A new pass for Global Talent: the ONE Pass in Singapore

To increase the attractiveness of Top Talent, the Ministry of Manpower (MOM) in Singapore has introduced a new pass for Global Talent, called the Overseas Network & Expertise Pass (ONE Pass). This pass will come into effect from 1 January 2023.

This new pass is aimed at top talents working in the business, arts and culture, science and technology, academic or research sectors.

How is the ONE pass different from other working visas in Singapore?

The ONE Pass, available from 1 January 2023, is a personalized five-year work permit that allows the holder to set up, manage and work for multiple companies in Singapore simultaneously.

Unlike the EP, the visa will be attached to the individual and not to the employing company (this means that the holder will not have to re-apply if the employer changes and will not have to prove employment in Singapore prior to applying for the visa (if the overseas income requirement is met).

What are the requirements for obtaining the ONE Pass?

There are two separate ways to apply for the ONE Pass.

1. Salary qualification

Applicants who are already in Singapore will need to earn a minimum monthly salary of at least SGD 30,000 in the year prior to application or demonstrate that they will earn this minimum salary in their future employment in Singapore.

Applicants outside Singapore will also need to demonstrate that they have worked in the year preceding their application in a company that qualifies as established. An established company qualifies if it has a market capitalization of at least USD 500M or annual revenues of at least USD 200M for a period of at least one year prior to the application.

2. Outstanding achievers

In addition, it should be noted that persons officially recognized for their outstanding achievements in the fields of arts and culture, sports, science and technology, and research and academia may be exempt from the salary requirement for the application of this ONE Pass. Further explanations are expected to be released by MOM before 1 January 2023.

What are the benefits of the ONE Pass?

1. Increased visa validity duration: 5 years renewable for 5 years each time.
2. Significant flexibility to start and manage an activity and/or to work for different companies at the same time.
3. Simplification of MOM procedures as it is no longer necessary to re-apply when changing employers.
4. Access to Singaporean employment will be facilitated for the spouse of a ONE Pass holder who will be able to work under a Letter of Consent.

What are the benefits of the ONE Pass?

Yes! Dependant Pass of spouses applied under the ONE Pass will be eligible to obtain a Letter of Consent (LOC) from the Ministry of Manpower and allowed to work in Singapore. For Spouses, the Dependant Pass will also be valid for the remaining duration of the ONE pass validity. This means that the DP under the ONE pass in Singapore could be valid up to 5 years and will require less renewals.

For several individuals, the ONE pass will also be an opportunity for spouses to live and work in Singapore under the LOC that is specifically facilitated for ONE Pass’ dependants.

It is also possible for DP holders to work either with:

• A work permit (provided the hiring company has sufficient quota)
• A self-owned business (with at least 30% shareholding and directorship)
• Apply for their own pass, either the S Pass of the Employment Pass.

A pass targeted at global talents

The ONE Pass would strengthen Singapore’s position as a global hub for talent, allowing employers to be more responsive and nimble business needs by competing for Global talent.

Steps and Procedures to move in Singapore

Moving in Singapore requires a very structured approach of which the steps are detailed below in regard of the ONE Pass. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to handle your Singapore professional and personal plans:

1. Check your eligibility:

Before you begin the process, make sure you meet the eligibility criteria for a work visa.

• You can broadly check if you meet the requirements for the ONE pass and then you can receive assistance to ensure that you fill the detailed requirements.
• If you do not qualify for the ONE pass, you should have a job offer from a Singaporean employer. This involves possessing the necessary qualifications, and meeting the age and health requirements. The other available passes are the S Pass, Employment Pass (EP), Work Permit, EntrePass and Personalised Employment Pass (PEP).
• One of the major requirements for pass eligibility in Singapore is the monthly salary.

2. Choose the right visa:

There are different types of work visas available in Singapore, including Employment Pass, S Pass, and Work Permit. Determine which one is appropriate for your job and qualifications:

• The ONE pass is the most flexible visa and also allows to stay and work several jobs in Singapore for 5 years but requires a high monthly salary.
• The Employment Pass (EP) is the preferred visa for expatriates in Singapore since the requirements allow for highly qualified to come and work under a company and bring relatives. The duration can be up to 3 years.
• The EntrePass is a visa designed specifically for entrepreneurs willing to start a company in Singapore. This visa is specifically designed for serial founders.
• The Personalised Employment Pass (PEP) is a one time (non renewable) visa designed to give extra flexibility for individuals with monthly revenues above the standard EP requirements.
• The S Pass is designed for semi-skilled employees with medium salaries and qualifications but is subject to a quota within each company.
• The Work Permit is limited to some Asian citizens and for low skill/ qualifications workers (with a citizenship exemption for some Dependant Pass holders) and is linked to stringent worker requirements (e.g., frequent health check).
• Apply for your visa: Submit your application online through the Ministry of Manpower’s website. You’ll need to provide personal information, employment details, and supporting documents.

3. Wait for approval:

Processing times vary depending on the type of visa you’re applying for. It typically takes around 1-3 weeks for the Employment Pass and about 4 weeks for the ONE Pass. You can check the status of your application online.

The MOM can revert with further questions, documents requests and clarification points. They can be in regard of your revenues and salaries’ details if you are applying to the ONE Pass. For instance, Employment Pass employers have to justify the financial soundness of their company in order to support additional salary expenses.

All applicants should also ensure of the legitimacy of the information provided. This includes candidate’s diplomas which authenticity has to be verified as the MOM can from time to time require proofs.

4. Obtain your visa:

Once your visa is approved, you will receive an In-Principle Approval (IPA) letter. This letter states that the MOM is willing to accept the applicant’s demand. The last step is to issue the pass, which involves:

• The validation of the applicant’s contact details and travel plans
• Indeed, the pass can only be issued upon the applicant’s physical presence in Singapore. The issuance fees are SGD 255 and include a multi entry visa.
• Upon issuance, the applicant is allowed to start working in Singapore.
• Scheduling an appointment with the MOM to undergo a medical examination (depending on the pass), picture and fingerprinting.
• The physical visa/pass card can be sent to your employer’s office or to your own address depending on the type of pass.

5. Set up in Singapore:

Once you have your visa, you will need to find accommodation and register for important services such as a bank account, mobile phone plan, and public transportation. Singapore is highly digitalized and many public services require the use of SingPass. SingPass is the app that centralize personal information and can be used to log in public services and some private/company websites.

Once the pass obtained it is possible to leave and re enter Singapore through the express immigration lanes with the passport (the visa/ pass can be required too).

Overall, the process of obtaining a work visa in Singapore can be complex, but with the right guidance and preparation, it is a smooth and straightforward experience. Make sure to do your research and plan ahead to ensure a successful immigration and integration process.

Our other articles about immigration

If you consider coming to Singapore to run your business, work under a company, come with your spouse and family, you might also check our below articles:

• All about the Singapore Employment Pass with the new COMPASS Framework
• Secure a Dependant Pass (DP) for your Spouse to come and work in Singapore
• Tax Residency in Singapore: If I work overseas do I pay taxes?
• Learn everything about the Stamp Duty for shares and calculator in Singapore

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