Employment Pass
The Employment Pass is for foreign professionals, managers, and executives who have a job offer in Singapore. Applicants must meet a minimum monthly salary requirement and possess acceptable qualifications, such as a degree, diploma, or professional qualifications. The Employment Pass is typically issued for 1-2 years and can be renewed.
S Pass
The S Pass is designed for mid-skilled workers who have a job offer in Singapore but do not qualify for the Employment Pass. The S Pass has its own salary and qualification criteria, and applicants must also meet a minimum monthly salary requirement.
Work Permit
Work Permits are for lower-skilled foreign workers in sectors such as construction, manufacturing, and services. The requirements for obtaining a Work Permit vary by industry and job role.
EntrePass
The EntrePass is available for foreign entrepreneurs who want to start and operate a business in Singapore that is in a qualifying sector, such as technology, media, or life sciences. The business must be registered with the Accounting and Corporate Regulatory Authority (ACRA) before applying for the EntrePass.
Student Pass
A Student Pass is for international students who wish to pursue full-time studies in Singapore. The student must be enrolled in an approved educational institution before applying.
Permanent Resident Status
Permanent Residency is for individuals who wish to live and work in Singapore on a long-term basis. Several types of PR schemes exist, such as the Professionals/Technical Personnel & Skilled Workers Scheme, the Global Investor Program, and the S Pass holder scheme.
Dependant Pass and Long-Term Visit Pass
If you are a holder of an Employment Pass, S Pass, or EntrePass, your spouse and children under 21 years of age may be eligible for a Dependant Pass. A Long-Term Visit Pass can be issued to common-law spouses, stepchildren, and handicapped children of Employment Pass holders.
Secure a Job Offer
Before applying for a work visa, you must have a job offer from a Singaporean company. Your employer will initiate the application process and act as your sponsor.
Submit Application
The employer submits your work visa application to the Ministry of Manpower (MOM). Depending on the type of pass, the required documents may include proof of your qualifications, work experience, salary, and job offer letter.
Wait for Approval
The MOM will review the application and notify your employer of the outcome. This can take anywhere from a few days to several weeks, depending on the visa type.
Issuance of the Visa
Once approved, the employer will receive your visa, and you can enter Singapore.
Employment Pass Holde
If you have been working in Singapore for at least 6 months under an Employment Pass or S Pass, you can apply for PR under the Professionals/Technical Personnel & Skilled Workers Scheme.
Global Investor Program
For entrepreneurs, investors, or business owners, the GIP allows for PR applications based on significant investments in Singapore. Applicants must meet financial criteria and submit a detailed business or investment plan.
Foreign Students
If you are an international student who has completed a full-time undergraduate or postgraduate degree from a recognized Singaporean institution, you may apply for PR after working in Singapore for at least 6 months.
Family Ties
Foreign spouses and children of Singapore Citizens or PR holders may apply for PR through the Family Ties Scheme. The process is generally more streamlined, but applicants must demonstrate their contributions to Singapore.
Duration of Stay
In general, applicants must have been living in Singapore for at least 2-3 years under a work pass before applying for PR. The length of your stay may impact your chances of approval.