basis to stay in Brunei: the Long-Term Pass is a newer route with social, business and professional sub-categories - but please read the dated note, because it only took effect at the end of 2024.

• Work Pass (employer-sponsored employment)

  For you if a Brunei employer has offered you a job: the Work Pass is the standard, employer-sponsored route into paid employment, handled by the immigration department's Foreign Work Pass division alongside a valid visa.