ONE Pass Application in Singapore
The Overseas Networks & Expertise (ONE) Pass is Singapore’s premium work visa, designed to attract top-tier global talent across business, arts and culture, sports, and academia and research. With greater flexibility than a standard Employment Pass, the ONE Pass allows holders to work for multiple employers, start businesses, and bring their families to Singapore.
Assembly Works helps qualifying candidates navigate the ONE Pass application — from eligibility assessment to MOM submission.
What Is the ONE Pass?
The ONE Pass is a personalised work pass introduced by MOM in January 2023 to attract and retain exceptional talent in Singapore. Unlike the Employment Pass, the ONE Pass is not tied to a single employer — holders have the flexibility to work concurrently for multiple companies, start and operate businesses, and switch employers without applying for a new pass.
Key features:
- Valid for 5 years (one of the longest validity periods of any Singapore work pass)
- Not tied to a single employer — work for multiple companies or start your own
- Exempt from the COMPASS framework
- Exempt from the Fair Consideration Framework (no MyCareersFuture advertising required)
- Spouse can work on a Letter of Consent (LOC) without employer needing a separate work pass application
- Dependant Pass available for spouse and children
ONE Pass Eligibility Criteria
The ONE Pass is reserved for individuals who meet at least one of the following:
Criteria 1 — Salary: You have earned a fixed monthly salary of at least S$30,000 from a single employer for the 12 consecutive months leading up to your application. Alternatively, you will earn at least S$30,000/month from a prospective employer based in Singapore. Important: the current or prospective employer must be an established company (market capitalisation ≥US$500 million or annual revenue ≥US$200 million).
Criteria 2 — Outstanding Achievements: You have outstanding achievements in sports, arts and culture, or academia and research, and wish to work, start a business, or pursue opportunities in Singapore. No fixed salary threshold — MOM and partner agencies assess applications holistically based on the applicant’s body of work and key achievements.
Who the ONE Pass is for:
- Senior executives and C-suite leaders at established companies earning S$30,000+/month
- Distinguished researchers, professors, and scientists
- Award-winning artists, performers, athletes, and cultural figures
- Other top talent with outstanding track records in eligible fields
ONE Pass vs Employment Pass — Key Differences
| Feature | ONE Pass | Employment Pass (EP) |
|---|---|---|
| Minimum salary | S$30,000/month (Criteria 1) | S$5,600/month |
| Validity | 5 years | Up to 2 years (first issuance) |
| Tied to one employer | No | Yes |
| Can start a business | Yes | No (without separate EntrePass) |
| COMPASS required | No | Yes (unless earning S$22,500+) |
| Fair Consideration Framework | Exempt | Applies |
| Spouse LOC | Simplified process | Standard LOC process |
ONE Pass Application Process
Step 1: Eligibility Assessment — We review your profile against MOM’s criteria and advise on the strongest application approach.
Step 2: Document Preparation — Passport, employment contract or offer letter, CV, evidence of achievements (awards, publications, media, patents, business milestones), testimonials, academic credentials.
Step 3: Submission to MOM — We prepare and submit the application with clearly presented supporting documents.
Step 4: MOM Processing — Typically 4 to 8 weeks. MOM may request additional information or an interview.
Step 5: Pass Issuance — IPA letter issued upon approval; candidate completes issuance in Singapore.
ONE Pass Application Timeline
| Stage | Typical Duration |
|---|---|
| Eligibility assessment | 1–3 working days |
| Document preparation | 1–2 weeks |
| MOM processing | 4–8 weeks |
| IPA validity | 6 months |
| Pass issuance | 1–2 weeks |
ONE Pass Renewal
The ONE Pass is valid for 5 years and is renewable. To qualify for renewal, the holder must meet one of the following: (a) earned a fixed monthly salary of at least S$30,000 on average over the past 5 years in Singapore, OR (b) started and be operating a Singapore-based company that employs at least 5 local employees, each earning at or above the prevailing EP minimum qualifying salary.
Assembly Works assists with ONE Pass renewals, including preparing evidence of continued eligibility and compiling documentation.
Why Choose Assembly Works?
MOM-Registered Employment Agency (EA Licence No. 22C1133) — Authorised to handle ONE Pass applications.
Achievement-Based Application Expertise — We help structure the narrative and evidence for the strongest case.
End-to-End Support — From eligibility assessment to pass issuance.
Trusted by 700+ Companies — Businesses and individuals trust Assembly Works with their immigration and corporate needs.
Frequently Asked Questions About the ONE Pass
Yes. ONE Pass holders can register and operate businesses in Singapore without needing a separate EntrePass. This is one of the key advantages over the Employment Pass.
Yes. The ONE Pass is not tied to a single employer. You can work concurrently for multiple companies, take on advisory or board roles, and run your own business.
MOM considers fixed monthly salary from a single employer. This excludes bonuses, commissions, stock options, and variable pay.
Yes. Your spouse can apply for a Dependant Pass and then a Letter of Consent (LOC) to work. The LOC process for ONE Pass dependants is streamlined compared to standard EP dependants.
No. The PEP is a separate (and older) pass type with different eligibility criteria and a lower salary threshold. The ONE Pass was introduced in 2023 and offers greater flexibility, including the ability to start businesses and work for multiple employers.
The ONE Pass is selective — it is designed for exceptional talent. A strong application requires clear evidence of either high earning capacity or outstanding achievements. Assembly Works can help you assess your chances before applying.
Ready to Apply for a ONE Pass?
Assembly Works helps exceptional talent navigate the ONE Pass application. Contact us for a confidential eligibility assessment.