Islamic religious education providers teaching 10 or more must register with MUIS

Singapore's Islamic Religious Council of Singapore (MUIS) has introduced new registration requirements for individuals and organizations providing Islamic instruction to 10 or more people. The rules, which began on October 2, 2025, apply to both in-person and online instruction, including home classes and preparatory courses for Umrah and Hajj.

Travel agencies conducting these courses will also need to register as Muslim Religious Schools (MRS). Around 50 entities are expected to be affected by the expanded registration rules, which stem from the Administration of Muslim Law (Amendment) Act 2024 and amendments to subsidiary legislation. Existing registered MRS do not need to re-register and can continue operating under their current registration.

Providers not registered but falling under the MRS definition have until March 31, 2027, to submit their applications. Registered providers must ensure instruction is delivered by recognized religious teachers (asatizah) and use verified Islamic curricula. Registration is free, and providers must comply with the Asatizah Recognition Scheme, which requires a degree for new applicants seeking Tier 1 recognition.

The number of registered MRS and Islamic education centers has increased from 303 in 2017 to 475 in 2025, with a corresponding rise in the number of recognized religious teachers from 4,744 to 5,205.