Visa & Immigration Guide | ThriveInSingapore

Standard Work Passes

Entry to Professional Level

Singapore's tiered work pass system based on salary, qualifications, and job type. Choose the right pass for your career level.

Entry Level

Work Permit

For semi-skilled workers in construction, manufacturing, marine, process, and services sectors.

Min. Salary: No minimum

Processing: 1-3 weeks

Validity: Up to 2 years

Cannot apply for PR

Learn More

Mid-Skilled

S Pass

For mid-level skilled workers with diploma or degree. Subject to quota and levy requirements.

Min. Salary: $3,150/month

Processing: 3 weeks

Validity: Up to 2 years

Subject to 10-18% employer quota

Learn More

Most Common

Employment Pass (EP)

For professionals, managers, and executives. The most prestigious work pass with path to PR.

Min. Salary: $5,000 - $10,500/month*

Processing: 3-8 weeks

Validity: Up to 2 years

*Varies by age, requires COMPASS 40+ points

Learn More

Premium & Specialized Passes

For High Earners, Entrepreneurs & Tech Leaders

Exclusive passes for exceptional talent. Greater flexibility, longer validity, and no employer restrictions.

High Earners

Personalised Employment Pass (PEP)

Not tied to employer. Switch jobs freely.

Min. Salary:$22,500/month

Validity:3 years (non-renewable)

Learn More →

Tech

Tech.Pass

For tech founders & leaders from unicorns.

Min. Salary:$22,500/month

Validity:2 years

Learn More →

Founders

EntrePass

For entrepreneurs with VC funding or IP.

Min. Funding:$100,000 (VC)

Validity:1-2 years

Learn More →

Premium

ONE Pass

Top-tier talent. Multiple employers allowed.

Min. Salary:$30,000/month

Validity:5 years

Learn More →

Insider Tip: COMPASS Framework for EP

Since September 2023, EP applications require 40+ points under COMPASS. Premium passes (ONE, Tech.Pass, PEP) are exempt from COMPASS, making them attractive alternatives for high earners who may struggle with the points system.

Family & Study Passes

For Dependants & Students

Bring your family to Singapore or pursue education. Different passes for spouses, children, parents, and students.

Dependant's Pass (DP)

For legally married spouses and unmarried children under 21 of EP or S Pass holders.

Sponsor earning min. $6,000/month

Can work with Letter of Consent

Learn More →

Long-Term Visit Pass (LTVP)

For common-law spouses, stepchildren, handicapped children over 21, and parents.

Parents require $12,000/month sponsor

LTVP+ allows work eligibility

Learn More →

Student Pass

For full-time students at approved educational institutions in Singapore.

Must have offer from approved school

Part-time work allowed (conditions apply)

Learn More →

Why Upgrade?

Save $200,000+ as a PR

Upgrading from Work Pass to Permanent Resident unlocks massive financial benefits: CPF contributions, HDB access, lower property taxes, and subsidized education.

17%

Employer CPF (free money)

55%

Lower ABSD on property

HDB

Eligible after 3 years

60%

Lower school fees

View Full Savings Breakdown

Quick Comparison

CPF Employer Contribution

EP: 0% PR: 17%

ABSD (1st Property)

FR: 60% PR: 5%

HDB Eligibility

FR: No PR: Yes

Primary School Fee

FR: $825 PR: $268

See detailed analysis →

High-Value Content

Permanent Residency (PR) Guide

Becoming a Singapore PR opens doors to property ownership, CPF benefits, and a path to citizenship. Here's your comprehensive roadmap.

Who Can Apply for PR?

1

Work Pass Holders

EP, S Pass, PEP, EntrePass, Tech.Pass, or ONE Pass holders working in Singapore for at least 6 months

2

Spouse of a Singapore Citizen/PR

Legally married for at least 2 years

3

Students studying in Singapore

At least 2 years of study + passed one national exam

4

Investors under GIP

Global Investor Programme participants

Work Permit holders cannot apply for PR. Consider upgrading to S Pass or EP first.

What to Expect

Processing Time 4-6 months (typical)

Can take up to 12+ months for complex cases

Key Factors for Approval:

Income level and stability
Educational qualifications
Length of stay in Singapore
Family ties to Singapore
Community involvement
Long-term financial planning ⭐

Investment plans, insurance & education savings prove your commitment. Actions speak louder than words.

Exclusive: PR Success Strategies

Before You Apply:

Wait at least 2 years in Singapore (6 months is minimum, but longer is better)
Build CPF-like savings demonstrating financial stability
Join community activities and volunteer organizations

Strong Application Tips:

Include a well-crafted cover letter explaining your commitment to Singapore
Highlight contributions to Singapore's economy and society
If married, apply together as a family unit

Get Our Complete PR Success Guide

High Net Worth

Global Investor Programme (GIP)

For established business owners and investors seeking to relocate to Singapore. Direct pathway to PR with investment commitment.

Option A

Business Investment

$10M

Minimum Investment

Invest in new or existing Singapore business
Must create local employment
5-year business plan required

Option B

GIP Fund

$25M

Minimum Investment

Invest in approved GIP fund
Focus on Singapore companies
Professionally managed portfolio

Option C

Family Office

$50M

AUM Requirement

Set up single family office
Manage family wealth from Singapore
Hire local investment professionals

Interested in the Global Investor Programme?

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