How to Apply for a Singapore Dependant’s Pass?
Below is a step-by-step guide to how one can apply for a Singapore Dependant’s Pass (DP).
Eligibility Check – Step 1
Ensure that you meet the eligibility criteria for the Dependant’s Pass. Typically, this involves being the spouse or unmarried child of an eligible Employment Pass (EP) or S Pass holder, a Singapore Citizen (SC), or a Permanent Resident (PR). Verify the specific requirements on the Ministry of Manpower (MOM) website.
Submission by the Sponsor – Step 2
The sponsor, who is usually the EP or S Pass holder or the SC/PR, must initiate the application on behalf of the dependant. Furthermore, the sponsor will need to log in to the respective pass application system (EP Online or PR Online) using their SingPass.
Complete the Application Form – Step 3
Fill out the application form with accurate and up-to-date information. You will need to provide details such as personal particulars, travel documents, employment details, and family relationships.
Submit Required Documents – Step 4
Prepare the necessary supporting documents, which may include:
- A copy of the dependant’s passport biodata page.
- Marriage certificate (for spouse) or birth certificate (for child).
- Sponsor’s employment-related documents (e.g., Employment Pass or S Pass, or proof of Singaporean citizenship or PR status).
- Additional documents may be required based on individual circumstances (e.g., common-law relationship proof, disabled child certification).
Submit the Application – Step 5
Once the application form and supporting documents are ready, submit them electronically through the EP Online or PR Online system. Pay the necessary application fees, which can also be done online.
Application Processing – Step 6
The MOM will review the application and may request additional information if needed. The processing time can vary, but it typically takes a few weeks. You can check the application status online.
In-Principle Approval (IPA) – Step 7
If the application is approved, the sponsor will receive an In-Principle Approval letter. This letter is valid for six months and will specify the collection instructions for the Dependant’s Pass.
Collection of the Dependant’s Pass – Step 8
The sponsor or an authorized representative can collect the Dependant Pass in person from the MOM office in Singapore. The dependant will need to be present during the collection and will be required to submit biometric data (e.g., fingerprints and photo).
Dependant’s Pass Application Timeline
Once the Employment Pass/S Pass is approved and an In-Principal Approval (IPA) letter is issued by MOM, you can apply for a Dependant’s Pass.
The standard timeline for MOM to assess the initial application submitted will be 1 to 3 weeks.
Renewing Your Singapore Dependant’s Pass
If you are holding a Singapore Dependant Pass and it expires soon, you may need to renew it to continue staying in Singapore legally. Hence, below are the general steps to renew your Singapore Dependant Pass.
Eligibility Check – Step 1
Ensure that you meet the eligibility criteria for renewing the Dependant Pass. Typically, this involves being the spouse or unmarried child of an eligible Employment Pass (EP) or S Pass holder, a Singapore Citizen (SC), or a Permanent Resident (PR). Verify the specific requirements on the Ministry of Manpower (MOM) website.
Application Submission – Step 2
The renewal application can be submitted through the same EP Online or PR Online system that was used to apply for the original Dependant Pass. The sponsor, who is usually the EP or S Pass holder or the SC/PR, must initiate the renewal application on behalf of the dependant.
Complete the Renewal Form
Fill out the renewal application form with accurate and up-to-date information. You will need to provide details such as personal particulars, travel documents, employment details, and family relationships.
Required Documents
Prepare the necessary supporting documents, which may include:
- A copy of the dependant’s passport biodata page.
- Marriage certificate (for spouse) or birth certificate (for child).
- Sponsor’s employment-related documents (e.g., Employment Pass or S Pass, or proof of Singaporean citizenship or PR status).
- Additional documents may be required based on individual circumstances (e.g., common-law relationship proof, disabled child certification).
Submit the Renewal Application
Once the renewal application form and supporting documents are ready, submit them electronically through the EP Online or PR Online system. Pay the necessary renewal fees, which can also be done online.
Application Processing
The MOM will review the renewal application and may request additional information if needed. The processing time can vary, but it typically takes a few weeks. You can check the application status online.
In-Principle Approval (IPA)
If the renewal application is approved, the sponsor will receive an In-Principle Approval letter. This letter is valid for six months and will specify the collection instructions for the renewed Dependant Pass.
Collection of the Renewed Dependant Pass
The sponsor or an authorized representative can collect the renewed Dependant Pass in person from the MOM office in Singapore. The dependant will need to be present during the collection and will be required to submit biometric data (e.g., fingerprints and photos).
Cancelling Your Singapore Dependant’s Pass
You may wish to cancel your Dependant Pass when you want to relocate to other countries or go back to your original country. The termination process is straightforward and it should be done completely before you exit from Singapore. On this note, we have prepared the following steps as a guideline for you to follow below.
Notify the Sponsor – Step 1
Promptly inform the sponsor, typically the Employment Pass (EP) or S Pass holder, or the Singapore Citizen (SC)/Permanent Resident (PR), about your decision to cancel the Dependant Pass. Provide them with a formal written notification, expressing your intent to cancel and indicating the desired cancellation date. It is essential to maintain clear and professional communication throughout the process.
Gather Required Documentation – Step 2
Review the Ministry of Manpower’s (MOM) guidelines to ensure you have all the necessary documents and information for the cancellation process. These may include your passport copy, Dependant Pass card, and any other supporting documents as specified by the MOM.
Contact the Ministry of Manpower (MOM) – Step 3
Initiate contact with the MOM by either calling their designated helpline or sending an official email. Clearly state your intention to cancel the Dependant’s Pass, provide your details, and request guidance on the subsequent steps to follow.
Submit Required Documents – Step 4
Prepare and submit the required documentation as outlined by the MOM. This may involve completing specific forms provided by the MOM, furnishing a copy of your passport identification page, returning the Dependant’s Pass card, and supplying any other supporting documents deemed necessary. Ensure that all submitted documents are accurate, complete, and adhere to the MOM’s guidelines.
Monitor the Cancellation Process – Step 5
Maintain regular communication with the MOM and inquire about the status of your cancellation request. Promptly respond to any additional requests for information or clarification that may arise during the process. Moreover, adhering to deadlines and providing timely responses will facilitate a smooth cancellation process.
Confirm the Cancellation – Step 6
Upon receiving confirmation from the MOM regarding the successful cancellation of your Dependant’s Pass, make note of the cancellation date provided. Ensure that you cease all activities related to your Dependant Pass and make appropriate arrangements to depart Singapore or transition to an alternative immigration status, if necessary.
Appealing Your Singapore Dependant Pass
In case your application for a Singapore Dependant’s Pass has been rejected by the Ministry of Manpower (MOM), you have the option to submit an appeal. Here’s a suggested approach to follow.
Thoroughly Examine the Rejection Letter – Step 1
Carefully review the contents of the rejection letter issued by the MOM. Pay close attention to the specific reasons provided for the denial. This will enable you to gain a clear understanding of the grounds on which your application was turned down, allowing you to structure your appeal effectively.
Assess your Eligibility for an Appeal – Step 2
Verify whether you meet the criteria for filing an appeal. Typically, MOM entertains appeals when there are compelling circumstances or additional information that was not previously considered. Evaluate whether your case fits these conditions before proceeding with the appeal process.
Address the Reasons for Rejection – Step 3
Develop a strong case by addressing the concerns raised in the rejection letter. Take the opportunity to provide any relevant information or documentation that can help refute or clarify the points mentioned by MOM. Ensure that your appeal demonstrates how you meet the eligibility requirements and effectively addresses any previous shortcomings identified in the initial application.
Construct a Well-Structured Appeal Letter – Step 4
Prepare a formal and concise appeal letter addressing the MOM. Start with a professional salutation and state the purpose of the letter clearly. Briefly summarize the reasons for the rejection, emphasizing your intention to provide additional information to support your case. Present your arguments logically, with supporting evidence, and maintain a respectful and courteous tone throughout.
Include Supporting Documents – Step 5
Attach any relevant supporting documents that strengthen your case. This could include updated employment details, additional financial documentation, educational certificates, testimonials, or any other information that enhances your appeal. Ensure that all documents are properly organized and clearly labeled for easy reference.
Follow Up – Step 6
After submitting your appeal, it is advisable to follow up with MOM to confirm receipt of your appeal and inquire about the timeline for the review process. This demonstrates your commitment and allows you to stay informed about the progress of your appeal.
Remember to tailor your appeal to your specific circumstances, ensuring clarity, accuracy, and professionalism in your written communication. While appealing a decision can be a challenging process, presenting a well-structured case and providing compelling evidence may increase your chances of a favorable outcome.
FAQs
If you’re currently holding an LOC to operate your business, then yes, you definitely can!
MOM will be most likely to request additional documents to support your employment pass application. By engaging with Paul Hype Page team, we will ensure that the documents requested by MOM are well prepared according to the guideline and ensure it covers the potential red flags to smoothen the EP process.
Yes you can! If you are already a company shareholder.
As a DP holder, you can own a Private Limited Company (Pte Ltd) in Singapore. A Pte Ltd enjoys more favorable tax rates, legal protection and easier access to capital. The downside of a Private Limited Company is they come with high compliance and operation costs.
