Visa Types Explained: What Expats Need to Know
Relocation Tips May 03, 2024 0 views

Visa Types Explained: What Expats Need to Know

🧳 1. Employment Pass (EP)

For: Professionals, managers, and executives
Issued to foreign professionals with a job offer in Singapore, the Employment Pass is the most common work visa. As of 2025, applicants must earn a minimum fixed monthly salary of S$5,000, with higher requirements for older candidates.
Key points:

  • Valid for 1–2 years, renewable

  • Sponsored by employer

  • Eligible for Dependant Pass for family

  • Must meet Complementarity Assessment Framework (COMPASS) criteria

📌 Tip: Use MOM's Self-Assessment Tool (SAT) to estimate eligibility.

🛠 2. S Pass

For: Mid-skilled workers in sectors like manufacturing, construction, and services
The S Pass targets mid-level staff with a minimum salary of S$3,150 per month in 2025. Applicants must also meet academic and skill requirements.
Key points:

  • Quota & levy system applies

  • Renewable for up to 2 years

  • Employers must provide medical insurance

🧕 3. Dependant Pass (DP)

For: Spouses and children of EP or S Pass holders
DPs allow legally married spouses and unmarried children under 21 to live in Singapore. As of 2025, DP holders cannot work automatically—they must apply for a separate work pass (e.g. Letter of Consent or EP).
Key points:

  • Must be sponsored by main pass holder's employer

  • Renewable with main pass

💕 4. Long-Term Visit Pass (LTVP)

For: Common-law spouses, stepchildren, or parents of pass holders
The LTVP allows other dependents to live in Singapore but does not grant work rights by default. Employment is possible with an approved work pass.
Key points:

  • Valid up to 2 years

  • Requires proof of relationship

📖 5. Student Pass

For: Foreigners studying in Singapore
Issued to students enrolled in full-time programs at approved institutions. Processing is typically done via SOLAR+.
Key points:

  • Must have a confirmed place in school

  • Work is restricted and regulated

🏠 6. Permanent Residency (PR)

For: Long-term expats seeking stability
Singapore PR is granted selectively through ICA under different schemes (e.g., Professionals/Technical Personnel, Investors, Spouse of SC/PR).
Key points:

  • Application is competitive and requires long-term stay

  • Benefits include healthcare subsidies, CPF contribution, and school priority for kids

✨ Bonus: ONE Pass (Overseas Networks & Expertise Pass)

For: Top global talent in business, arts, science, and sports
Launched in 2023, the ONE Pass is valid for 5 years and offers flexibility—holders can work for multiple employers or even start a business.
Key points:

  • Must earn at least S$30,000/month or have notable achievements

  • No employer sponsorship needed

⚠️ Final Tips for Expats