6 Questions on Singapore’s Overseas Networks & Expertise (ONE) Pass Answered

In August 2022, the Ministry of Manpower (MOM) Singapore announced a new work pass aimed to attract top talents to work and live in Singapore. The Overseas Networks & Expertise Pass (ONE Pass) was introduced as part of the country’s strategy to enhance its position as a global hub for talent. 

The government has been open to expats and high-achievers all over the world, realising their importance to keep Singapore relevant amidst a turbulent post-globalised world.  Starting from January 2023, the use of Overseas Networks & Expertise Pass (ONE Pass) will be enforced. 

So what exactly is the new pass about? Which segment of the workforce is it relevant to? What are its benefits and how is it different from other work passes? In today’s article, we will look at some questions about the ONE Pass and shed light on what you should know about this enticing new pass. 

1. Who is eligible to apply for the Overseas Networks & Expertise Pass?

The ONE Pass is dedicated for top talents in business, arts and culture, sports, science and technology, and academia and research. 

The candidate for this work pass must have a fixed monthly salary of no less than SG$30,000 within the previous 1 year or will be earning no less than SG$30,000 under their future employment based in Singapore.  

However, even if the candidate might not meet the salary criterion, they can still be qualified to apply if they show outstanding achievement in the stated fields. 

Reach out to Ledgen to learn more about the outstanding achievement criterion under the ONE Pass. 

2. Can overseas candidates with no existing Singapore work pass apply?  

Yes, overseas candidates who have no existing Singapore employment pass can apply. They will need to show that they have been working for an established company overseas for at least 1 year or will be working for an established company in Singapore.

What qualifies as an established company? Under the ONE Pass, an established company must have a market capitalisation of at least US$500 million or annual revenue of at least US$200 million.  

3. What is the duration of the pass and can it be renewed?

The Overseas Networks & Expertise Pass is valid for five years for first-time candidates. The pass can be renewed to stay valid for another five years provided that the pass holder continues to meet either of the renewal criteria:

• Earn a fixed monthly salary of no less than SG$30,000 over the past five years in Singapore. 
• Have started and currently operate a Singapore-based company that employs at least 5 locals, with each of them earning no less than SG$5,000.   

 

4. Does the pass allow dependents & family members into Singapore?

Once the ONE Pass is granted, the pass holder is allowed to bring along certain family members to come and join them in Singapore. These dependents would need to apply for their respective passes. For instance, legally married spouses and unmarried children under 21 years old (including legally adopted children) can apply for the Dependent’s Pass. 

The spouse of the work pass holder is also allowed to work in Singapore on a Letter of Consent. 

5. What are the benefits of the Overseas Networks & Expertise Pass? 

One of the main advantages of the ONE Pass scheme is that it gives the holder greater flexibility compared to other employment passes such as EP, PEP, EntrePass, and Tech.Pass. 

The bearer of the work pass can concurrently start, operate, and work for multiple companies all at the same time. Pass holders would not need to reapply for a new pass if they change jobs. And as mentioned previously, spouses of the pass holder can work provided that they have a Letter of Consent. 

The ONE Pass has a longer validity duration (five years) than previous work passes; two years for EP (new applicants) and three years for PEP. Renewals are also longer under the ONE Pass (five years), compared to the three years renewal period for EP. 

Lastly, ONE Pass holders are not subjected to the Complementarity Assessment Framework (COMPASS), which is a point-based eligibility assessment system for employers to select foreign professionals. Employers who wish to hire under this work pass are also not subject to the Fair Consideration Framework job advertising requirement.   

6. What must be submitted to MOM Singapore? 

In order to ensure that holders of Overseas Networks & Expertise Passes are utilising the pass meaningfully, they will be requested to submit information on their professional activities over the year to the Ministry of Manpower (MOM). This includes:    

• Information about all recent professional activities over the past year
• The total yearly wage the pass holders have made from all of their professional endeavours

With this information, MOM will continue to monitor and assess the pass holder’s eligibility for renewal. 

Conclusion

Singapore’s accessibility to important regional markets has kept it appealing to talents all over the world. There is an abundance of opportunities for career growth and success, made possible by the numerous multinational firms and headquarters in the city-state. 

Work with a professional corporate service provider to find the best solution for relocating and hiring. At Ledgen, our HR professionals are capable of helping you navigate through visa and work pass applications, as well as providing advice that will solve your HR challenges.  

Read more: How HR & Payroll Outsourcing Helps your Business

Read more: Myths & Misconceptions about HR Outsourcing 

Contact us today to get started on HR outsourcing.  

 

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