Singapore
Opportunities
Entrepreneur Pass (EntrePass)
What is an EntrePass?
The EntrePass is a visa for entrepreneurs who are ready to incorporate a new private limited company in Singapore. The EntrePass framework was further refined to attract technopreneurs as well as R&D-intensive enterprises including those in the cleantech and biotech sectors so that they can add value as well as inject vibrancy and innovation in Singapore.
Businesses that are involved in the development or application of innovative technology, or contribute to the flourishing of innovative creations, stand a better chance of having their EntrePass application approved.
What is required to get an EntrePass?
The EntrePass application will be reviewed by three government bodies – – SPRING Singapore, Infocomm Media Development Authority (IMDA) and the National Research Foundation (NRF). The criteria are as follows:
Applicants must demonstrate at least one of the following:
| CRITERIA | DESCRIPTION |
|---|---|
| Be funded by a recognised third-party venture capitalist or business angel |
|
| Hold a nationally-recognised proprietary or licensed Intellectual Property (IP) |
|
| Has research collaboration with recognised research institutions such as A*STAR or an institute of higher learning |
|
| Is an incubatee at a government-approved incubator or accelerator |
|
| Hold significant business experience/network and promising entrepreneurial track record | You must fulfil any of the following:
|
| Has exceptional technical/domain expertise in an area related to proposed business | You must fulfil all of the following:
|
| Hold good track record of investing in businesses and want to grow new or existing businesses in Singapore | You must fulfill all of the following:
|
They must also fulfill the following:
- Register a Private Limited Company. The company must not be registered for more than 6 months at the point of application. You can register the company after approval of your EntrePass application.
- Have relevant experience and track record in creating and managing a business successfully.
- Submit a 10-page business plan detailing business goals and objectives. Renewal of EntrePass is contingent on the fulfillment of goals and objectives outlined in the business plan.
Business Plan and Renewal Criteria
One of the key requirements for the application of an EntrePass is a 10-page business plan. The plan must demonstrate your professional business experience, the soundness of your business idea and a detailed implementation plan.
MOM has a progressive renewal criteria framework to ensure that the contributions of EntrePass holders are commensurate with the duration of their operations in Singapore. Subsequent renewals of the EntrePass are contingent on meeting these requirements as well as on achieving the goals and objectives in the business plan. It is therefore crucial to have a well-drafted business plan.
Business Plan – Compulsory Information
- Profile of applicant
- Professional experience, such as employment history, role in growing businesses, track record in growing startups
- Awards or recognitions, such as prestigious awards by a national body, credible organisation or recognised media
- Special skills or resources, such as intellectual property, technology, networks, financial
- Academic qualifications
- Role in societies or organisations
- Business idea
- Product and service offered
- Market analysis
- Supporting documents – e.g. licensing agreements, product certifications and endorsements.
- Implementation plan
- Market plan
- Operation plan
- Financial projections
- Profile of management team
EntrePass Renewal Criteria
| No. of years you have held an EntrePass | Total business spending** must be at least | Must employ at least |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | – | – |
| 2* | $100,000 | 3 FTES** OR 1 PME*** |
| 4 | $200,000 | 6 FTEs OR 2 PMEs |
| 6 | $300,000 | 9 FTEs OR 3 PMEs |
| 8 or more | $400,000 | 12 FTEs OR 4 PMEs |
*Hold a minimum of 30{1c078a52e3ccd9385503cbbfc40289c00fb9bede2bc8c0fbfdb65bfb71488a0b} shares in the Company from Year 2
**Total Business Spending (TBS) refers to total local business spending excluding renumeration to EntrePass holder
***Full-time Employees (FTEs) refer to Singaporeans and Permanent Residents who earn a monthly salary of at least $1,100
****PMEs refer to professionals, managers and executives who are Singaporeans or Permanent Residents and earn a monthly salary of at least $3,600
Note: 1 local PME = 3 local FTEs
Relocation Privileges
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EntrePass holders may apply for Dependant’s Pass and/or Long-Term Visit Pass for their family members, if they meet the following criteria:
- EntrePass holder must have held EntrePass for 1 year and family would have to undergo Dependant’s Pass and Long Term Visit Pass assessment before applying for either upon EntrePass renewal
- In addition, EntrePass holders can only bring their family in if they meet the requirements for total annual business spending and local employment:
| To bring your | Your total annual business spending must be at least | You must employ at least |
|---|---|---|
|
$100,000 | 3 local FTEs OR 1 local PME |
| Parents | $200,000 | 6 local FTEs OR 2 local PMEs |
To bring your family in, you need to apply for the respective pass types:
| Family member | Pass type |
|---|---|
|
Dependant’s Pass |
|
Long Term Visit Pass |
Procedure and Timeline
MOM generally takes eight weeks to process an application, since the requirements for an EntrePass application are more stringent compared to those for an Employment Pass. If further clarification is required by MOM, the processing period will be extended.
Documents Required to Apply for an EntrePass
The following documents are required for all EntrePass applications:
- Singapore EntrePass application form 8
- A copy of educational certificates
- One passport-size photograph taken within the past three months
- A copy of the passport personal particulars page
- MOUs or contracts with potential clients for the new business, if any
- Brochures, press releases, or any other business collaterals from previous or existing business ventures
- A well-drafted, 10-page business plan detailing business goals and objectives
Collection of EntrePass
Once the application is approved, the Ministry of Manpower will issue an In-Principle Approval (IPA) letter. Upon the receipt of an IPA, you have six months to relocate to Singapore to collect your EntrePass, and must register your company with Accounting and Corporate Regulatory Authority of Singapore (ACRA) within the timeframe stated in the IPA.
To collect your EntrePass you will be required to present:
- A copy of the IPA letter
- Passport size photo
- Original passport with the disembarkation card
- Medical exam report* (if required as stated in the In-Principle Approval letter)
- Any other documents that are requested for in the IPA
* You may get a medical examination done in your own country through an established clinic/hospital or in Singapore. Most clinics in Singapore can provide medical examination and report within a day.
Entry Visa into Singapore
If you are overseas and require an entry visa to Singapore, your IPA letter will include a single journey entry visa. Upon your arrival in Singapore, we will make an appointment with Ministry of Manpower on your behalf for finger printing. Once the procedures are completed, your pass will be ready for collection in 4 working days.
You may collect the pass at MOM personally or authorize Rikvin to collect it on your behalf.
What happens when your EntrePass application is rejected?
In the event that your EntrePass application is rejected by the MOM, Rikvin will investigate why the status is so.
Based on the reasons provided by MOM, we will submit an appeal that will address the issues outlined by MOM and also include additional documents where applicable.
It will take MOM approximately three weeks or more to review your appeal.
Permanent Residence Eligibility
EntrePass holders are eligible to apply for Permanent Residency. There is a designated waiting period of six months since one of the assessing criteria is to have a minimum of six months pay slips, and preferably an IRAS tax assessment can be provided.
People also ask
- Why is Singapore a good place to start a business?
- How can I get a Entre Pass in Singapore?
Personalised Employment Pass (PEP)
Now that the economic epicenter has shifted towards east the opportunities in this part of the globe is both abundant and attractive. Foreign talent in pursuit of such opportunities in Singapore can take advantage of the Personalised Employment Pass. Although there are several work passes available, Personalized Employment Pass hosts some unique merits that sets it apart from the rest and it is available for a privileged few with exceptional skills, qualifications or professional track record.
Personalised Employment Pass (PEP) is a special type of employment pass that is not linked a specific employer. PEP is specially targeted for highly qualified individuals who wish to work and live in Singapore. It’s not meant for business owners who wish to operate their own business in Singapore. You can also use our free online evaluation tool to give you an idea if you qualify for a Personalised Employment Pass.
This guide provides detailed information about PEP including eligibility requirements, application procedure and documents required.
Note: The eligibility requirements of the PEP have been further refined. Key requirements are as follows:
- To qualify, current EP holders must earn a fixed monthly salary of at least $12,000, and overseas-based foreign professionals must have a last drawn fixed monthly salary of at least $18,000.
- The PEP will be valid for 3 years and non-renewable thereafter.
Singapore Employment Pass (EP)
On this page, you will learn about the Singapore Employment Pass, a work visa for managers, executives, specialists and professionals. This guide details the eligibility requirements and approval criteria, as well as the application process and timeline.
What is a Singapore Employment Pass?
The Singapore Employment Pass (EP) is a type of work visa that is designed for managers, executives, specialists and other skilled professionals who wish to work in Singapore. The Ministry of Manpower (MOM) also allows entrepreneurs to apply for an EP after they have incorporated a company in Singapore. This enables them to relocate to Singapore in order to run company operations. There is no official quota for the EP.
Singapore Employment Pass can be applied if you are:
- An entrepreneur, executive or managing director of a Singapore company and wish to relocate to manage your company operations;
- A locally-incorporated Singapore company and need to hire an employee from overseas;
- You have an employment offer from a Singapore employer. In this case, your employer will make the EP application on your behalf.
What do you need to have before applying for an Employment Pass (EP)?
All Employment Passes application are carefully assessed by MOM and on a case by case basis. MOM takes into consideration a number of factors such as the applicant’s qualifications, work experience, job scope, economic contribution, employer track record and ability to complement Singapore’s local workforce. To be considered for an Employment Pass, you must possess one or more of the following:
- A recognized Diploma/Degree qualification
- Professional qualifications (professional or educational)
- Specialist skills
- Relevant work experience
In some instances, an applicant who does not possess recognized educational qualifications may not necessarily be rejected for an EP, if there are other compensating positive factors in favour of his/her application, namely:
- Good job profile, salary, work experience;
- Good employer track record, high company paid-up capital and tax contribution;
- Possess strategic and in-demand skills in sunrise industries.
Conversely, having recognized educational qualifications does not guarantee a successful EP application.
What is the eligibility for an Employment Pass?
In addition to the above, a candidate must earn at least $4,500 a month (with effect from 1 September 2020) to qualify for an EP. Older applicants will have to command a higher salary that is commensurate with the work experience and quality they are expected to bring.
Also, with effect from 1 December 2020, new EP applicants in the financial sector will need to earn at least $5,000 a month. For EP renewals, the new criteria will take effect from 1 May 2021.
Related topics: Employment Pass for Foreign Professionals
Application Procedure and Timeline
Employment Pass applications must be submitted to the Ministry of Manpower (MOM). Applications may be filed online or manually.
Online applications require the uploading of relevant supporting documents. Approximately 80{1c078a52e3ccd9385503cbbfc40289c00fb9bede2bc8c0fbfdb65bfb71488a0b} of applications via this route take 3 weeks or longer to process.
Manual applications are preferred by applicants whose supporting documents (eg. testimonials from previous employers, writing samples etc.) highlight other merits. The processing time for this route takes at least five weeks from the date of receipt of the application. The duration may lengthen during peak periods or when the case requires further input from various economic agencies.
Who should apply for an EP online?
- Applicants who received their tertiary education and graduated from reputable universities;
- Applicants who have amassed significant experience or are a subject matter experts in their fields;
- Have attained higher-level certification in their qualifications e.g. ACCA, ACIA, CFA, MBA etc;
- Applicants who have had significant working experience;
- Applicants who are eminent in their respective industry or vocation and can contribute to Singapore’s international prominence in that industry, especially if that field has been highlighted in government policy as being key for economic development.
Who should apply for an EP manually?
- Young, inexperienced applicants who have had substantial co-curricular/leadership experience;
- Nationals of emerging economies with unsubstantial university education but with desirable qualities;
- Applicants with little to no formal education but have extensive informal vocational experience in key industries, the evidence of which can be furnished in the form of written testimonials, completed projects, portfolios etc.
Jobs Bank Requirement
The Ministry of Manpower requires companies that wish to hire Employment Pass Holders to first advertise the relevant position in the Singapore Workforce Development Agency’s Jobs Bank. However, certain exceptions apply.
The following are exempted:
- Jobs in firms with less than 10 employees
- Jobs that pay more than $15,000 per month
- Intra-corporate transferees (i.e. candidates holding senior positions/professionals with the advanced level of expertise)
- Short-term positions (less than 1 month)
What are the Documents Required for submission of an Employment Pass ?
We require the following documents for submission of an Employment Pass application:
- An updated resume or CV stating your educational and employment history
- Copies of educational certificates and past employment testimonials
- A copy of the personal particulars page of your passport
* Any documents that are not in English must be translated into English by an official translation service.
What is the submission and timeline for Employment Pass
Unless your case demands so, Rikvin submits all Employment Pass (EP) applications electronically to the Ministry of Manpower (MOM) so that you can learn of your application outcome sooner.
- It takes MOM around 3 weeks or longer to process the application.
- Upon receiving the In-principle Approval (IPA) notification, we will make arrangements for the collection of your EP.
*Note for entrepreneurs
The EP application can only be done once your company has been incorporated. It is not necessary to be physically present in Singapore while the application is being processed.
Approval and Collection
Once the application is approved, the Ministry of Manpower will issue an In-Principle Approval (IPA) letter via email. The IPA letter must be produced upon collection of the EP at the Work Pass Division at Ministry of Manpower. An IPA letter is valid for six months from the date of notification of approval.
To collect your EP you will be required to present:
- A copy of the IPA letter
- A recent passport-sized photograph
- Original passport with the entry embarkation cards
- Medical exam report* (if the In-Principle Approval states that you require one)
- Any other documents that are requested in the approval letter
* You may have a medical examination done in your own country through an established clinic/hospital or in Singapore. Most clinics in Singapore provide medical examination and report within a day.
The validity of an Employment Pass
The validity of an EP varies and are as follows:
- First-time applicants – up to 2 years
- EP renewals – up to 3 years
Entry Visa into Singapore
If you are overseas and require an entry visa to Singapore, your IPA letter will include a single journey entry visa. Upon your arrival in Singapore, we will make an appointment with the Ministry of Manpower on your behalf for fingerprinting. Once the procedures have been completed, your pass will be ready in 4 working days. You may collect the pass at MOM personally or authorize Rikvin to collect it on your behalf.
What happens if your application is rejected?
In the event that your EP application is rejected by the authority, we will investigate why the outcome was so. Based on the reasons provided by MOM, we will then establish a firm appeal in your defense, addressing the issues raised and providing documents per request, if any.
Please note that it may take three weeks or more to process an appeal, depending on the complexity of the case. Our fees include one free appeal in the event that your initial application is unsuccessful.
Change of Employer
EP holders must apply for a new pass whenever they change employers. There is no need to cancel the existing pass prior to application for a new pass. MOM evaluates each application for a new pass based the applicant’s qualifications, work experience, and employer credentials. A new pass will be issued once the old pass is canceled.
When and how to renew an Employment Pass
MOM will mail an EP Renewal Form to your employer’s address two months before your EP expires. You should submit the renewal application at least four weeks prior to the expiration of your EP. Once approved, your employer will receive a letter of notification when the new pass is ready for collection at the Ministry of Manpower.
How do EP holders relocate with family members?
All EP holders can apply for Dependant’s Pass and/or Long-Term Visit Pass for their immediate family members if they meet certain conditions. A separate Dependant’s Pass application should be made for every family member. The application can be submitted together with the EP application or separately.
Dependant’s Pass (DP)
Singapore EP holders earning S$6,000 or more a month can apply for Dependant’s Passes for their:
- Spouse (legally married)
- Unmarried children under 21 years of age, including legally adopted children
As a DP holder, your spouse may legally work in Singapore. However, his/her prospective employer is required to apply for a Letter of Consent (LOC) with MOM before he/she commences work. (Note: Not eligible for S Pass holders)
Long-Term Visit Pass (LTVP)
Those earning S$6,000 – $12,000 a month and above may apply for Long-Term Visit Pass for their:
- Common law spouse
- Unmarried handicapped children above 21 years of age
- Unmarried step-children under 21 years of age
Those earning S$12,000 or more a month and above may apply for Long-Term Visit Pass for their:
- Common law spouse
- Unmarried handicapped children above 21 years of age
- Unmarried step-children under 21 years of age
- Parents
Work Visa Processing Services
Rikvin is a licensed employment agency registered with the Ministry of Manpower (MOM). The license enables us to facilitate in the placement of employees for a local employer and represent employers or employees in the official submission of work pass applications.
When you engage us for work visa services, you need only liaise with one specialist. Your specialist will help review your candidacy, act as a liaison with MOM, apply for your work pass, and process renewals as well as appeals and track your application.
Longer-term options after obtaining the EP
There are two options for longer-term stay in Singapore after obtaining your Employment Pass. They are as follows:
Permanent Residence
Employment pass holders are eligible to apply for Singapore Permanent Residence through the Professional, Technical & Skilled Workers (PTS) scheme. There is no designated waiting period but one of the documents required for PR application is six months of salary record. Hence, it is advisable for EP holders to wait for at least six months prior to application.
Personalised Employment Pass
Eligible EP holders and gold collar professionals may also apply for the Personalised Employment Pass (PEP). The PEP is a special type of Employment Pass issued to top-tier individuals based on their merits. It is independent of any employer; hence its holder can switch employers without affecting the status of the pass. For more details, please refer to our Guide on the Singapore Personalised Employment Pass.
Related topic: Work Permit Application Service Package
FAQ for Singapore Employment Pass (EP)
- What is the minimum salary for employment pass (EP) in Singapore?
- Is it difficult to get employment pass in Singapore?
Don’t leave your Employment Pass application to chance
We are a licensed employment agency registered with the Ministry of Manpower and offer a full spectrum of work pass services.
Work Permit for foreign Worker
Semi-skilled or unskilled foreign workers in in the construction, manufacturing, marine shipyard, process or services sector.
- From an approved source country or region by MOM
- Minimum 8 years of formal education with a recognised certificate
Work Permit for foreign Worker
Learn about the steps to employing a Foreign Domestic Worker (FDW) in Singapore, as well as what the work permit conditions prohibit and allow. Depending on whether you are employing a new domestic worker or an existing one, the steps vary – view the full steps below:
Singapore S Pass
The S Pass is a type of work visa designed for mid-level skilled workers employed by companies operating in Singapore. An application is assessed based on a point system with consideration for each of the following factors: salary, education qualifications, skills, job type and work experience.
The number of S Pass holders a company can employ is capped according to its industry’s Dependency Ratio Ceiling (DRC).
Validity of S-Pass
The S Pass has a validity of up to 2 years and is renewable as long as the pass holder remains employed in the company, subject to the prevailing conditions imposed by the authority at the time of renewal.
What are the Benefits of S-Pass
Applicants whose fixed monthly salary is at least S$6,000 may apply for Dependant’s Pass and/or Long-Term Visit Pass for their immediate family members.
Permanent Residence Eligibility
S Pass holders are eligible to apply for Singapore Permanent Residency. Applicants are advised to wait for at least 3 years before applying for Permanent Residence.
Read more: Singapore Working Visa Guide
Eligibility Requirements
- Have a fixed monthly salary of S$2,500 (effective 1 Oct 2020) or above: Older and more experienced applicants are also expected to qualify under higher salaries, commensurate with their skills and work experience.
- Possess a degree, diploma, or technical/specialist qualifications: Candidates from the People’s Republic of China are expected to authenticate their qualifications from independent verification channels such as the China Higher Education Student Information and Career Center, China Academic Degrees & Graduate Education Information and Dataflow.
- Relevant work experience and skills.
Renewal Criteria
Besides meeting the eligibility criteria, applicants need to take note of the following:
- Holder’s passport must be valid for at least 7 months.
- Employer must have sufficient S Pass quota for your sector.
Note :
Existing S Passes that are due to expire from 1 Jan 2019 to 30 Jun 2019 can be renewed for up to one year, based on the pre-2019 salary requirement. however, S passes expiring from 1 Jul 2019 onwards will only be renewed if they are able to meet the new minimum qualifying $2,400 salary, which is expected to increase with length of experience.
A decision on all applications are subject to the discretion of MOM.
Levy for S Pass Holders
| Tier | Sector Dependency Ratio (DR) | Levy Rate (Current) | Daily Levy Rate (Current) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Basic Tier (Services and Other Sectors) | ≤ 10{1c078a52e3ccd9385503cbbfc40289c00fb9bede2bc8c0fbfdb65bfb71488a0b} | $330 | $10.85 |
| Tier 2 (Services) | 10 to 15{1c078a52e3ccd9385503cbbfc40289c00fb9bede2bc8c0fbfdb65bfb71488a0b} | $650 | $21.37 |
| Tier 2 (Other Sectors) | 10 to 20{1c078a52e3ccd9385503cbbfc40289c00fb9bede2bc8c0fbfdb65bfb71488a0b} | $650 | $21.37 |
People also ask
- Who can apply for S Pass?
- How do I renew my S Pass?
Don’t leave your S Pass application to chance.
We are experts when it comes to Singapore’s immigration laws and regulations. Our reliable guidance and high success rate comes with 20 years of experience. Secure your S Pass with us.
FAQ
Can as S Pass holder apply to be a Singapore permanent resident (PR)?
How do I submit a PR application via the e-PR system?
you can submit a PR application via the e-PR-system through ICA website at www.ica.gov.sg. It is advisable that you read through the “step-by-step Guide”, “Frequently Asked Questions(FAQs)” & “Explanatory Nots and Document List” on e-PR system before submitting your application online.
How many years can a work pass holder stay in Singapore?
Work passes such as EP, S Pass and Work Permit holders in Singapore are usually valid to stay for 1-2 years and can be renewed after.If foreign workers are laid off without any notice period before the last date of employment, they will be issued a 30-day Short Term Visit Pass (STVP), which will allow them to temporarily stay in Singapore.
How to hire Work Permit holders in Singapore?
You need to meet the Work Permit requirements, including medical insurance, security bond, quota and levy. A foreign worker under Work Permit is meant for unskilled or semi-skilled workers in the construction, manufacturing, marine, process, or services sector. The foreign worker must come from one of the MOM’s specified source countries, which vary by sector.
I have a company in Singapore. Can I hire foreign professionals for EP if necessary?
Yes, although there is no quota for Employment Pass, it still has strict restrictions as the Ministry of Manpower (MOM) will review each application based on several factors such as the applicant’s qualifications, salary, academic qualification, years of experience in that industry, the level of skills required and company’s merit.Employers are strongly encouraged to advertise all job vacancies on the Jobs Bank to reach out to as many eligible job applicants as possible.
How to calculate foreign worker quota?
Need help with your Work Pass application?
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Singapore Immigration Services Quote
Leave your immigration concerns to rest and trust our specialists to guide you through the application. Please fill in the form and let us know how we can help you. Should you have any trouble completing this form, please don’t hesitate to contact our immigration and work visa specialists. We look forward to having you as a client. Thank you.