Key Takeaways
• Only Employment Pass and S Pass holders earning SGD 6,000+ monthly can sponsor legally married spouses and children under 21.
• Starting May 1, 2021, Dependant’s Pass holders must apply for their own work passes unless meeting specific entrepreneurial criteria.
• Dependant’s Pass application fees are SGD 105, with issuance costing SGD 225; processing takes 3 to 8 weeks.
Comprehensive Guide to Singapore’s Dependant’s Pass: Everything You Need to Know
Singapore’s focus on attracting global professionals has made it one of the most sought-after destinations for expatriates worldwide. Its vibrant economy, exceptional infrastructure, and high standard of living make it an ideal place for skilled workers. To support these individuals, Singapore issues the Dependant’s Pass (DP), allowing family members of eligible work pass holders to reside with them. However, recent updates to regulations have revamped certain aspects, including employment rules for DP holders. Below, you’ll find an in-depth guide covering the Dependant’s Pass eligibility, application process, fees, timeframes, and more.
What Is a Dependant’s Pass?
The Dependant’s Pass is a visa issued by Singapore’s Ministry of Manpower (MOM), dedicated to the dependants of certain work pass holders. This includes Employment Pass (EP) and S Pass holders who meet the necessary income thresholds. The DP serves two main purposes: allowing families to live together in Singapore and ensuring emotional and social support for expatriates in demanding professional roles.
The DP is granted exclusively to legally recognized family members of eligible work pass holders, such as their spouse or children. These dependants can stay in Singapore for as long as the primary work pass holder remains employed under valid conditions. However, certain policy revisions have introduced stricter rules, particularly regarding work eligibility for DP holders, making it essential to clarify the regulations.
Eligibility for the Dependant’s Pass
Who Can Apply as a Sponsor?
Not all expatriates working in Singapore can sponsor a Dependant’s Pass. Only individuals holding specific work passes and earning the designated wages may do so:
1. Employment Pass Holders: They must earn at least SGD 6,000 as their fixed monthly salary. Employment Passes are generally granted to high-level professionals, such as managers and executives.
2. S Pass Holders: They, too, must earn at least SGD 6,000 monthly and typically fall into the mid-skilled worker category.
3. EntrePass Holders and Others: Entrepreneurs holding an EntrePass, or individuals granted a Personalised Employment Pass, may sponsor dependants if certain economic or employment thresholds are met.
Who Qualifies as a Dependant?
The Ministry of Manpower clearly defines who can be considered a dependant:
– Legally Married Spouses: Proof of marriage is required through official documentation, such as a marriage certificate.
– Unmarried Children Under 21: This includes biological and adopted children.
Other family members, such as parents or siblings, do not qualify for a Dependant’s Pass but may explore Long-Term Visit Pass options instead.
Step-by-Step Guide to Applying for a Dependant’s Pass
Understanding the DP application process is critical, as errors or incomplete documents could result in delays or rejection. Below is a detailed step-by-step overview:
1. Submission of Application
Applications for the Dependant’s Pass are submitted by the employer of the main work pass holder, either directly or through an authorized employment agent. It cannot be submitted independently by the dependant or main work pass holder. The official channel for submission is through MOM’s EP Online portal.
2. Required Documents
A successful Dependant’s Pass application relies on the completeness and accuracy of submitted documents. Ensure all of the following are included:
– Completed application form (available from MOM’s webpage).
– A clear scan of the dependant’s passport.
– Marriage certificate (for spouses).
– Birth certificate (for children).
– Adoption documents (if applicable).
– A sponsorship letter from the employer.
– A medical report for dependants aged over 12 years.
It’s important to make sure that all documents are translated into English if originally issued in another language.
3. Associated Fees
When applying for a Dependant’s Pass, you’ll need to pay these fees:
– SGD 105 per application (non-refundable).
– SGD 225 issuance fee per pass, payable once the application is approved.
– Optional SGD 30 for a Multiple Journey Visa if required.
Keep in mind that these costs may vary if additional services, such as document authentication, are necessary.
4. Processing Times
Processing times depend on the type of main work pass held by the sponsor. For Employment Pass and S Pass holders, Dependant’s Pass applications are typically processed within three weeks. For EntrePass or specialized pass holders, processing can take up to eight weeks. To avoid delays, ensure correct and complete submission of all documents.
5. Approval and Issuance
Once MOM approves the application, the sponsorship employer receives an official In-Principle Approval (IPA) letter. This letter serves as the dependant’s entry permit into Singapore. Upon arrival, the final Dependant’s Pass is issued based on a satisfactory medical report (if required).
Recent Changes: Employment Restrictions for DP Holders
In the past, DP holders could work in Singapore using a Letter of Consent (LOC). However, starting May 1, 2021, this is no longer permissible unless the DP holder meets stricter guidelines for work eligibility. Those who wish to work must now independently apply for a work pass in one of the following categories:
– Employment Pass: Requires a high minimum salary and specific qualifications.
– S Pass: Suitable for mid-level occupations, subject to quotas.
– Work Permit: Generally issued for particular industries like construction or domestic services.
For entrepreneurial DP holders, there’s one exception: they can still use a Letter of Consent, but only if they meet these conditions:
1. Possess at least a 30% stake in the business.
2. Hire at least one Singaporean citizen or Permanent Resident earning the Local Qualifying Salary (SGD 1,400).
These changes underline Singapore’s focus on creating a strong, competitive labor market while maintaining fairness for local workers.
Challenges and Practical Solutions
1. Work Pass Quota Limits
Facing restrictions when applying for an S Pass or Work Permit is a common issue due to MOM’s dependency ratio ceilings (a quota that employers must adhere to when hiring foreign workers).
Solution:
DP holders should discuss quota limitations directly with potential employers before initiating a job application. Employers, on their part, must carefully evaluate whether hiring a DP holder aligns with their workforce planning.
2. Dependency on the Primary Work Pass Holder
Any change in the work pass holder’s status, such as job termination or switching employers, directly affects the validity of the dependant’s DP.
Solution:
Families should prepare for contingencies, such as Long-Term Visit Pass applications, should such situations arise. Renewals of the primary work pass must also be initiated well in advance. Consider consulting MOM or immigration professionals in such cases.
Costs and Additional Insights
Budgeting for DP applications is straightforward, with relatively modest fees compared to global immigration standards. Beyond initial costs, families must also consider housing, healthcare, and education expenses, particularly since certain subsidized privileges may not be available to expatriates.
For authoritative information on application parameters, refer to the Singapore Ministry of Manpower website.
Final Words
The Dependant’s Pass plays an essential role in maintaining family stability for expatriates in Singapore. However, policy changes, particularly regarding employment rights, require families to stay informed and adapt to new requirements. Proper preparation—be it document readiness, understanding costs, or clarity on eligibility—can help avoid unnecessary roadblocks.
For more expert advice and step-by-step explanations of immigration rules in Singapore, visit VisaVerge.com, a trusted source for practical insight. Data-backed planning ensures families can enjoy the full benefits of living in this world-class city.
Learn Today
Dependant’s Pass (DP) → Visa issued by Singapore allowing eligible work pass holders’ family members to reside in the country.
Ministry of Manpower (MOM) → Singapore government body responsible for workforce policies, employment regulations, and issuing various work and dependant passes.
Employment Pass (EP) → Work visa in Singapore designed for high-level professionals, managers, and executives earning at least SGD 6,000 monthly.
Letter of Consent (LOC) → Official document permitting certain dependent visa holders in Singapore to work under specific conditions, subject to policy changes.
Dependency Ratio Ceiling → A quota set by Singapore limiting the number of foreign workers an employer can hire based on the local workforce.
This Article in a Nutshell
Navigating Singapore’s Dependant’s Pass is key for expatriates keeping family close. Available to spouses or children of eligible Employment or S Pass holders, the DP ensures unified living. However, updated work rules demand added clarity. Stay proactive—compile precise documents, monitor regulations, and explore options like Long-Term Visit Passes for seamless transitions.
— By VisaVerge.com
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