Work Passes & Visas
An overview of Singapore's key work passes for foreign professionals, entrepreneurs, and executives — eligibility criteria, salary thresholds, and application process.
Key Work Passes at a Glance
Employment Pass (EP)
Foreign professionals, managers, and executives employed by a Singapore-registered company.
- ✓Allows you to work for the sponsoring employer only
- ✓Eligible to apply for Dependant's Pass for immediate family
- ✓COMPASS points-based assessment framework applies for new applications from Sept 2023
- ✓Employer must advertise on MyCareersFuture before applying (FCF requirement)
EntrePass
Foreign entrepreneurs who want to start and operate a venture-backed or innovative business in Singapore.
- ✓Suitable for founders who cannot qualify for EP (no employer to sponsor)
- ✓Company must be incorporated within 6 months prior to application
- ✓Must be an innovative business — not eligible for F&B, hawker, or retail
- ✓Assessed on funding, IP, partnerships with research institutions, or awards received
ONE Pass (Overseas Networks & Expertise)
Exceptional global talent in business, arts & culture, sports, science & technology, and academia/research.
- ✓Allows concurrent work for multiple employers or own businesses
- ✓Spouse of ONE Pass holder may work freely in Singapore
- ✓Exceptionally high bar — targeted at globally recognised individuals
- ✓No need for a job offer before applying
Tech.Pass
Established tech entrepreneurs, leaders, and technical experts with strong track records in the technology sector.
- ✓Allows multiple activities: work for companies, start own ventures, and invest
- ✓Must meet at least 2 of 3 criteria: salary, funding raised, or tech experience
- ✓Applications accepted in specific windows announced by EDB/MOM
- ✓Strong preference for deep tech, AI, and high-growth sector founders
S Pass
Mid-skilled foreign workers with relevant qualifications and job experience.
- ✓Employer must pay a monthly levy for each S Pass holder
- ✓Quota limits apply — check sector-specific allowances before hiring
- ✓Candidate must have degree/diploma or at least 1 year relevant work experience
- ✓Not suitable for founders or self-employed individuals
Dependant's Pass (DP)
Spouse and children under 21 of EP, S Pass, and ONE Pass holders (and Long-Term Visit Pass for other dependants).
- ✓DP holders may apply for a Letter of Consent (LOC) to work
- ✓If principal holds ONE Pass, spouse of DP holder can work without LOC
- ✓Long-Term Visit Pass (LTVP) for common-law partners and elderly parents
- ✓Children may attend local or international schools
Employment Pass Application Process
Typical timeline: 3–8 weeks from submission to issuance.
Incorporate Company
A Singapore-registered company is required to sponsor EP applications. EntrePass is the exception for pre-revenue founders.
FCF Compliance
For EP: advertise the role on MyCareersFuture for ≥28 days before applying, unless the role is exempt (salary > S$22,500/month or EntrePass).
COMPASS Assessment
EP applications from Sept 2023 are subject to the COMPASS points-based framework. Ensure your candidate scores ≥40 points across salary, qualifications, diversity, and support for local employment.
Submit via EP Online
Employer or appointed employment agent submits application via MOM's EP Online portal. Processing typically takes 3–8 weeks.
In-Principle Approval (IPA)
Upon approval, an IPA letter is issued. The candidate may travel to Singapore and register the pass.
Pass Issuance
Candidate attends the Employment Pass Services Centre (EPSC) or completes eRegistration to receive the physical pass card.
Need an Office Address for Your EP Application?
A registered business address is required at company incorporation and for work pass applications. SpaceCycle provides virtual office, serviced office, and physical leasing solutions tailored to foreign businesses setting up in Singapore.
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