How Dependant's Pass (DP) Holders Can Work in Singapore

How Dependant's Pass (DP) Holders Can Work in Singapore | Bestar HR Consulting

DP Holders Working in Singapore

How Dependant's Pass (DP) Holders Can Work in Singapore

Dependant's Pass (DP) holders are a valuable part of Singapore's economy and are welcome to contribute to our society. If you're a DP holder looking for employment, you have several options for obtaining a work pass.

Work Pass Options for DP Holders

Prospective employers can apply for one of the following work passes on behalf of a DP holder:

• Employment Pass (EP)

• S Pass

• DP-Work Permit (DP-WP)

Employment Pass (EP) and S Pass for DP Holders

DP holders who secure an EP or S Pass must meet the prevailing qualifying criteria for these passes. Upon receiving an EP or S Pass, the individual's stay in Singapore is no longer tied to the main pass holder. The Dependant's Pass must be cancelled before the new EP or S Pass is issued.

• Check Eligibility: Employers can use the Self-Assessment Tool (SAT) to determine if a candidate qualifies for an EP or S Pass.

  
  

• Benefits: Holders receive the full work and stay privileges associated with an EP or S Pass.

DP-Work Permit (DP-WP) for DP Holders

The DP-Work Permit is a more flexible option for certain roles. Here are the key features of the DP-WP:

• Nationality: Open to DP holders of any nationality.

• Salary: There is no minimum qualifying salary requirement.

• Validity: The DP-WP's validity is directly tied to the validity of the Dependant's Pass.

• Medical & Security: Not subject to the six-monthly medical examination or security bond requirements.

• Medical Insurance: Employers do not need to provide medical insurance if the DP holder already has a plan that meets the Ministry of Manpower (MOM)'s minimum mandatory coverage.

DP-WP Quota and Levy

The DP-WP is subject to relevant Work Permit quotas and levies. The levy rates are aligned with the lowest rates for each business sector.

Sector	Dependency Ratio Ceiling (DRC)	Monthly Levy Rate
Construction	83.3%	General: $300<br>Off-site: $250
Process	83.3%	$200
Marine Shipyard	77.8%	$300
Manufacturing	60%	Tier 1 (up to 25% quota): $250<br>Tier 2 (25% to 50% quota): $350<br>Tier 3 (50% to 60% quota): $550
Services	35%	Tier 1 (up to 10% quota): $300<br>Tier 2 (10% to 25% quota): $400<br>Tier 3 (25% to 35% quota): $600

Note: The Dependency Ratio Ceiling (DRC), or quota, is the maximum percentage of foreign workers a company can employ relative to its total workforce within a specific sector.

Important Information for DP Holders of Overseas Networks & Expertise Pass

Specific rules and considerations may apply to DP holders of the Overseas Networks & Expertise Pass.

The Dependant's Pass (DP) for a spouse of an Overseas Networks & Expertise Pass (ONE Pass) holder has unique and highly favorable rules regarding working in Singapore. While most DP holders need a separate work pass (EP, S Pass, or DP-Work Permit) to work, spouses of ONE Pass holders are granted special privileges.

Key Rules and Considerations for DP Holders of a ONE Pass

• Letter of Consent (LOC): The spouse of an ONE Pass holder is eligible to work in Singapore by applying for a Letter of Consent (LOC). This is a significant advantage, as the general LOC scheme for other DP holders was discontinued in May 2021.

  
  

• Work Eligibility: This LOC allows the DP holder to work for a company in Singapore or to start and operate their own business without having to obtain a separate work pass like an Employment Pass or S Pass.

  
  

• Business Ownership: For DP holders who wish to be business owners, the LOC simplifies the process. They can be a sole proprietor, a partner, or a company director with at least a 30% shareholding in an ACRA-registered business.

  
  

• No Minimum Salary or Quota: Unlike other work passes, the LOC for an ONE Pass holder's spouse is not subject to a minimum qualifying salary. Additionally, it is not tied to the Dependency Ratio Ceiling (DRC) or foreign worker quota of the hiring company. This makes it a very attractive option for employers.

  
  

• Validity: The LOC's validity is directly tied to the main ONE Pass holder's pass and will expire at the same time.

  
  

• Application Process: The employer or an appointed employment agent must apply for the LOC on behalf of the DP holder through the Ministry of Manpower (MOM) portal. The DP holder cannot apply for the LOC on their own.

In summary, the spouse of a ONE Pass holder enjoys a streamlined and flexible pathway to employment or entrepreneurship in Singapore, a privilege that sets them apart from the dependants of most other work pass holders.

For more detailed information, please refer to the official resources on working in Singapore.

How Bestar HR Consulting can Help

How Dependant's Pass (DP) Holders Can Work in Singapore

https://www.bestar-sg.com/

Hiring a professional to assist with your work pass application in Singapore can be a strategic move, especially when navigating the complex and ever-changing immigration landscape. This is particularly relevant for Dependant's Pass (DP) holders seeking to transition to a work pass.

Here's how Bestar can help:

1. Expertise and Up-to-Date Knowledge

• Navigating Regulations: Singapore's Ministry of Manpower (MOM) has strict and evolving criteria for work passes. Bestar stays updated on the latest rules, including the Complementarity Assessment Framework (COMPASS) for Employment Passes, minimum salary requirements, and quotas.

  
  

• Assessment and Strategy: Bestar can assess your individual profile (qualifications, experience, and salary) and advise you on the most suitable work pass—whether it's an Employment Pass, S Pass, or DP-Work Permit—to increase your chances of a successful application. We can also help you understand if you meet the eligibility criteria for a Letter of Consent (LOC) to run your own business, a specific option for some DP holders.

2. Streamlined Application Process

• Document Preparation: Bestar is experts at gathering and organizing the necessary documentation. They can ensure all forms are completed accurately and that you have all the required supporting documents, such as educational certificates, professional qualifications, and a valid passport. This meticulous approach minimizes the risk of delays or rejections due to incomplete or incorrect submissions.

  
  

• Submission and Communication: The application process can be tedious. Bestar can handle the entire submission process on your behalf, liaising directly with the MOM and responding to any requests for additional information. This saves you significant time and reduces stress.

  
  

3. Handling Complex Cases and Appeals

• Addressing Rejections: If your application is rejected, Bestar can analyze the reasons provided by the MOM and help you prepare a comprehensive appeal. We have experience in crafting strong appeals that address the specific issues raised by the authorities.

  
  

• Unique Circumstances: Some situations, like those involving specific family relationships or business ownership structures, can be particularly complex. Bestar can provide tailored guidance and solutions for these unique cases.

  
  

4. Business and Entrepreneurial Support

• Company Incorporation: For DP holders who want to start their own business, Bestar can provide guidance on the incorporation process and help you meet the specific requirements for a Letter of Consent (LOC), such as having a local director or fulfilling shareholding criteria.

  
  

• Regulatory Compliance: We can also help ensure your business remains compliant with all local regulations, including timely CPF contributions and meeting the Local Qualifying Salary (LQS) for local employees, if applicable.