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Guide to Singapore’s Dependant’s Pass

Picture of JWC Accounts & HR By  JWC Accounts & HR  ·  4 minute read

Navigating Singapore’s immigration policies can be challenging, especially for professionals and their families relocating for work. One important aspect of this process is understanding the Dependant's Pass (DP). This pass allows eligible family members to join professionals working in Singapore, providing them with the legal right to live in the country.

In this blog, we’ll explore what the Dependant’s Pass is, who qualifies, the application process, and the benefits it offers.

What Is a Dependant's Pass?

The Dependant’s Pass (DP) is a special visa issued by Singapore’s Ministry of Manpower (MOM) for family members of Employment Pass, S Pass, or EntrePass holders. It allows spouses and children of work pass holders to live in Singapore for the duration of the main work pass holder’s employment.

This visa is crucial in enabling professionals to bring their families to Singapore without needing to secure separate residency permits for each family member.

Eligibility Criteria for Dependant's Pass

Not all family members are eligible for a Dependant’s Pass. Only specific relationships to the main work pass holder qualify, and there are salary thresholds that the main pass holder must meet to apply for their dependants. Here’s a breakdown of the eligibility requirements:

  1. Main Work Pass Holder:
    • Must hold an Employment Pass, S Pass, EntrePass, or Overseas Networks & Expertise (ONE Pass).
    • Must have a monthly fixed salary of at least SGD 6,000 (except for ONE Pass holders, who are not subject to a specific salary requirement but must meet eligibility criteria based on outstanding achievements or expertise).
  2. Eligible Dependants:
    • Spouses: Legally married spouses are eligible for the Dependant’s Pass.
    • Children: Unmarried children under 21 years old, including legally adopted children, are also eligible.

Other relatives, such as parents, in-laws, or siblings, are not covered under the Dependant’s Pass and would require a Long-Term Visit Pass (LTVP) if they wish to stay in Singapore.

Application Process for Dependant’s Pass

The Dependant’s Pass application is relatively straightforward but requires careful attention to detail. The process can be initiated once the main work pass is approved. Here are the key steps involved:

  1. Submit the Application:
    • Applications can be submitted online through the Ministry of Manpower (MOM) website.
    • The application fee is SGD 105 per applicant.
  2. Provide Necessary Documents:
    • A copy of the dependant's passport.
    • A recent passport-sized photograph.
    • Proof of relationship (e.g., marriage or birth certificate).
    • If applicable, an adoption order for adopted children.
  3. Processing Time:
    • The typical processing time for the Dependant's Pass is 3 weeks, but it may take longer if additional documents or verification are required.
  4. Issuance of Pass:
    • Upon approval, an In-Principle Approval (IPA) letter will be issued. This letter serves as a temporary visa for entering Singapore.
    • After arrival in Singapore, the dependant must undergo a medical examination before the physical Dependant’s Pass card is issued.

What Can Dependant’s Pass Holders Do in Singapore?

Living in Singapore on a Dependant’s Pass provides several advantages for family members of professionals working in the country. Here’s what DP holders are allowed to do:

  1. Stay in Singapore:
    • DP holders can legally reside in Singapore for the entire duration of the primary work pass holder’s employment.
  2. Study in Singapore:
    • Children on a Dependant’s Pass can attend local or international schools in Singapore. However, for local schools, they may need to apply for a Student’s Pass or other permits, depending on the school’s requirements.
  3. Work in Singapore:
    • Spouses on a Dependant’s Pass (DP) may seek employment by applying for a Letter of Consent (LOC). However, as of 1 May 2021, MOM no longer accepts LOC applications. Instead, DP holders must apply for an Employment Pass, S Pass, or Work Permit to work in Singapore. Additionally, DP holders who are also ONE Pass holders can work without needing a separate work pass, as the Overseas Networks & Expertise (ONE Pass) grants them the flexibility to work for multiple employers, including starting their own businesses.

Advantages of a Dependant’s Pass

The Dependant's Pass offers significant benefits for families, particularly in ensuring that the transition to living in Singapore is smooth. Here are some key advantages:

  1. Family Unity:
    • The primary advantage of the Dependant's Pass is that it allows families to stay together while the main work pass holder is employed in Singapore.
  2. No Need for a Separate Residency Visa:
    • Family members do not need to apply for a separate visa to live in Singapore, making the process less bureaucratic and time-consuming.
  3. Ease of Travel:
    • Dependant's Pass holders can enter and exit Singapore freely, providing flexibility for family travel without additional visa requirements.
  4. Ability to Transition to Employment:
    • While spouses cannot apply for a Letter of Consent after May 2021, they can still work in Singapore by applying for an Employment Pass, S Pass, or Work Permit, allowing them to transition to a working role if they choose.

Renewal and Cancellation of the Dependant’s Pass

The Dependant's Pass is tied to the main work pass holder's visa. As such, its renewal and cancellation depend on the status of the main visa. Here's how it works:

  1. Renewal:
    • The Dependant's Pass is renewed along with the main work pass. When the main pass holder renews their Employment Pass, S Pass, or EntrePass, they can apply for the renewal of their dependants' passes simultaneously.
    • Ensure that all documents, including the dependants’ passports, are valid before applying for renewal.
  2. Cancellation:
    • If the main work pass holder’s employment in Singapore ends or their pass is canceled, the Dependant’s Pass will automatically be canceled as well.
    • Once canceled, dependants are typically given a 30-day grace period to leave Singapore unless they apply for a Long-Term Visit Pass or another visa category.

FAQs on Dependant’s Pass

Here are some common questions that expatriates and their families ask about the Dependant’s Pass:

  1. Can a DP holder travel in and out of Singapore?
    • Yes, DP holders can travel in and out of Singapore as long as their pass is valid. They will not need to apply for a separate re-entry permit.
  2. Can children on a DP attend public schools in Singapore?
    • Yes, children on a Dependant’s Pass can attend public schools, but they may need to apply for a Student’s Pass if required by the school.
  3. Can a DP holder apply for Permanent Residency (PR)?
    • While DP holders themselves cannot apply directly for PR, they may be included in the main pass holder’s PR application.
  4. What happens if the main work pass holder loses their job?
    • If the primary work pass holder’s employment is terminated, the Dependant’s Pass will also be canceled, and the family members will need to leave Singapore unless they secure another visa.

The Dependant's Pass is a critical solution for expatriates who wish to bring their families to Singapore while they work. It ensures that spouses and children can live in Singapore, receive an education, and even work under certain conditions. By understanding the eligibility, application process, and benefits, families can make informed decisions and plan their move to Singapore smoothly.

If you need expert guidance on applying for Dependant's Pass or any related immigration services, JWC Consultancy is here to assist you. Contact us today to streamline your family’s relocation process with our comprehensive visa solutions.