Singapore Overseas Networks & Expertise (ONE) Pass Guide

The Singapore government introduced a new work visa called the Overseas Networks & Expertise (ONE) Pass, officially launching on 1 January 2023. The initiative is designed to attract and retain top global talent by offering a longer-term work visa, thereby providing stability for professionals in Singapore.

The ONE Pass forms part of Singapore’s broader strategy to strengthen its foreign talent pool, ensuring businesses can access highly skilled professionals in sectors critical to economic growth. This guide explores the Singapore ONE Pass requirements, eligibility, application process, benefits, challenges, and comparisons with other work visas.

Singapore ONE Pass Requirements & Eligibility

The ONE Pass is a 5-year work visa targeting top professionals in:

• Business
• Arts & Culture
• Sports
• Science & Technology
• Academia & Research

To qualify, applicants must meet one of the following primary criteria:

Alternative Eligibility: Achievements-Based Route

Applicants who do not meet the salary threshold may still qualify if they have outstanding achievements in one of the following domains:

• Sports
• Arts & Culture
• Academia & Research

The Ministry of Manpower (MOM) and other government agencies review applications holistically, taking into account the applicant’s professional accomplishments and contributions to their field.

Steps to Apply for the Singapore ONE Pass

The application process involves several key steps:

Always refer to official Singapore government websites for the latest ONE Pass information and guidelines.

Renewal Criteria for the ONE Pass

The ONE Pass can be renewed for an additional 5 years if specific criteria are met:

1. • Renewal is assessed based on continued accomplishments in your field, similar to a new application.

Benefits of the Singapore ONE Pass

1. Greater Employment Flexibility

The ONE Pass allows applicants to:

• Earn combined salaries by taking on multiple roles, without being tied to a single employer.
• Start their own business in Singapore, offering a clear pathway for entrepreneurial professionals.
• Apply without an existing job offer, provided you can show prior earnings of S$30,000/month overseas.

2. Dependant Pass Holders Can Work via LOC

Dependants accompanying ONE Pass holders may apply for a Letter of Consent (LOC) to work in Singapore. This flexibility helps foreign families maintain financial stability while relocating.

3. Longer Validity Ensures Stability

With a 5-year tenure, the ONE Pass provides the longest work visa duration in Singapore, offering long-term stability for both the professional and their family.

Challenges ONE Pass Holders May Face

Despite its advantages, applicants should consider potential challenges:

1. Stringent Approval Process

MOM evaluates applications thoroughly due to the pass’s flexible structure:

2. Difficulty Securing Jobs Meeting Salary Threshold

While applicants can apply without a job offer, not all Singapore companies can afford a S$30,000 monthly salary.

Solution: Leverage the ONE Pass to start your own company in Singapore. Private limited companies are a preferred option for foreign entrepreneurs, providing both income and economic contribution.

3. Annual Economic Contribution Assessment

MOM may request annual proof of contribution, including

Failing to demonstrate meaningful contributions may result in pass revocation, impacting residency and dependants’ stability.

Operating a Singapore-based company ensures ongoing compliance and strengthens your case for ONE Pass renewal.

Comparing ONE Pass with Other Singapore Work Visas

Key comparisons for foreign professionals:

The ONE Pass is ideal for highly skilled professionals, entrepreneurs, and investors, offering unmatched stability and flexibility in Singapore.

The ONE Pass provides greater long-term stability, flexibility for dependants, and the option to launch a business in Singapore, making it uniquely suitable for top talent.

Starting a Singapore Company with ONE Pass

For many foreign professionals, the ONE Pass provides a unique opportunity to start and operate a business in Singapore. This flexibility makes Singapore an attractive hub for entrepreneurs seeking regional presence and long-term stability.

Following professional advice ensures smooth application and compliance, minimizing risks of delays or rejection.

Different Routes to Apply for ONE Pass

The ONE Pass offers multiple application pathways based on your professional profile and intentions in Singapore:

Each route has distinct eligibility, documentation requirements, and processing timelines. Consulting official Singapore government websites (MOM, EDB, SEDB) is recommended for clarity.

Converting Employment Pass (EP) to ONE Pass

Existing Singapore EP holders can convert to the ONE Pass if they meet:

• Salary requirements (S$30,000/month)
• Outstanding achievements in business, arts & culture, sports, science & technology, or academia & research

Estimated 5% of EP holders, around 8,000 professionals, may qualify.

Considerations Before Conversion

1. Current Employment

Evaluate whether remaining on your EP better suits your career or salary structure.

2. Tax Implications

Singapore personal income tax ranges from 0% to 24%, with top marginal rates rising from 22% to 24% from YA 2024.

3. Business Ownership

ONE Pass allows entrepreneurship; EP holders may need separate passes to start businesses.

Strategic decision-making ensures the most beneficial pass type for long-term residency, tax efficiency, and career goals.

Singapore Foreign Talent Landscape

Singapore has always been one of the top destinations for foreign talents to live, work, or set up a company. However, in recent years, the country has found it difficult to retain highly skilled talents for a couple of reasons.

As Singapore looks to go full force to strengthen its work force, now is the best time to apply for your employment pass or work visas. We have seen high number of approvals for our Singapore Employment Pass applications recently.

Here are the outcomes of our EP applications for the past months: