Comprehensive Guide
Work & Family Passes
Everything you need to know about Employment Pass, S Pass, Dependant's Pass, and Long-Term Visit Pass. Detailed eligibility, application steps, and exclusive insider tips.
Everything you need to know about Employment Pass, S Pass, Dependant's Pass, and Long-Term Visit Pass. Detailed eligibility, application steps, and exclusive insider tips.
The Work Permit is for semi-skilled foreign workers in specific sectors. It's the most common work pass in Singapore, with strict quotas, levies, and source country restrictions.
Source Country
Workers must be from approved source countries (varies by sector)
Age Limit
18-50 years old for most sectors (can work until 60)
Quota & Levy
Employers must have available quota and pay monthly levy ($300-$950)
Security Bond
$5,000 bond required for non-Malaysian workers
Malaysia, China, India, Sri Lanka, Thailand, Bangladesh, Myanmar, Philippines
Malaysia, China, Hong Kong, Macau, South Korea, Taiwan + Non-Traditional Sources (NTS)
Malaysia, China, Hong Kong, Macau, South Korea, Taiwan
Philippines, Indonesia, Myanmar, India, Sri Lanka, Thailand, Cambodia, Bangladesh
Work Permit holders face more restrictions than EP/S Pass holders: cannot apply for PR, no family members allowed, limited job changes, and tied to a specific employer. The pass is cancelled upon termination, and workers must leave Singapore unless they secure a new job quickly.
The S Pass is for mid-level skilled workers with relevant qualifications. Unlike the EP, it's subject to quota and levy requirements, making it more restrictive for employers.
Minimum Salary
$3,150/month (higher for older, more experienced candidates)
Qualifications
Diploma or degree, with at least 1 year of relevant experience
Employer Quota
Company must have available S Pass quota (10-18% of workforce)
S Pass Quota by Sector
Monthly Levy (paid by employer)
If your salary increases above $5,000/month and you meet EP qualifications, you can request your employer to convert your S Pass to an EP. This removes quota restrictions and makes it easier to bring family members.
The Employment Pass is Singapore's premier work visa for foreign professionals, managers, executives, and specialists. It's the most sought-after pass with direct pathway to Permanent Residency.
Minimum Salary
From $5,000/month for young graduates, scaling up to $10,500+ for experienced professionals in their 40s
Acceptable Qualifications
Good university degree, professional qualifications, or specialist skills
Job Offer
Must have a job offer from a Singapore-registered company
COMPASS Points (from Sep 2023)
Must score at least 40 points under COMPASS framework
| Age | Non-Financial Sector | Financial Sector |
|---|---|---|
| 23 and below | $5,000 | $5,500 |
| Mid 20s | $5,500 | $6,000 |
| Early 30s | $7,500 | $8,250 |
| Late 30s | $9,500 | $10,450 |
| 45 and above | $10,500+ | $11,550+ |
*Salaries increase progressively with age and experience
Since September 2023, all new EP applications must pass the Complementarity Assessment Framework (COMPASS). You need at least 40 points to qualify.
+10 pts each for: Skills shortage occupation, Strategic Economic Priorities partnership with government
Your employer submits application via EP Online
Processing takes 3-8 weeks typically
IPA letter valid for 6 months to enter Singapore
Complete formalities and collect EP card
Before applying, use MOM's official COMPASS Self-Assessment Tool to estimate your points. This helps identify weak areas you can address. Also, ensure your employer has a strong local hiring track record. Companies with poor C4 scores face higher rejection rates regardless of individual qualifications.
The ONE Pass is Singapore's most exclusive work pass for top-tier global talent. It offers unprecedented flexibility: work for multiple employers, start your own businesses, and bring your family without income restrictions.
Fixed Monthly Salary
Earning at least $30,000/month in the past year
Future Salary
Will earn at least $30,000/month working in Singapore
Outstanding Achievements
Exceptional record in arts, sports, science, academia, or research
Unlike EP, you can apply for the ONE Pass yourself without employer sponsorship. This makes it ideal for entrepreneurs or those exploring opportunities. Apply via MOM's website with your salary history, CV, and supporting documents for outstanding achievements.
The PEP is designed for high-earning professionals who want flexibility to switch employers without reapplying for a new pass. It's not tied to any employer, giving you greater career mobility in Singapore.
For Overseas Professionals:
Last drawn fixed monthly salary of at least $22,500 within 6 months before application
For EP Holders in Singapore:
Current fixed monthly salary of at least $22,500
The PEP is valid for 3 years only and cannot be renewed. After it expires, you must apply for an EP with a sponsoring employer, or switch to another eligible pass like ONE Pass. Plan your career transition accordingly.
The EntrePass is for entrepreneurs looking to start and operate an innovative, technology-driven business in Singapore. It's ideal for founders with venture backing, intellectual property, or strong business track records.
Funded by recognized VC or angel investor, or incubated by a government-supported accelerator.
Min. Funding: $100,000
Track record of investing in high-growth startups with successful exits.
Strong portfolio required
Track record building successful companies with $50M+ revenue or valuation.
Business experience required
EntrePass holders must meet business milestones to renew. MOM evaluates your company's progress based on:
Total Business Spending
Local Employment Created
Revenue Growth
External Funding Raised
Getting into a government-supported accelerator (like SGInnovate, BLOCK71, or EDB-affiliated programs) significantly strengthens your EntrePass application. These endorsements signal legitimacy and often come with co-investment opportunities.
The Tech.Pass is designed for established tech entrepreneurs, leaders, and technical experts. Issued by EDB (Economic Development Board), it attracts top tech talent to contribute to Singapore's digital economy.
Salary Criterion
Last drawn monthly salary of at least $22,500 at a tech company
Leadership Criterion
5+ years leading product/engineering in tech company valued at $500M+ or $30M+ funding
Founder Criterion
Founded tech company valued at $500M+ or $30M+ funding
| Criteria | Tech.Pass | ONE Pass |
|---|---|---|
| Issuing Authority | EDB | MOM |
| Focus | Tech industry specifically | All industries |
| Salary Requirement | $22,500/month | $30,000/month |
| Validity | 2 years | 5 years |
| Best For | Tech founders & leaders | High earners in any field |
Tech.Pass applications go through EDB, not MOM. The process focuses on your tech credentials and contribution potential. If you're borderline on salary but have strong founder credentials (e.g., sold a company, led engineering at a unicorn), emphasize those achievements in your application.
The Dependant's Pass allows legally married spouses and unmarried children under 21 to live in Singapore with an EP or S Pass holder.
Main Pass Holder Salary
EP/S Pass holder must earn at least $6,000/month
Legal Marriage
Must be legally married. Same-sex marriages are not recognized in Singapore.
Children Requirements
Must be unmarried, under 21 years old, and legally recognized children
Good news! DP holders can work in Singapore by obtaining a Letter of Consent (LOC).
DP holders can apply for Singapore PR! If you've worked on LOC and built a career here, include your employment history and tax contributions in your PR application.
Pro tip: Back up your intention to stay with evidence. Long-term investment plans, insurance policies, child education savings, and legacy planning are the only documents that can truly demonstrate future commitment and stability. Words say you'll stay, but financial planning proves it.
The LTVP is for family members who don't qualify for the Dependant's Pass, including common-law spouses, stepchildren, parents, and handicapped children over 21.
Common-Law Spouse
Requires pass holder earning min. $6,000/month
Parents of Pass Holder
Requires pass holder earning min. $12,000/month
Stepchildren
Unmarried stepchildren under 21
Handicapped Children Over 21
Unmarried children with disabilities
LTVP holders have limited work rights compared to DP holders. Here's what you need to know:
Option 1: LTVP+
If you qualify for LTVP+, you can work without applying for LOC. LTVP+ is typically issued to spouses of Singapore citizens.
Option 2: Pre-approved LOC
Some LTVP holders may receive pre-approved LOC. Check your LTVP letter for work eligibility status.
Option 3: Apply for Work Pass
If neither applies, you'll need to find an employer to sponsor a separate work pass (EP or S Pass).
| Criteria | Dependant's Pass | LTVP |
|---|---|---|
| Eligible Family | Legally married spouse, children under 21 | Common-law spouse, parents, stepchildren |
| Min. Sponsor Salary | $6,000/month | $6,000 - $12,000/month |
| Work Rights | LOC available (easy) | Limited (may need LTVP+ or separate pass) |
| Validity | Tied to sponsor's pass | Tied to sponsor's pass |
| PR Pathway | Eligible to apply | Eligible to apply |
When the main pass holder's EP or S Pass is cancelled (e.g., job loss, resignation), the DP and LTVP are automatically cancelled too. Dependants typically have 30 days to leave Singapore unless they secure an alternative visa. Plan ahead if your employment situation changes.
The Student Pass allows foreign students to pursue full-time studies at approved educational institutions in Singapore. It's the gateway to world-class education in Asia's leading academic hub.
Admission Offer
Accepted for full-time course at an approved educational institution
Approved Institutions
Government-funded schools, universities, polytechnics, or private institutions with EduTrust certification
Financial Means
Proof of funds to cover tuition and living expenses
Local Sponsor
Singapore citizen or PR as local sponsor (for most applications)
Automatic Work Permission
Students at approved universities and polytechnics can work up to 16 hours/week during term time, unlimited during vacations.
Private Institution Students
Generally not allowed to work, unless on industrial attachment as part of course requirements.
Key Details
Graduates from Singapore universities have a smoother transition to Employment Pass. The Long-Term Visit Pass (LTVP) for job-seeking is available for 1 year after graduation. Many employers value local education, and salary benchmarks for EP are sometimes lower for local graduates.
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