The EntrePass is Singapore version of Employment Pass for foreign entrepreneurs who would like to start businesses and stay in Singapore.
Designed to facilitate the entry and stay of entrepreneurs who are ready to start a new business, the EntrePass, with an initial validity period of up to two years, may be issued upon the submission of a comprehensive business proposal.
Most Entrepreneurs will not have a problem getting an EntrePass, although this is very dependant on the followings:
Preparing a good business plan for your EntrePass is one of the most crucial aspects in getting your EntrePass Visa. A well thought out business plan helps improve your chances of getting a Singapore EntrePass.
Your business venture must demonstrate in a one-year period that it will meet the employment requirement of a minimum number of Singaporean or local workers; and with a Total Business Spending (TBS) of (Conditions below are extracted from MOM website):
Subsequent renewals of the EntrePass are contingent on meeting these requirements and on achieving the goals and objectives in the business plan. It is, therefore, extremely crucial to have a well drafted business plan.
EP pass holders of P1, P2 and Q status are eligible to apply for Permanent Residence through Professional, Technical & Skilled Workers scheme. There is no designated waiting period but since one of the documents required is the salary record of 6 months, hence it is advisable to wait for at least six months prior to application. It is, however, advised to the Q1 pass holders to wait for at least 2 years before applying for permanent residence.
You may get a medical examination done in your own country through an established clinic/hospital or in Singapore. Most clinics in Singapore can provide medical examination and report within a day.
If you are overseas and require an entry visa to Singapore, your IPA letter will include a single journey entry visa. Upon your arrival in Singapore, we will make an appointment with Ministry of Manpower on your behalf for finger printing. Upon completing the procedures, your pass will be ready in 4 working days.
You may collect the pass at Ministry of Manpower personally or authorize us to collect it on your behalf.
The validity period of an EntrePass varies for:
Renewals of the EntrePass are contingent on meeting the requirements stipulated by Ministry of Manpower in which your business venture must demonstrate in a one-year period that it will meet the employment requirement of a minimum number of Singaporean or local workers; and with a Total Business Spending as how in the table below:
| Pass Type | Criteria for Renewal | Number of Years Approved |
|
P1 |
- Company to employ at least eight local employees; AND |
Two years if Net Asset Value is positive |
|
P2 |
- Company to employ at least four local employee; AND |
Two years if Net Asset Value is positive |
|
Q1 |
- Company to employ at least two local employees; AND |
Approved for one year for 1st renewal only; companies must upgrade to P by second renewal |
| Categories | EntrePass | Employment Pass |
|
Targeted People |
It is designed for foreign entrepreneurs who may have an innovative business idea with potential economic prospects; or who may have demonstrated high caliber entrepreneurial traits with records of successful businesses even without the appropriate educational or specialist skills qualification. |
It is meant for entrepreneurs who have tertiary educational diploma/degree, professional qualifications, specialist skills and related work experience. The Employment Pass is ideal for experienced professionals with enterprising ideas and who require a quick entry to kick-start their businesses. |
|
Processing Time |
25 to 45 days from the date of your Entrepass application filing. |
1 day to 8 weeks from the date of your EP filing. |
|
Eligibility and Assessment |
Main criteria:
Submit a 10-page business plan detailing business goals and strategy to accomplish required objectives of total business spending and to meet the quota for employment of Singapore workers. |
Main criteria:
Other factors which also play a very important role are:
Applicant current citizenship |
|
Validity |
1-2 years |
1-2 years |
|
Renewability |
Renewals of the EntrePass are contingent on meeting the two main requirements stipulated by the Ministry of Manpower: your business venture must demonstrate in a one-year period that it will employ certain minimum number of Singaporean or local workers; and reach the total business spending (TBS) for each category of EntrePass.
|
Renewable as long as you continue to be employed by the company. |
|
Permanent Residence (PR) |
Eligible for application of Singapore Permanent Residence. |
Eligible for application of Singapore Permanent Residence. |
We have a team of Auditors and specialist who can provide you an overview on what are some of the types of business visa and also advice on the types of business visa that best suits your needs:


