Understanding the Letter of Consent (LOC) in Singapore

Letter of Consent (LOC)The Ministry of Manpower (MOM) in Singapore issues a Letter of Consent (LOC), which serves as permission for individuals holding a Long-Term Visit Pass (LTVP or LTVP+) or for business owners with a Dependant’s Pass (DP) to work for a company within the country.

 

Who Can Apply for a LOC If They Hold an LTVP/LTVP+?

To be eligible for a LOC, you must meet one the following conditions:

  • You’re holding an LTVP/LTVP+ and are married to either a Singaporean or a permanent resident.
  • You’re a minor (below 21 years old), unmarried, and a child of an LTVP holder who is a Singaporean or a permanent resident.

Additionally, having a job offer from a Singapore-based company and maintaining an LTVP/LTVP+ that’s valid for at least three months are requisites.

 

Who Can Apply for a LOC If They Hold a DP?

To qualify for a LOC, you must be a business owner that fulfils one of the following criteria:

  • You’re the sole proprietor of a firm registered with ACRA.
  • You’re a partner in a company registered with ACRA.
  • You’re a company director owning at least 30% of the shares in an ACRA-registered company.

Since May 1, 2021, individuals with a DP can’t get a LOC for a company where they don’t own shares. Instead, they’ll have to apply for an Employment Pass (EP), S Pass, or Work Permit. However, existing DP holders can work as long as their LOC remains valid. When it expires, their employer needs to apply for a Work Visa on their behalf.

If the original EP holder’s status changes and the pass is cancelled, both the associated DP and LOC get cancelled automatically. On the other hand, people who are dependent on an S Pass holder should apply for a Work Permit, S Pass, or EP instead.

 

What Factors May Affect the LOC Application?

The Ministry of Manpower has the final say on LOC applications, and they don’t approve all of them. They assess each application individually, looking at:

  • The applicant’s age, salary, citizenship status, educational background, work experience, and skill set
  • The job role the applicant is applying for
  • The company’s financial health and whether local candidates are available for the position

If the initial application is rejected, an appeal can be submitted addressing the MOM’s concerns, which usually takes two to three weeks for review.

 

What About Pre-approved LOC?

The Pre-approved Letter of Consent (PLOC) enables eligible LTVP/LTVP+ holders, such as spouses or children of a Singaporean or permanent resident, to work in Singapore. The option to apply for PLOC is typically provided to foreigners who apply for or renew an LTVP/LTVP+ with the ICA. This pass is exempt from foreign quota requirements or associated levies.