Understanding the Dependant’s Pass (DP)
Summary: A pass that allows family of Singapore visa and work-pass holders to live, study, and work in Singapore.
A dependant’s pass (DP) is a long-term visa for specific family members of those holding an employment pass (EP), S pass, or EntrePass. The validity of a DP matches that of the primary pass holder’s visa, or it can be tailored to a specific duration, whichever is shorter. Applications and renewals for DP can only be made by the main pass holder’s employer or an authorised employment agency.
Who’s Eligible for a DP?
Eligibility for a DP depends on the type of pass the primary holder has. For EP and S Pass holders, the criteria are:
They can apply if they are legally married or for unmarried children under the age of 21, including legally adopted children
The holder must earn a fixed monthly income of $6,000
The DP application should be backed by the employer of the main pass-holder
For EnterPass holders, the eligibility requirements are slightly different:
They can apply for their legally married spouse or unmarried children less than 21 years old, including legally adopted children
The holder’s total annual business expenditure should be no less than $100,000.
The company must employ at least 3 Local Qualifying Salaries (LQS) employees or 1 local PME employee
Footnote:
LQS Employees, previously referred to as Full-Time Equivalent (FTE) employees, are Singaporean and Permanent Resident employees earning a monthly salary of $1,400 or more and receiving CPF contributions for at least three months.
Local PMEs are professionals, managers, and executives who are Singaporean or Permanent Residents, earning a monthly salary of $3,900 or more, and receiving CPF contributions for at least three months.
What About Working in Singapore with a DP?
DP holders can work in Singapore, provided they secure an EP, S Pass, Work Permit, or EntrePass. However, once they receive one of these work visas, they must cancel their DP. If a DP holder secures a Work Permit, the validity of the Work Permit and the DP will be in sync.