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How Entrepreneurs Can Bring Their Families to Singapore (2026 Guide)
Singapore has emerged as one of the most attractive destinations for global entrepreneurs. With a strong regulatory framework, investor-friendly policies, and world-class infrastructure, it is consistently ranked among the best places in Asia to start and scale a business.
But for many founders and professionals, relocating isn’t just a business decision — it’s a family one. In Mercer’s 2025 Quality of Living Index, Singapore was rated the most liveable city in Asia for the 14th consecutive year, thanks to its safety, education standards, and quality healthcare. This balance of opportunity and lifestyle makes it ideal for entrepreneurs seeking both professional and personal stability.
For business owners moving under an Employment Pass (EP), EntrePass, or Overseas Networks & Expertise Pass, Singapore’s Dependant’s Pass (DP) offers a way to bring your spouse and children legally — ensuring your family can build a life alongside your business.
This 2026 guide explains how entrepreneurs can bring their families to Singapore under the Dependant’s Pass scheme — including eligibility, documents, and the application process — and what to expect once your family relocates.
Table Of Content
- What is a Depandent’s Pass?
- Who can apply for dependant’s pass in singapore?
- Dependant’s Pass Eligibility Criteria (2026 Update)
- Which family members qualify for the dependant’s pass in singapore?
- Documents required for dependant pass application in Singapore?
- How to apply for a Dependant’s pass in singapore?
- How is life in Singapore with a dependant’s pass?
- Conclusion
What is a Dependant’s Pass?
The Dependant’s Pass (DP) is an immigration pass issued by Singapore’s Ministry of Manpower (MOM) that allows certain family members of eligible professionals and entrepreneurs to reside in Singapore.
Dependant’s pass in Singapore is most commonly issued to the legally married spouse and unmarried children under 21 years of an Employment Pass (EP), S Pass, EntrePass or Overseas Networks & Expertise Pass holder.
Once approved, Dependant’s Pass holders can live, study, and access healthcare and public services in Singapore. In specific cases, they may also apply for a Letter of Consent (LOC) to work or start a business, subject to MOM’s approval.
Who can Apply for Dependants' Pass in Singapore?
Entrepreneurs, Founders and Business Owners who establish or
manage a business in Singapore
may bring their family if they hold one of the following:
| Pass Type | Who It’s For | Eligible to Bring Dependants? |
|---|---|---|
| Employment Pass (EP) | Foreign professionals, business owners, or company directors drawing a salary from a Singapore entity. | Yes — with a minimum monthly salary of SGD 6,000. |
| EntrePass | Startup founders or entrepreneurs running an innovative, venture-backed, or scalable business. | Yes — after meeting business milestones or local employment requirements. |
| Overseas Networks & Expertise Pass (ONE Pass) | Established business leaders or founders earning ≥ SGD 30,000/month. | Yes — can bring dependants and family members. |
| S Pass | Mid-level skilled professionals. | Yes — if salary threshold and criteria are met. |
This makes Singapore one of the few global startup ecosystems where business migration includes clear pathways for family relocation and stability.
Dependants’ Pass Eligibility Criteria (2026 Update)
You may apply for a Dependant’s Pass if you meet all the following requirements:
| Requirement | Description |
|---|---|
| Employment Type | Hold a valid Employment Pass, S Pass, EntrePass, or ONE Pass. |
| Minimum Monthly Salary | Earn a fixed monthly income of at least SGD 6,000 (based on your personal income). |
| Sponsorship | Be sponsored by a Singapore-registered company (typically your own or your employer’s entity). |
Note: For EntrePass holders, eligibility to bring dependants begins only after the business meets certain milestones (e.g., total business spending and local employment targets) as set by MOM.
Which Family Members Qualify for the Dependants Pass in Singapore?
Eligible family members for the Dependant’s Pass include:
| Family Member | Eligibility |
|---|---|
| Legally married spouse | Eligible |
| Unmarried children under 21 years (including legally adopted children) | Eligible |
Family members not qualifying under this category may be eligible for a Long-Term Visit Pass (LTVP) instead — for example, common-law spouses, step-children, or parents.
Documents Required for Dependant Pass Application in Singapore
When applying for a Dependant’s Pass in Singapore, the following documents are typically required:
Core Documents
- Copy of the passport particulars page of each dependant.
- For children sharing a passport with a parent, include the parent’s passport page as well.
Additional Documents by Family Member Type
| Family Member | Additional Documents Required |
|---|---|
| Spouse (legally married) | Copy of marriage certificate |
| Unmarried child under 21 years |
Copy of birth certificate showing both parents’ names Verification of Vaccination Requirements (for foreign-born children aged 12 and below) issued by Singapore’s Health Promotion Board (HPB) |
| Legally adopted child under 21 years |
Copy of adoption order or legal documents Vaccination verification from HPB (if applicable) |
For non-English documents, submit both the original and a certified English translation in a single file. MOM may request additional documents during review.
How to Apply for a Dependant’s Pass in Singapore?
Applications are submitted by your sponsoring company or appointed employment agent through the Ministry of Manpower’s EP Online system.
Step-by-Step Process for Dependant Pass in Singapore
- Prepare the required documents for all family members.
- Submit application via the company’s CorpPass login on MOM’s portal.
- Processing time: Usually 3 weeks from submission (may take longer if verification is needed).
- Receive In-Principle Approval (IPA) letter.
- Upon arrival in Singapore, complete the formalities and collect the Dependant’s Pass cards.
Once approved, your family can live, study, and access healthcare facilities in Singapore during the validity of your main work pass.
How is life in Singapore with a Dependant's Pass?
Singapore provides one of the most conducive environments globally for families of entrepreneurs:
1. Education:
International and local schooling options with a global curriculum.
2. Healthcare:
Modern medical infrastructure and universal English-language services.
3. Safety:
Ranked among the world’s safest cities, with low crime and strong community systems.
4. Connectivity:
An efficient transport network linking residential, business, and recreational hubs.
Dependant’s Pass holders may also apply for a Letter of Consent (LOC) if they wish to work or
start a business in Singapore
, subject to MOM approval.
Note: The Dependant’s Pass remains valid only as long as the main Employment Pass, EntrePass, or ONE Pass is active.
Conclusion
Singapore’s immigration system is designed with families in mind—ensuring that entrepreneurs and professionals can pursue business opportunities without compromising on personal life. The Dependant’s Pass framework reinforces that balance, allowing founders, investors, and executives to relocate with their families seamlessly.
For entrepreneurs expanding to Singapore, understanding this process early helps streamline relocation planning, compliance, and documentation.
VIVOS supports founders and business leaders in structuring their Singapore setup—from corporate registration to immigration strategy—ensuring a compliant, confident start for both your business and your family.
Building a Business and a Life in Singapore
VIVOS helps entrepreneurs expand to Singapore with a structured business setup and compliant family relocation support.
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Frequently
Asked Questions
-
Can EntrePass holders bring their families immediately after approval?
Yes, EntrePass holders can bring their families, but not immediately after approval.
Family eligibility depends on meeting MOM’s business milestones and minimum spending or local hiring requirements. Only after these conditions are fulfilled can an EntrePass holder apply for Dependant’s Passes or Long-Term Visit Passes for their spouse, children, or parents. -
Can dependants of entrepreneurs work in Singapore?
Yes. Dependants of entrepreneurs in Singapore can work, but they must obtain a Letter of Consent (LOC) or a proper work pass approved by the Ministry of Manpower (MOM).
-
For Dependant’s Pass (DP) holders: They can work if the employer applies for a Letter of Consent (LOC) linked to the main pass holder’s EntrePass or EP/S Pass.
-
For business owners: A DP holder may start or join a business if they meet MOM’s criteria, which usually requires being a registered business owner with MOM approval.
-
Employment restrictions: Without an LOC or work pass, DP holders are not allowed to work in Singapore.
-
-
Can business owners bring parents or in-laws?
Yes. Business owners in Singapore can bring parents or in-laws, but only if they meet MOM’s higher salary and eligibility requirements for the Long-Term Visit Pass (LTVP).
To qualify:
-
The main pass holder (EP, S Pass, or EntrePass) must earn at least S$12,000 per month.
-
Only parents and parents-in-law are eligible under this category.
-
Applications are submitted under the MOM-issued LTVP scheme for extended family members.
Without meeting the salary threshold, parents and in-laws are not eligible to stay in Singapore under the main pass holder.
-
-
What happens if the main EntrePass or EP is cancelled?
If the main EntrePass or Employment Pass (EP) is cancelled, all dependant passes linked to it (Dependant’s Pass, LTVP, or LOC) will also be cancelled.
Dependants must leave Singapore unless they secure their own valid pass (such as an EP, S Pass, Work Permit, Student Pass, or their own LOC/PLOC) before the cancellation takes effect.MOM usually grants a short grace period for dependants to make arrangements, but staying without a valid pass is not allowed.
-
Can Dependant Pass holders work in Singapore?
The main work pass holder (Employment Pass or S Pass holder) must earn a minimum fixed monthly salary of S$6,000 to sponsor a Dependant’s Pass for their spouse and children.
Additional requirements for EntrePass holders:
- Meet minimum annual business spending of S$100,000
- Employ at least 3 full-time local employees and 1 local professional, manager, or executive (PME)
Note: Personalized Employment Pass (PEP) holders are automatically eligible to apply for Dependant’s Pass as they earn above the minimum threshold.
-
Can Dependant’s Pass holders study in Singapore?
Yes. Dependant’s Pass holders are allowed to study in Singapore, and they do not need a separate Student Pass as long as their Dependant’s Pass remains valid.
They can enrol in local schools, international schools, preschools, or private institutions. Schools may still require placement tests or admission steps, but no additional immigration pass is needed unless the Dependant’s Pass expires or is cancelled. -
What is the salary requirement for a Dependant's Pass in Singapore?
Answer: Yes, but DP holders must apply for a proper work pass. Since 1 May 2021, they can no longer work under a Letter of Consent (LOC) unless they are business owners.
Work options for DP holders:
- Employment Pass (EP): For professionals and managers; must meet salary and COMPASS criteria.
- S Pass: For mid-skilled workers; subject to quota and levy.
- Work Permit: For specific sectors; no minimum salary requirement.
- LOC (Business Owners Only): Must hold at least 30% shareholding and hire one local employee with CPF for 3 months.
Note: Your DP must have at least 3 months’ validity remaining before applying.
- Employment Pass (EP): For professionals and managers; must meet salary and COMPASS criteria.
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