How Dependent Pass Holders Can Qualify For a Work Permit in Singapore
Photo by Guo Xin Goh on Unsplash
With new policies introduced in May 2021, the Ministry of Manpower (MOM) has stopped allowing dependent’s pass (DP) holders to work in Singapore under a Letters of Consent (LOC). This change is one of several initiatives, including higher qualifying salaries for work passes and tighter quotas for businesses, in an effort to reduce local unemployment and strengthen the Singaporean core (read more in our latest recap on work passes here).
These changes have made it more challenging to work in Singapore as a foreigner, however there are still options to consider when it comes to work pass applications. DP holders who own small businesses as consultants, creators or freelance specialists but don’t meet the minimum qualifying salary can apply for a business owner’s LOC (read more about the requirements and process here). Another option for DP or MOM LTVP (long term visit pass) holders is to consider applying for a work permit (WP) to work in Singapore. Our work pass processing team recommends this option for non-business owners who are keen to work for an employer, as they might have under the previous LOC/DP arrangement.
The WP for DP/LTVP holders comes with a few caveats, including a levy charge as with all work permits. However, there are no nationality restrictions unlike the conventional work permits, which helps widen the candidate pool. Under the traditional WP arrangement, the services industry can only employ workers who are Malaysian, PRC or from North Asia.
Per MOM, there are a few key points to consider when applying for WP:
DP holders applying for Work Permits are no longer required to submit security bonds or medical examinations every six months.
Female DP holders do not have to adhere to pregnancy restrictions.
DP holders' Work Permit's validity period will coincide with the validity of their Dependent's Pass.
DP holders working under a Letter of Consent who will be applying for a Work Permit must submit applications early because their DP must have a minimum validity of at least four months at the time of applying.
DP holders who receive S Passes or Employment Passes must still cancel their DP once they obtain their new pass.
If you’re interested in pursuing a work permit or have questions on work pass processing, get in touch with our friendly work pass processing team to discuss your options: [email protected].
