Why is Singapore worried about the increase in ‘sham marriages’ to foreign women?
Singapore’s Immigration and Checkpoints Authority (ICA) has raised alarm over a significant rise in "sham marriages" — unions arranged for the sole purpose of securing immigration benefits. These marriages, often arranged by syndicates, predominantly involve Singaporean men marrying foreign women in exchange for payment, granting the women the ability to stay or work in Singapore. The ICA recorded 32 such cases between January and September 2024, a sharp increase compared to just four cases in the same period in 2023.
Budget with ET
Sitharaman likely to give India’s ‘Aam Aadmi’ what they want in Budget?
Can Budget 2025 address India's unemployment woes?
Can the Budget provide a delta to the China plus one effort?
Understanding Sham Marriages and Their Social Impact
Sham marriages are illegal and have raised concerns due to the potential risks they pose in Singapore's multi-ethnic society. These marriages are typically orchestrated by foreign women who pay Singaporean men to marry them, enabling them to secure permits to live or work in the country. Inspector Mark Chai, deputy officer-in-charge of ICA’s intelligence division, explained that the idea of such marriages is “often spread through word of mouth. And to some Singaporean men, it can be seen as easy money.”
While some may view these unions as a simple means to make money, Chai highlighted that these marriages are illegal. He added, «But it is illegal, and the ICA is stepping up enforcement efforts to bust such arrangements.» The rise in sham marriages is viewed not only as a legal issue but also as one that could potentially harm social harmony in Singapore, especially if those involved in these fraudulent marriages engage in criminal activities.
