National Service (NS)
National Service
National Service is compulsory duty that male Singapore Citizens and second-generation Permanent Residents must serve, usually starting around age 18. Most serve about two years of full-time service in the Singapore Armed Forces, the Police Force or the Civil Defence Force. After completing full-time service, they become operationally ready and can be called back for periodic training and duties for years afterward. Deferment may be granted in limited cases such as tertiary studies. Failing to fulfil NS obligations, including leaving the country without an exit permit, carries penalties. Service length and specific obligations are subject to the latest rules.