Singapore has always recognized the importance of talent for the comprehensive development of a nation. To attract top talent from around the world, the Ministry of Manpower has introduced a new talent policy—the Overseas Networks & Expertise Pass, commonly known as the ONE Pass.

I. What is the ONE Pass for Top Talent?

The Overseas Networks and Expertise Pass (ONE Pass) is designed to attract top talent in business, arts and culture, sports, science and technology, academia, and research. Applications for the ONE Pass opened on January 1, 2023.
In a ministerial statement in Parliament, Minister for Manpower and Second Minister for Trade and Industry Dr. Tan See Leng stated, "The Ministry of Manpower will not impose quotas or nationality restrictions for the ONE Pass." Similarly, Singapore does not limit the number of Employment Pass applications but focuses on setting high-quality application criteria.

II.What are the application requirements?

Eligible applicants must meet any one of the following four conditions and provide supporting documentation to apply:

1 Salary Requirement

Applicants must have earned a fixed monthly salary of at least SGD 30,000 in the past year or expect to earn the same salary under their future employer in Singapore. Overseas applicants must demonstrate that they hold a key position in a company with a market capitalization exceeding USD 500 million or annual revenue exceeding USD 200 million.

2 Professional Activities

Holders must report their professional activities to the Ministry of Manpower annually to ensure they are making meaningful contributions.

3 Personal Achievements

Individuals with outstanding achievements in the fields of arts, sports, science, and academia are eligible with no minimum salary requirement.

III. Benefits and Advantages of the ONE Pass

As Singapore's premier work pass, the ONE Pass offers unparalleled advantages and privileges compared to other work passes.

1 Greater Employment Flexibility

(1) Allows for multiple employments: Holders can work for or run multiple companies in Singapore simultaneously or at different times. They can also serve as directors for other enterprises.
(2)Enables easy job changes: Holders can freely switch companies or jobs without the need to reapply for the pass.

2 Five-Year Visa Duration

The ONE Pass is valid for five years, with the possibility of a five-year renewal upon meeting the relevant criteria. In comparison, the Employment Pass (EP) is generally granted for a maximum of two years initially, with renewals up to three years upon meeting the conditions.

3 Fewer Restrictions, More Freedom

The ONE Pass has no quota or nationality restrictions, offering greater freedom than other passes.

4 Convenience for Family Members

(1)Spouses of ONE Pass holders can apply for a Letter of Consent, allowing them to work locally in Singapore.
(2) Additionally, family members (spouses, children, and parents) can apply for long-term passes, enabling three generations to stay together in Singapore.

IV. Renewal Requirements and Documentation

After the initial five-year period, ONE Pass holders must meet at least one of the following conditions to be eligible for renewal:

1 Renewal Requirements

(1)Have earned a fixed monthly salary of at least SGD 30,000 on average over the past five years in Singapore; or
(2) Have started and operated a Singapore-based company that employs at least five local employees, each earning a minimum of SGD 5,000 per month (linked to the EP minimum qualifying salary).

2 Renewal Documentation

Each year, ONE Pass holders must submit the following information to the Ministry of Manpower, which will be considered for renewal:
(1) Detailed information on all professional activities over the past year;
(2) Annual salary earned from all professional activities.

V. Suitable Candidates for the ONE Pass

We categorize eligible applicants into three groups, each with specific application requirements:
1 Overseas Applicants without Employment Confirmation from a Singapore Company
2 Current Holders of Relevant Singapore Work Visas
3 Overseas Applicants with Employment Confirmation from a Singapore Company