Creating a Lasting Power of Attorney (LPA) in Singapore is an important step for non-Singaporean residents with assets or interests in the country. It ensures that trusted individuals (donees) can make decisions on your behalf if you lose mental capacity. Here's a comprehensive guide to help you navigate the process of Lasting Power of Attorney for non-Singaporean residents.
Understanding the LPA Forms
The LPA is a legal document that allows you (the donor) to appoint one or more donees to manage your personal welfare and/or property and financial affairs. There are two forms to choose from:
LPA Form 1: Suitable for most people, this form allows you to appoint up to two donees and one replacement donee, granting them general powers.
LPA Form 2: This form is necessary if you want to:
Appoint more than two donees.
Appoint more than one replacement donee.
Grant specific and customised powers to your donees.
Preparing Your LPA Application Online
The process of creating an LPA in Singapore is streamlined and can largely be completed online through the Office of the Public Guardian Online (OPGO) platform. Here’s how you can get started:
Singpass Account: You’ll need a Singpass account to access the OPGO system. Singpass is Singapore’s digital identity platform, which allows you to authenticate yourself and access various online government services.
Donee Information: Before you start your application, gather the following information about your chosen donees:
Full name
NRIC or FIN number
Local mobile number
Email address (optional)
Online Submission: Log into OPGO using your Singpass account and complete the LPA Form 1. Once submitted, your donees will receive an SMS notification prompting them to accept or reject their appointment via OPGO. They must log in with their Singpass accounts to do so.
Visiting a Certificate Issuer
Once your donees have accepted their appointments, your LPA must be certified by a certificate issuer. This step is crucial, as it confirms that you fully understand the implications of creating an LPA and that you are not being coerced into doing so.
Who Can Certify: Certification must be done by one of the following:
A medical professional accredited by the Office of the Public Guardian (OPG).
A registered psychiatrist.
A practising lawyer (excluding those registered under section 36E of the Legal Profession Act 1966).
Digital Certification: Ensure that your chosen certificate issuer can certify your LPA online. You’ll need to download the Singpass app on your mobile device to digitally sign your LPA during the certification process.
Submission: After certification, the certificate issuer will submit the LPA application to OPG on your behalf via OPGO.
Application Fees and Registration
Fees: The application fee is $70 for Singapore Citizens, $90 for permanent residents, and $230 for foreigners. The fee is currently waived for Singapore Citizens who submit their LPA form 1 before 31st March 2026. Once your application is received by OPG, you will be notified via SMS or email to make payment, which can be done online via OPGO.
Registration Process: After submitting your LPA, there is a mandatory 3-week waiting period before it can be registered. During this period, your donees can raise any objections. If no objections are made, your LPA will be registered, usually within 4 weeks. Once registered, you and your donees can view the LPA on OPGO.
Let The Life Legacy Guide You Through the Process
Navigating the LPA process can be complex, especially for non-Singaporean residents unfamiliar with local legal requirements. That’s where The Life Legacy comes in. Specialising in estate planning and LPA services, The Life Legacy offers personalised guidance to ensure your LPA is correctly set up, reflecting your wishes and protecting your interests.
With The Life Legacy’s expertise, you can have peace of mind knowing that your affairs are in good hands, and your loved ones will be well cared for in the event of unforeseen circumstances. Contact The Life Legacy today to safeguard your future and ensure your legacy lives on.
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