Singapore continues to be one of the world’s most attractive destinations for global talent, entrepreneurs, and investors. Supported by a strong economy, political stability, and pro-business policies, the country offers a wide range of immigration pathways tailored to professionals, business owners, students, and high-net-worth individuals.
While relocating to Singapore can be complex, 2025 introduces greater flexibility and clarity for global mobility, making it easier for professionals, entrepreneurs, and graduates to relocate—provided they meet the relevant eligibility criteria.
Immigration Routes for Professionals
1. Employment Pass (EP): The Employment Pass (EP) is the most commonly used visa for foreign professionals relocating to Singapore. It is intended for senior professionals, managers, and highly skilled specialists who have secured employment with a Singapore-registered company.
As of 2025, candidates must earn at least SGD 5,600 per month and pass the Complementarity Assessment Framework (COMPASS), which assesses salary, qualifications, diversity, and employer profile.
Key requirements include:
- A confirmed job offer from a Singapore employer
- Minimum qualifying salary (higher for more experienced candidates)
- Recognised academic qualifications
- A strong professional track record
Intra-Company Transfer (ICT) – Employment Pass: Some multinational companies may qualify for Intra-Corporate Transfer (ICT) arrangements, which can exempt them from the requirement to advertise vacancies on the government job portal before applying for an Employment Pass.
Singapore adheres closely to the definition of ICT under the World Trade Organisation (WTO) General Agreement on Trade in Services (GATS) and applicable free trade agreements.
Key requirements:
- At least one year of prior employment with the overseas entity
- Transfer into a managerial, executive, or specialist role
- Assignment within the same corporate group
This route is ideal for companies relocating key personnel to Singapore. The EP is employer-sponsored and is commonly used as a pathway toward Permanent Residency (PR).
2. EntrePass: The EntrePass is designed for foreign entrepreneurs who wish to start and operate a business in Singapore that is venture-backed or innovation-driven. This route is suitable for founders involved in technology, research, or scalable business models and allows entrepreneurs to actively manage and grow their Singapore business.
3. Personalised Employment Pass (PEP): The Personalised Employment Pass (PEP) is aimed at high-earning foreign professionals who require greater employment flexibility.
Eligibility criteria include:
- Existing EP holders earning at least SGD 12,000 per month, or
- Overseas professionals earning at least SGD 18,000 per month
Key advantages:
- Not tied to a single employer
- Valid for up to 3 years (non-renewable)
- Self-applied
PEP holders must secure employment within six months of relocating to Singapore.
4. Overseas Networks & Expertise Pass (One Pass): The Overseas Networks & Expertise Pass is designed for top-tier global talent in business, technology, research, sports, and the arts.
Highlights include:
- High minimum salary and achievement thresholds
- No employer sponsorship required
- Ability to bring immediate family members
- Flexibility to work for multiple employers or start a business
This route is intended for individuals with exceptional international recognition and expertise.
Immigration Routes for Skilled and Semi-Skilled Workers
- S Pass: The S Pass is intended for skilled workers and mid-level professionals. Applicants must earn at least SGD 3,300 per month, with higher thresholds for more experienced candidates.
Work Permit for Migrant Workers: This permit is for skilled and semi-skilled migrant workers in sectors such as:
- Construction
- Manufacturing
- Marine shipyard
- Process
- Services
Work Permit for Migrant Domestic Workers: This permit allows migrant domestic workers (MDWs) to work legally in Singapore under employer sponsorship.
Immigration Routes for Trainees and Students
- Training Employment Pass: For foreign professionals undergoing practical training in Singapore. Applicants must earn at least SGD 3,000 per month.
- Training Work Permit: For semi-skilled foreign trainees or students undergoing practical training for up to six months.
- Study-to-Work Pathway
Student Pass: International students may relocate to Singapore by:
- Securing admission to a recognised Singapore educational institution
- Applying for a Student Pass
- Entering the workforce after graduation
Graduates who secure suitable employment may transition from a Student Pass to an Employment Pass, creating a long-term pathway to residence and, eventually, PR.
For investors seeking residency through qualifying capital deployment, see our overview of Singapore residency by investment options.
Source: Ministry of Manpower (MOM), Singapore Passes and Permits
Contact and Disclaimer
Should you have any questions regarding the above information, or require assistance with your immigration or global mobility matters, please don’t hesitate to contact our legal team at Hudson McKenzie. You can reach us by telephone at +44 (0) 20 3318 5794.
For office locations, please visit our Our Offices page.
The information provided in this blog is for general guidance only and does not constitute legal advice.
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