The EntrePass is a work visa designed for foreign entrepreneurs who want to start and operate innovative businesses in Singapore.
EntrePass Singapore provides a pathway for business-minded individuals to establish a company while gaining residency in one of Asia’s leading financial hubs.
This guide covers:
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The EntrePass is a special work visa designed for global entrepreneurs. It is primarily intended for ventures that bring innovation, advanced technology, or high economic value to Singapore’s economy.
Unlike regular work permits, the EntrePass is not just for employment but focuses on fostering entrepreneurial activity, research-based projects, and startups with scalable growth potential.
Applicants must present a viable business plan and demonstrate that their enterprise can contribute significantly to Singapore’s business ecosystem.
Yes, Singapore is considered one of the best places in the world to start and grow a business.
The country offers low corporate tax rates, strong intellectual property protection, and seamless access to global markets, making it highly attractive for entrepreneurs.
Its transparent legal framework and political stability ensure a secure business environment, while its vibrant startup ecosystem is backed by extensive government support, including grants, accelerator programs, and innovation-driven policies.
These factors collectively make Singapore a top destination for entrepreneurs looking to scale internationally.
Businesses that qualify for EntrePass typically fall under innovative, high-value, or strategic sectors that contribute to Singapore’s economic growth.
These include:
To qualify for an EntrePass, applicants must show that their business idea is innovative, scalable, and capable of contributing to Singapore’s economy.
The Immigration & Checkpoints Authority (ICA) and the Ministry of Manpower (MOM) assess applications based on the quality of the business proposal and the entrepreneur’s credentials.
Key factors considered include:
Applicants must submit their business plan and application to the Ministry of Manpower (MOM).
Key steps include:
The application fee for an EntrePass is around SGD 105, with an additional SGD 225 issuance fee upon approval.
Costs may vary depending on renewals and multiple-entry permits.
The processing time for an EntrePass application is around 8 weeks from the date of submission.
This period allows the Ministry of Manpower (MOM) to review the applicant’s business plan, sector eligibility, and overall viability of the proposed business.
Delays can occur if additional documents are requested or if the application requires further assessment by relevant government agencies.
Key benefits include:
While beneficial, key challenges include:
EntrePass holders can transition to Singapore Permanent Residency (PR) if they can show that their business has made a substantial contribution to the country’s economy.
This pathway typically becomes viable after holding the EntrePass for at least two years, though approval depends on performance rather than just duration.
Key considerations include:
The key difference is that the Employment Pass is for foreign professionals with a job offer in Singapore, while the EntrePass is for entrepreneurs intending to start and run a business in the country.
The EntrePass Singapore offers a unique gateway for global entrepreneurs to launch innovative businesses in one of the world’s most dynamic economies.
While the application process is rigorous, successful applicants gain access to a thriving startup ecosystem, tax advantages, and a potential pathway to permanent residency.
Proper preparation, a strong business plan, and alignment with Singapore’s high-value sectors are key to securing approval and building long-term success.
Yes. EntrePass holders can bring their spouse, children, and parents to Singapore under Dependant’s Pass (DP) or Long-Term Visit Pass (LTVP).
However, this is only allowed once the EntrePass business meets certain annual spending and local hiring requirements set by the Ministry of Manpower (MOM).
Yes. While having entrepreneurial or investor experience strengthens the application, it is not strictly mandatory.
What is crucial is a strong business plan that demonstrates innovation, scalability, and potential contribution to Singapore’s economy.
Yes. The EntrePass is intended for entrepreneurs who actively manage their business in Singapore.
Prolonged absence may affect renewal prospects, as MOM assesses both physical presence and business performance during review.
Yes. If an EntrePass holder decides to take up professional employment with a Singapore company instead of running a business, they may apply for an Employment Pass (EP).
Approval depends on meeting EP eligibility criteria, including salary thresholds and employer sponsorship.
Yes. EntrePass businesses may qualify for various tax incentives such as the Startup Tax Exemption (SUTE) Scheme and the Partial Tax Exemption (PTE) Scheme, provided they meet the eligibility criteria. These incentives help reduce corporate tax liability, especially for new ventures.