Fostering a child is one of the most meaningful things you can do for a young person in need—and for yourself. But if you’ve ever wondered how to foster a child in Singapore or how to be a foster parent in Singapore, you’re not alone. Many individuals and couples are open to the idea but unsure of how the process works, what it involves, or whether they’re eligible.
This guide walks you through what it takes, how to get started, and what to expect along the way. Whether you’re looking to provide temporary care or just starting to explore the idea, we’ll make things simple and easy to understand.
What Does Fostering Really Mean?
Fostering is providing a safe and stable home for children under 18 who cannot live with their birth families. These children may have gone through neglect, abuse, or family challenges, and they need a nurturing environment—sometimes for just a few months, other times for years.
Unlike adoption, fostering is temporary. The goal is to reunite children with their biological families when possible, but until then, foster parents step in to offer the care, love, and support they need
Who Can Foster A Child In Singapore?
If you’re wondering how to be a foster parent in Singapore, here’s the good news: You don’t need to be perfect. What matters is your ability to provide a loving and safe environment.
You may be eligible if you:
- Are you a Singapore Citizen or Permanent Resident
- Are married (singles may still apply and will be considered on a case-by-case basis)
- Are at least 25 years old
- Have a minimum monthly household income of $2,000
- Are medically and emotionally fit to care for a child
- Pass a home study and background check
Foster parents come from all walks of life—some are working adults, others are stay-at-home parents. What they share is a heart for children and the patience to walk with them through difficult times.
How To Become A Foster Parent In Singapore
If you’re thinking seriously about fostering, you might be wondering what the process looks like from start to finish. The good news? The steps are clear, and support is available every step of the way. Here’s a closer look at how to become a foster parent in Singapore.
1. Express Your Interest
Your journey starts with a simple step—getting in touch. You can register your interest through the Ministry of Social and Family Development (MSF) or its appointed agencies like Epworth Community Services, Boys’ Town or PPIS.
Once you’ve expressed interest, you’ll be invited to attend a briefing session where the fostering framework and expectations are explained in an open, informative setting.
2. Submit An Application
If you feel ready to proceed, you’ll be asked to fill out a formal application form. This includes providing personal details, and background information, and sharing your motivation for wanting to foster.
You’ll also need to submit supporting documents, such as identification and income statements, to help assess your suitability.
3. Go Through Interviews And Home Visits
This is a key part of the process. Trained social workers will conduct a series of interviews with you and your household members. These conversations help them understand your lifestyle, parenting approach, and readiness for fostering. They’ll also visit your home to ensure it’s a safe, clean, and secure space for a child.
Don’t worry—you’re not being judged. These checks are in place to protect the well-being of the child and ensure a good match between you and the foster child.
4. Attend A Preparatory Training Programme
All prospective foster parents must complete a series of training sessions. These are practical, eye-opening, and often very moving. You’ll learn about the needs of foster children, how to manage trauma and attachment issues, and how to work with social workers and biological families. This training helps you build confidence and prepare emotionally for the responsibility ahead.
5. Approval And Matching
Once you’ve completed all the requirements and the assessment team is confident in your readiness, your application will be approved. From here, the agency will begin the matching process. When a child needs care and your home is deemed suitable, you’ll be contacted and briefed before the child is placed with you.
Sometimes this happens quickly, especially when there’s an urgent need. In other cases, it may take a bit of time to find the right match. Patience and flexibility go a long way.
6. Ongoing Support After Placement
Fostering doesn’t stop at placement. You’ll receive continued guidance from your assigned social worker, who will check in regularly. You’ll also have access to support groups, training refreshers, and 24/7 assistance for emergencies. MSF provides a monthly fostering allowance to help with the child’s daily expenses, along with medical subsidies and emotional support services.
Conclusion About Becoming A Foster Parent In Singapore
Fostering a child is a big step, but you don’t have to take it alone. At Tembusu Law, we understand the emotional and legal complexities involved—especially if the child’s placement intersects with other family matters like Divorce or Court proceedings.
If you’re planning to foster and want to understand your rights or obligations, speak to the best Divorce and family lawyers in Singapore. We’re here to guide you with compassion and clarity.
Contact Tembusu Law today—because every child deserves a safe place to call home.
Frequently Asked Questions About Becoming A Foster Parent In Singapore
How Long Does It Take To Become A Foster Parent In Singapore?
The process typically takes around 3 to 6 months. This includes application screening, home visits, interviews, and training sessions. Timelines may vary based on how quickly each step is completed.
Can Single People Apply To Be Foster Parents?
Yes, single individuals can apply. Applications from single applicants are assessed on a case-by-case basis to ensure they can provide a stable and nurturing environment.
Will I Be Able To Choose The Age Or Gender Of The Foster Child?
You can indicate your preferences during the matching process. While the authorities try to accommodate these preferences, flexibility often leads to quicker and more suitable placements.
Is Fostering The Same As Adoption?
No, fostering is a temporary care arrangement. The goal is to provide a safe home while efforts are made to reunite the child with their birth family. Adoption, on the other hand, is a permanent legal process.
Can I Foster More Than One Child?
Yes, it is possible to foster more than one child if your home and situation allow for it. This may include siblings or separate placements, depending on your capacity and suitability.
