Singapore is one of Asia's most important financial, trade, and technology hubs. With a stable political environment, excellent public safety, rich educational resources, and a high-quality healthcare system, it successfully attracts professionals and entrepreneurs from around the world. The Employment Pass (EP) is a work visa designed by the Singapore government for foreign professionals, senior executives, and entrepreneurial investors. Among them, the Self-Employment EP allows applicants to obtain long-term residence and work rights in Singapore by establishing a company and employing themselves as its employee.

Advantages of Choosing Singapore Self-Employment EP

1. Eligible to apply for dependent passes for family members: spouse, children, and parents.

2. Abundant and high-quality educational resources.

3. Similar language and culture, making local adaptation easier.

4. Highly competitive economic market with a friendly tax system.

5. Possibility to further apply for permanent residency and citizenship, beneficial for long-term planning.

Application Process

Step 1: Establish a Company

It is recommended that the nature of the company's business aligns with the applicant’s educational and professional background. When establishing a company in Singapore, in addition to confirming the company name and business scope, the most important requirement is to appoint at least one local director who is a Singapore citizen or permanent resident. Once all documents are prepared, the company registration application can be submitted to the Accounting and Corporate Regulatory Authority (ACRA).

Step 2: Open a Corporate Bank Account and Deposit Funds

After completing company registration, the applicant should bring the Certificate of Incorporation, the company's Memorandum and Articles of Association (M&A), and proof of the director's appointment to a local bank to open a corporate account and deposit sufficient funds.

Step 3: Submit the EP Application

As of August 2025, according to the latest official regulations from Singapore's Ministry of Manpower (MOM), EP applicants must pass a two-stage review to qualify:

1. Minimum Salary Review: Based on the applicant's age and referencing the top one-third of salaries for local professionals, managers, executives, and technicians (PMETs) of the same age group at the time of application.

2. Complementarity Assessment Framework (COMPASS): After passing the minimum salary review, the applicant must score enough points under COMPASS to meet the eligibility criteria.

Once the applicant confirms they meet the requirements, they may submit the EP application to MOM, together with their passport, identity documents, academic and professional credentials, and company registration documents.

Step 4: Travel to Singapore for Biometrics Submission

After receiving preliminary approval from MOM, the applicant will obtain an In-Principle Approval (IPA) letter. The applicant must then travel to Singapore within the specified timeframe to register their fingerprints, photograph, and signature in person.

Step 5: Receive the Residency Card

After completing biometric registration and document verification, the Employment Pass Services Centre (EPSC), under MOM, will issue the residency card. The first card is valid for up to two years.

Applying for Dependant's Pass or Long-Term Visit Pass

If the EP holder's monthly salary meets the statutory threshold, they may apply for a Dependant’s Pass (DP) or Long-Term Visit Pass (LTVP) for their unmarried children under 21, spouse, and parents, allowing the whole family to live together in Singapore.

Renewal of Self-Employment EP

The initial EP residency card is valid for up to two years and can be renewed for up to three years per renewal. Applicants may submit their renewal application as early as six months before expiry. Renewal conditions and required documents include:

• Meeting the minimum salary requirement and achieving sufficient COMPASS points.

• Continuing to hold a key position in the same company.

• Updating relevant documents such as passport, contact information, and company operational details.

※Disclaimer: The information provided is for reference only. Eligibility criteria and requirements are subject to change based on local policy updates. Please refer to the latest official announcements at the time of application.

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