NSmen going overseas need to apply for exit permit only for trips of 12 months or longer

27 Feb 2023

In the Ministry of Defence (Mindef)’s budget debate yesterday, it was mentioned that operationally ready national servicemen going overseas for an extended period need to apply for an exit permit only for trips of 12 months or longer, compared with six months now. The change is part of Mindef’s efforts to improve the NS experience, alongside other initiatives to maximise servicemen’s contributions. The Singapore Armed Forces (SAF) has also expanded its work-learn schemes for full-time national servicemen (NSFs) who want to gain academic qualifications while contributing to Singapore’s defence. A sixth scheme, which is a tie-up with SP, had just been introduced for NSFs to pursue a Diploma in Engineering (Mechanical Technology) and be deployed as naval warfare system specialists. Similar news reported in Channel NewsAsia, Berita Harian, Lianhe Zaobao, 8world and Berita Mediacorp.