Temporary Guardianship in SG

Being a parent is a full-time responsibility, and with it comes the lifelong duty of ensuring your child’s safety, well-being, and care. While most parents plan for the best—dreaming of a thriving home and future—it is equally important to prepare for the unexpected. What would happen to your children if you were suddenly unable to care for them?

Why Temporary Guardianship Matters

In Singapore, many parents address long-term care through wills, which specify legal guardianship in the event of their passing. However, there is often a gap between a parent’s death and the execution of the will through probate—a process that may take weeks or even months. During this period, there may be uncertainty about who is responsible for the child.

This is where temporary guardianship becomes crucial. It ensures that your child is placed under the immediate care of a trusted individual until legal arrangements are finalized.

What is a Temporary Guardian?

A temporary guardian is someone you appoint to look after your minor children on a short-term basis in the event that you pass away or become incapacitated. Unlike a permanent guardian (often named in a will), a temporary guardian provides immediate care and support during transitional periods.

Key Qualities of a Temporary Guardian:

• Someone you trust deeply
• Ideally familiar to your children
• Able to act on short notice
• Preferably located in Singapore or willing to relocate immediately

What is a Deed of Temporary Guardianship (DTG)?

A Deed of Appointment of Temporary Guardianship (DTG) is a legal document that formally appoints an individual to act as the temporary guardian of your child. It provides clarity for authorities and ensures that there is no confusion or delay in care during an emergency.

The DTG includes:

• The name of the guardian
• Their relationship to the child
• Duration and scope of guardianship
• Responsibilities expected of them
• Contact details
• Witness signatures to formalize the document

How to Appoint a Temporary Guardian in Singapore

You can draft a Temporary Guardianship Letter, a legal document that outlines the appointment. While you can write this letter yourself, it is often advisable to consult a legal professional to ensure it is valid and enforceable.

Steps to Take:

1. Choose your guardian(s) carefully.
2. Draft the letter, clearly stating:
   • Full names and NRIC/passport numbers
   • Duration of guardianship
   • Specific powers or limitations
3. Sign the document in the presence of a witness.
4. Store copies safely and share them with the guardian and relevant family members.
5. Keep contact information updated, so authorities can act swiftly in emergencies.

Planning for temporary guardianship may be uncomfortable, but it is a powerful act of love and responsibility. By taking this step, you ensure that your children will be cared for without delay by someone you trust, even in your absence.

Sources:

Altomonte, S. (2021) ‘How legal guardianship works in Singapore: what happens to the children and who gets custody?’, HoneyKids Asia, 11 January. Available at: https://honeykidsasia.com/legal-guardianship-in-singapore/ (Accessed: 6 May 2025).

Guardianship in Singapore - Why a temporary guardianship letter is a must (no date). Available at: https://expatliving.sg/guardianship-in-singapore-what-happens-to-children-if-both-parents-die/ (Accessed: 6 May 2025).

Singapore Temporary Guardians (no date). Available at: https://www.noblewills.com/en-sg/services/deed-of-temporary-guardianship/ (Accessed: 6 May 2025).

This material is intended for educational and informational purposes only. It is not intended to provide specific advice or recommendations for any individual. Additionally, you should consult with your Financial Advisor, Tax Advisor, or Attorney on your specific situation. The views expressed in the material are that of the author and do not necessarily reflect those of any market, regulatory body, State or Federal Agency, or Association. All efforts have been made to report or share true and accurate information. However, the information may become materially outdated or otherwise rendered incorrect due to subsequent new research or other changes, without notice. The author nor the firm are able to always verify the content from third-party sources. For additional information about the firm, please visit the MAS Website at https://www.mas.gov.sg/  and the SEC Website at www.adviserinfo.sec.gov. For a copy of the firm's ADV Part 2 Brochure, please contact us at info@avriowealth.com.