Dependant's Pass Guide: Eligibility & Application Process

Relocating to Singapore for work often means considering how to bring family members along. To support families of foreign professionals, Singapore offers the Dependant’s Pass (DP), which allows eligible family members to join Employment Pass or S Pass holders. This guide provides a comprehensive overview of the Dependant’s Pass, covering who qualifies, the application process, and the requirements for securing a DP for family members.

What is the Dependant’s Pass?

The Dependant’s Pass is a visa that enables family members of Employment Pass and S Pass holders to reside in Singapore. It is an essential tool for families, offering the stability and support system that many professionals seek when relocating for work.

The DP is available to legally recognized spouses and children under 21 of eligible Employment Pass or S Pass holders. Once approved, dependants can stay in Singapore for the duration of the Employment Pass or S Pass holder’s visa.

Key Points:

• Issued by: Ministry of Manpower (MOM)
• Eligibility: Spouses and children of qualified Employment Pass or S Pass holders.
• Duration: Typically aligned with the Employment Pass or S Pass validity.

Eligibility Criteria

Eligibility for the Dependant’s Pass primarily depends on the pass type held by the main visa holder and their income. Here’s a breakdown of the key criteria:

1. Main Pass Holder Eligibility:
   • To sponsor a Dependant’s Pass, the primary pass holder (typically an Employment Pass or S Pass holder) must earn a minimum monthly salary of SGD 6,000.
   • Higher salary thresholds may apply based on industry and job role, especially for S Pass holders.
2. Eligible Dependants:
   • Spouses: Legally married spouses of Employment Pass or S Pass holders.
   • Children: Biological, adopted, or stepchildren under 21 years of age.
3. Exceptions:
   • Long-Term Visit Passes (LTVP) are available for other family members, such as elderly parents or unmarried partners, who may not qualify for a Dependant’s Pass.
   • Employment Pass holders earning above certain thresholds may have additional options for family reunification.

Application Process

The application process for a Dependant’s Pass is straightforward, and it can be completed through MOM’s online portal. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help applicants navigate this process:

Step 1: Prepare Required Documents

Collect the necessary documents for each dependant, including:

• A valid passport.
• Marriage certificate for spouses.
• Birth certificates for children.

If any documents are in a language other than English, ensure they are translated by a certified translator. Notarization may be required for certain documents.

Step 2: Submit the Application

Submit the Dependant’s Pass application online via the Ministry of Manpower’s system. The employer or an employment agency can facilitate this process.

• Application Fee: SGD 105 per dependant.
• Processing Time: Typically, applications are processed within 3 weeks, but complex cases may take longer.

Step 3: Monitor Application Status

Once submitted, applicants or employers can track the application status through the MOM portal. If approved, an in-principle approval (IPA) letter will be issued, valid for 6 months.

Step 4: Complete Post-Approval Formalities

After approval, dependants must complete procedures such as fingerprinting and photo registration (if required) before collecting the DP card.

Required Documents for Dependant’s Pass Application

It is essential to prepare and verify all required documents to avoid delays. Here’s a checklist of the documents needed for a DP application:

1. Passport: A copy of the applicant’s passport with at least six months’ validity.
2. Proof of Relationship: Marriage certificates for spouses and birth certificates for children. Adoption certificates are required for adopted children.
3. Employment Pass or S Pass Details: Information about the main pass holder’s employment and salary.
4. Additional Documents: In some cases, additional documents such as vaccination records for children may be required.

Ensure all documents are complete, translated (if necessary), and clear. MOM may request additional documents on a case-by-case basis.

Validity, Renewals, and Expiry

The Dependant’s Pass is usually valid for the same period as the main pass holder’s Employment Pass or S Pass. When it’s time for renewal, dependants must go through a similar renewal process.

Renewal Process:

• Start the renewal application 6 months before the DP expiration.
• Renewal approvals depend on the continued eligibility of the main pass holder. If the Employment Pass or S Pass holder’s pass is renewed, the DP can usually be renewed simultaneously.

Managing Expiry:

• If the main pass holder’s visa expires and isn’t renewed, the DP also expires. Dependants must either leave Singapore or transition to a different type of pass (if eligible).

Restrictions and Limitations

The Dependant’s Pass has certain restrictions, particularly concerning employment rights. Dependant’s Pass holders are generally not permitted to work in Singapore. Recent changes specify that they cannot apply for a Letter of Consent (LOC) unless they hold a Long-Term Visit Pass (LTVP) from the Immigration & Checkpoints Authority (ICA).

For those who wish to work, employers will need to apply for separate work passes, such as the Employment Pass or S Pass, on behalf of the dependant if they are eligible.

Other Limitations:

• Access to some public services or benefits may be limited.
• DP holders do not qualify for public housing subsidies or specific healthcare benefits available to permanent residents.

Other Options for Family Members

For family members who do not qualify for the Dependant’s Pass, there are alternative options:

1. Long-Term Visit Pass (LTVP): Available for common-law spouses, stepchildren, and parents of pass holders earning at least SGD 12,000 monthly.
2. Student Pass: For children who plan to study in Singapore, the Student Pass may be suitable.
3. Visitor Visas: Short-term visitor visas may be suitable for extended family members or those not staying permanently.

Each option has specific requirements and is tailored to different types of family members, offering flexibility based on family needs.

Summary and Final Tips

The Dependant’s Pass is a key benefit for foreign professionals working in Singapore, allowing families to live together while the main pass holder works. With the right preparation and understanding of eligibility requirements, the application process can be smooth and straightforward.

Final Tips:

• Start Early: Begin gathering documents and verifying eligibility as soon as possible.
• Check Document Requirements: Ensure all documentation is translated and notarized if needed.
• Understand Employment Options: If dependants wish to work, explore the Letter of Consent early in the process.

Need assistance with your family’s Dependant's Pass application? Reach out to JWC Consultancy for expert guidance.