The Complete Guide to Singapore Work and Family Passes [2026 Edition]

Singapore remains one of the world’s most attractive destinations for global talent and business owners. Its robust economy, safety, and strategic location make it a top choice for expatriates. However, moving to the Lion City requires navigating the specific frameworks set by the Ministry of Manpower (MOM).

Singapore offers a distinct tier of work passes to categorise foreign talent by income, skills, and job scope. Furthermore, professionals who establish themselves here often wish to bring their loved ones, which requires a clear understanding of Dependant and Long-Term Visit Passes.

Misunderstanding the nuances between an Employment Pass, a ONE Pass, or an EntrePass can lead to costly delays and rejected applications. Furthermore, for professionals relocating their lives, understanding how to bring spouses and children is not just a logistical detail, but a personal priority.

This guide provides a strategic overview of the essential work and family passes available in Singapore. It is designed to help you identify the right immigration pathways to support your business goals and ensure a smooth transition for your team and their families.

1. Professionals & Executives: Employment Pass (EP) & ONE Pass

For foreign professionals taking up managerial, executive, or specialized roles, the Employment Pass (EP) is the standard route.

Employment Pass (EP) The EP is tied to a specific employer. To qualify, candidates typically need a valid job offer in Singapore and must meet strict qualification standards, including a degree from a reputable university or significant professional experience.

• Salary: Generally, a minimum fixed monthly salary of S$5,000 is required for new graduates, with higher requirements for experienced candidates.
• Validity: Initially issued for up to 2 years and is renewable.
• Perks: EP holders can apply for Permanent Residence (PR) and, subject to salary thresholds, bring family members.

Overseas Networks and Expertise (ONE) Pass Launched to attract the world’s absolute top talent, the ONE Pass is a personalized visa for high-earners in business, arts, sports, science, and academia.

• Flexibility: Unlike the EP, the ONE Pass is not tied to a single employer. Holders can work for multiple companies or start their own business.
• Duration: It offers a generous 5-year validity.
• Spousal Benefits: Spouses of ONE Pass holders can work in Singapore via a Letter of Consent (LOC).

2. Entrepreneurs: The EntrePass

If your goal is to build a venture from the ground up, the EntrePass is designed for you. This pass allows foreign entrepreneurs to act as the local director of their company.

To qualify, you must have incorporated a company (or intend to) and meet at least one innovative criterion, such as:

• Raising S$100,000 from a recognized VC or angel investor.
• Holding intellectual property (IP) that provides a competitive edge.
• Research collaboration with a Singaporean institute.
• A solid track record of business success or international recognition.

3. High-Flexibility Options: Personalised Employment Pass (PEP)

The PEP is a premium pass for top-tier professionals who want job flexibility. It acts as a “free agent” pass, meaning you can switch employers without reapplying for a visa, provided you are not unemployed for more than six months.

• Who is it for? Existing EP holders earning at least S$12,000/month, or overseas foreign professionals earning S$18,000/month.
• Limitations: It is valid for 3 years, non-renewable, and does not allow holders to start their own business (unlike the EntrePass).

4. Mid-Skilled Talent: S Pass

The S Pass targets mid-level technical staff. Unlike the EP, the S Pass is subject to a quota system (Levy and Dependency Ratio Ceiling). The number of S Pass holders a company can hire is capped at 15% of its total workforce in the service sector and 20% in other sectors.

• Salary: The minimum qualifying wage has been adjusted progressively, currently at S$3,150 (as of Sept 2023) and set to rise to S$3,300 by Sept 2025.
• Duration: Valid for up to 2 years and renewable.

5. Family Reunification

Bringing family to Singapore is a priority for many expats. Eligibility generally depends on the main pass holder’s salary.

Dependant Pass (DP) This is for legally married spouses and unmarried children (under 21) of EP, EntrePass, PEP, or S Pass holders.

• Requirement: The main pass holder must earn a fixed monthly salary of at least S$6,000.
• Working on DP: DP holders can work if they secure their own work pass (EP, S Pass, or Work Permit). If the main pass holder has an EntrePass or ONE Pass, slightly different rules may apply regarding Letters of Consent.

Long Term Visit Pass (LTVP) The LTVP covers family members who do not qualify for the DP, such as common-law spouses, stepchildren, or parents.

• Requirements: To bring parents, the main pass holder typically needs to earn at least S$12,000 per month. For common-law spouses or stepchildren, the S$6,000 threshold applies.

6. Short-Term & Training Passes

• Training Employment Pass (TEP): For foreign students or trainees undergoing practical training for up to 3 months. Candidates usually need to earn at least S$3,000/month unless they are from qualifying universities.
• Miscellaneous Work Pass: For short-term assignments (under 60 days) involving foreign speakers, religious workers, or journalists.

Comparative Analysis: Which Pass Fits Your Strategy?

Navigating the nuances of salary thresholds, validity periods, and flexibility is critical. The table below provides a side-by-side comparison to help you identify the most suitable option for your specific profile.

1. Work & Business Passes

> Note: Salary thresholds are higher for the Financial Services sector and increase progressively with age.

2. Family Reunification Passes

Understanding the distinction between the Dependant Pass (DP) and the Long Term Visit Pass (LTVP) is vital for ensuring your entire family can relocate legally.

Conclusion: A Strategic Gateway from Indonesia to Singapore

For many enterprises established in Indonesia, expanding operations into Singapore is the definitive step toward global visibility. However, transitioning between these two markets requires more than just capital; it demands precise navigational skills through Singapore’s strict regulatory framework.

At Business Hub Asia, we understand that while your business roots may be in Indonesia, your growth aspirations are international. As your trusted Corporate Services Provider in Indonesia, we recognise the critical importance of compliant market entry. This is why we have established a strategic partnership with VIVOS.

While we continue to manage your corporate needs and compliance within Indonesia, we rely on VIVOS to act as your specialised guide for Singapore. This partnership ensures that your move is not just a relocation, but a seamless integration. By leveraging Business Hub Asia’s understanding of your local operations and VIVOS’s deep expertise in Singaporean immigration and corporate law, we bridge the gap between Jakarta and Singapore, ensuring your work passes and business setup are handled with expert precision.