Singapore

Overseas Networks & Expertise Pass (ONE Pass)

The Overseas Networks & Expertise Pass (ONE Pass) is Singapore's premium personalised work pass designed to attract top-tier global talent. Unlike standard work passes, the ONE Pass is tied to the individual rather than to an employer, allowing holders to work for multiple companies concurrently, start their own businesses, and switch jobs without applying for a new pass. With a 5-year validity period and full renewal options, it is the longest-duration work pass available in Singapore. While not specifically a digital nomad visa, its employer-independent nature makes it the most flexible option for high-earning professionals who wish to reside in Singapore while engaging in multiple professional activities, including remote work for overseas entities.

There are two qualification routes:

• Salary route: Fixed monthly salary of at least SGD 30,000 for 12 consecutive months, earned from an established company with a market capitalisation of at least USD 500 million or annual revenue of at least USD 200 million
• Outstanding achievements route: Exceptional contributions in arts and culture, sports, science and technology, or academia and research, assessed by the Ministry of Manpower in consultation with partner agencies

• Valid passport
• Monthly payslips for 12 consecutive months (salary route)
• Employment verification from a background screening company (for overseas employment)
• Employer financial information showing market capitalisation or annual revenue
• Signed employment contract or letter of offer (for prospective Singapore employment)
• CV highlighting key achievements (outstanding achievements route)
• Recommendation letter from local host institution (academia/research track)

The ONE Pass is valid for up to 5 years on initial issuance and renewable for additional 5-year terms. For renewal, holders must meet one of two criteria: an average fixed monthly salary of at least SGD 30,000 over the past 5 years in Singapore, or having founded and operating a Singapore company that employs at least 5 local employees each earning at least the prevailing Employment Pass minimum qualifying salary (SGD 5,600 as of January 2025).

Legally married spouses and unmarried children under 21 are eligible for a Dependant's Pass. Common-law spouses, unmarried handicapped children above 21, unmarried stepchildren under 21, and parents may apply for a Long-Term Visit Pass. The application fee for each dependant pass is SGD 105, with an issuance fee of SGD 225. A notable benefit is that spouses can apply for a Letter of Consent (LOC) to work in Singapore under the Dependant's Pass scheme, which is simpler than obtaining a separate work pass.

ONE Pass holders are generally treated as tax residents if they hold a valid work pass for at least 1 year or stay in Singapore for 183 days or more in a calendar year. Tax residents pay progressive income tax from 0% to 24%. Income earned from services rendered in Singapore is taxable regardless of the employer's location. Foreign-sourced income received in Singapore is generally exempt for individuals.

1. Prepare all required documents and complete the online application via MOM's EP eService portal
2. Pay the non-refundable application fee of SGD 105
3. Processing takes approximately 4 weeks (may be longer for the outstanding achievements route)
4. Upon approval, receive an In-Principle Approval (IPA) letter valid for 6 months
5. Enter Singapore and complete pass issuance formalities
6. Pay the issuance fee of SGD 225 (plus SGD 30 for Multiple Journey Visa if applicable)
7. Register fingerprints and photo at the Employment Pass Services Centre within 2 weeks of issuance
8. Physical card is delivered within 5 working days after registration

Holders may concurrently start, operate, and work for multiple companies in Singapore without needing to notify or obtain approval for each role. There is no restriction to a single employer, and holders can change jobs freely during the pass validity period. However, applicants under the salary route must demonstrate income from an established company, which effectively excludes freelancers and employees of smaller companies unless they qualify through the outstanding achievements route.

Links

• https://www.mom.gov.sg/passes-and-permits/overseas-networks-expertise-pass
• https://www.mom.gov.sg/passes-and-permits/overseas-networks-expertise-pass/key-facts
• https://www.mom.gov.sg/passes-and-permits/overseas-networks-expertise-pass/eligibility
• https://www.mom.gov.sg/passes-and-permits/overseas-networks-expertise-pass/apply-for-a-pass

Other Digital Nomad Visas in Asia