NSFs in SAF, SPF, and SCDF to receive S$35–S$75 allowance increase from 1 July

All full-time national servicemen (NSFs) serving in the Singapore Armed Forces (SAF), Singapore Police Force (SPF), and Singapore Civil Defence Force (SCDF) will receive an increase in their monthly allowances, ranging from S$35 to S$75, starting 1 July 2025.

This revision represents an approximate 4% to 5% increase for most servicemen, with allowances varying based on rank and vocation.

The announcement was made by Senior Minister of State for Defence Heng Chee How on 3 March during the Ministry of Defence’s (MINDEF) Budget debate in Parliament. Heng emphasised that NSF allowances are regularly reviewed to ensure they remain adequate for personal upkeep and to recognise the contributions of servicemen.

With this revision, a recruit or trainee will see their allowance rise from S$755 to S$790, while an NSF naval diver, police tactical trooper, or firefighter holding the rank of corporal will have their monthly allowance increased from S$1,250 to S$1,290.

The highest allowance, at the rank of officer cadet or equivalent, will be S$1,955.

This marks the fourth adjustment to NSF allowances in the past decade. The most recent increase, in July 2023, saw allowances rise by S$125 to S$200, depending on rank and vocation.

Calls for higher NSF remuneration

During the debate, Workers’ Party Member of Parliament Gerald Giam (Aljunied GRC) called for a more significant increase in NSF allowances.

He argued that while national defence remains the primary objective of National Service (NS), it should also serve as an investment in human capital.

Giam suggested that the median NSF allowance should be raised to at least S$1,600 per month, reflecting the contributions of NSFs, particularly in their second year, when they take on fully operational roles.

He also proposed that NSFs receive a salary with Central Provident Fund (CPF) contributions instead of an “allowance.”

“The argument that duty and employment are mutually exclusive is flawed. SAF regulars are paid market salaries while serving the same national defence mission. NSFs make personal sacrifices, delaying their education, career, and sometimes even marriage and children because of NS,” Giam stated.

He further urged MINDEF to help NSFs transition smoothly to further education by coordinating with universities to minimise delays between their Operationally Ready Date (ORD) and the start of their studies.

He also recommended that NS training incorporate more skills applicable to civilian careers, transforming NS into a “launchpad for future opportunities rather than an educational and career detour.”

MINDEF’s response

Responding to Giam, Heng reiterated that the government recognises and values the contributions of NSFs and that the allowance reflects this appreciation. He highlighted that the allowance is reviewed regularly to ensure it remains sufficient, with adjustments made as necessary.

Heng also noted that beyond financial support, efforts are in place to help NSFs transition to work and studies post-NS. He cited a 2022 study by the Institute of Policy Studies, which found that 70% of Singaporeans believed NS was beneficial in acquiring skills useful for civilian employment.

“The last adjustment was made in July 2023, and following our latest review, we will raise NSF monthly allowances by between S$35 to S$75 from 1 July this year. With the change, NSF allowances will range from S$790 to S$1,955, depending on rank and vocation,” Heng said.

Heng reaffirmed that the government remains committed to supporting NSFs, both during and after their service, ensuring that NS continues to be a meaningful and well-supported experience for all servicemen.