Singapore has introduced various work visas to attract top talent from around the world. Two of the most popular options are the ONE Pass and the Employment Pass (EP). While both offer opportunities to work and live in Singapore, they cater to different types of professionals and provide varying levels of flexibility. To help you figure out which visa is best for your career goals, let’s break down the key features of each.
ONE Pass: A Personalized Work Visa for Top Talent
The ONE Pass is designed to attract exceptional individuals with outstanding achievements in fields such as business, arts and culture, sports, science and technology, or academia and research. It offers unparalleled flexibility, allowing holders to work for multiple employers or even start their own businesses.
Key features of the ONE Pass:
High-earning potential: Applicants must meet a minimum fixed monthly salary of S$30,000 or demonstrate exceptional achievements in their field.
Entrepreneurial freedom: Holders can establish and operate multiple companies in Singapore, giving them greater control over their careers.
Family privileges: Eligible family members can obtain Dependant’s Passes or Long-Term Visit Passes to join them in Singapore.
Simplified application process: The ONE Pass application process is streamlined, eliminating the need for a COMPASS assessment.
Employment Pass: A Traditional Work Visa for Skilled Professionals
The Employment Pass is a more traditional work visa suitable for skilled professionals seeking employment with a Singapore-based company. It requires a fixed monthly salary above a certain threshold and is tied to a specific employer.
Key features of the Employment Pass:
Salary requirement: Applicants must meet a minimum fixed monthly salary of S$4,500.
Employer sponsorship: The pass is issued based on the sponsorship of a Singapore-based company.
Limited flexibility: Holders are generally restricted to working for their sponsoring employer.
When to Choose the ONE Pass
If you are a high-earning professional with a proven track record of success or an exceptional individual in your field, the ONE Pass offers several advantages:
Greater flexibility: You can work for multiple employers or start your own businesses.
Entrepreneurial opportunities: The ONE Pass provides a platform to pursue your entrepreneurial aspirations.
Family-friendly policies: Your eligible family members can easily join you in Singapore.
When to Choose the Employment Pass
If you are a skilled professional seeking employment with a Singapore-based company and meet the salary requirements, the Employment Pass may be a suitable option:
Clear path to employment: The EP is directly linked to a specific job offer.
Simpler application process: The application process for the EP is generally less complex.
Conclusion
The choice between the ONE Pass and the Employment Pass depends on your individual circumstances and career goals. If you are a high-achieving individual seeking flexibility and entrepreneurial opportunities, the ONE Pass is an excellent choice. If you are a skilled professional with a job offer in Singapore, the Employment Pass may be more suitable.ore suitable.