Singapore authorities are increasingly concerned about the rise in ‘sham marriages’ or marriages of convenience between Singaporean men and foreign women. There is often syndicate involvement that could lead to social issues. The Immigration and Checkpoints Authority (ICA) reported an increase in “sham marriage” cases.
There were 4 cases in 2023 between January to September. The cases have increased up to 32 between January and September last year.
According to a media report, the ICA cited vigorous investigations into a suspected syndicate orchestrating these arrangements. Singaporean men were paid to marry foreign women. The goal of these “sham marriages” is for foreign women to obtain a permit to stay or work in Singapore.
Inspector Mark Chai, deputy officer-in-charge of ICA’s intelligence division, noted the increase in such cases as a social concern in multi-ethnic Singapore as it could lead to illicit activities by these foreigners. He attributed the rise to more foreigners seeking to extend their visit passes to continue staying and working in the country. He added that the concept of such marriages spreads through word of mouth and to some Singaporean men.
ICA’s Intensified Efforts and Public Involvement
However, the ICA is intensifying enforcement efforts to dismantle these illegal arrangements. Convicted individuals involved in marriages of convenience face up to 10 years in jail, a fine of up to SGD10,000, or both. Superintendent Goh Wee Kiat, a senior assistant director at ICA’s intelligence division, reported that public tip-offs flag most cases. He urged the public to report suspected cases, assuring them that all information would be treated with the strictest confidence.
In one notable instance, a Singaporean mother was unaware of her son’s marriage which is an unusual situation for such a significant life event. Another case involved a wife living away from her husband’s house, leading to his arrest for making a false declaration.
In June 2024, authorities charged 13 individuals, including 6 Vietnamese women and 7 Singaporean men, for their alleged involvement in marriages of convenience. The ICA continues to monitor and act against such cases to prevent further social problems.
