Quick answer: A Singapore Dependant’s Pass (DP) allows certain family members of eligible work-pass holders to live in Singapore. It does not by itself authorise employment or running a business.
Who qualifies for a Dependant’s Pass?
For a family member of an Employment Pass or S Pass holder, the main pass holder must:
- hold an Employment Pass or S Pass;
- earn at least S$6,000 in fixed monthly salary, based on the main holder’s salary rather than combined household income; and
- be sponsored by an established Singapore-registered company, normally the employer.
A DP may be sought for:
- a legally married spouse; and
- an unmarried child under 21, including a legally adopted child.
A common-law spouse, eligible stepchild, adult child with a disability or parent may instead fall under Long-Term Visit Pass rules. Different family eligibility conditions apply to Personalised Employment Pass, EntrePass and Overseas Networks & Expertise Pass holders.
Family members of an EP holder applying specifically as an overseas intra-corporate transferee under WTO GATS or an applicable free-trade agreement are generally not eligible for a DP or Long-Term Visit Pass unless the applicable agreement expressly provides otherwise.
Duration and renewal
The DP’s duration is tied to the main work pass or the duration requested, whichever is shorter. It can be renewed, but renewal is assessed under the criteria then in force and is not guaranteed. If the main pass expires or is cancelled, the dependant’s right to remain in Singapore is affected.
Who submits the application?
- For dependants of EP or S Pass holders: the employer or appointed employment agency of the main pass holder.
- For dependants of PEP or EntrePass holders: the main pass holder.
- For an EP under the sponsorship route: the local sponsor.
An application may be made with the main work-pass application or later. A separate application is required for each family member. MOM recommends applying after the main pass is approved because family application fees are not refunded merely because the main application fails.
Processing times and government fees
| Main pass | Typical MOM processing time |
|---|---|
| Employment Pass or S Pass | Within three weeks for most cases |
| EP Sponsorship, PEP or EntrePass | Within six weeks for most cases |
- Application: S$105 for each DP.
- Issuance: S$225 for each DP.
- Multiple Journey Visa: S$30 if applicable.
Additional checks can extend the processing time. A dependant should not enter Singapore in reliance on a pending DP application, and MOM may not extend a short-term visit pass simply because the DP is still pending.
Can a DP holder work in Singapore?
The DP alone does not permit work. A prospective employer may apply for one of the following, depending on the role and employer:
- an Employment Pass, subject to prevailing salary and COMPASS requirements;
- an S Pass, subject to prevailing salary, quota and levy requirements; or
- a DP-Work Permit, subject to the applicable employer quota and levy.
A DP holder who receives an EP or S Pass obtains that pass’s independent work and stay privileges and must have the DP cancelled before the new pass is issued. A DP-Work Permit is tied to the DP and has no general minimum qualifying salary, but employer quota and levy still apply.
Can a DP holder start or run a business?
An eligible DP holder who owns an ACRA-registered business may apply for a Letter of Consent for DP business owners. The person must not begin operating the business until MOM grants the LOC.
Company registration and immigration permission are separate. For incorporation and company-secretarial assistance, see Raffles Corporate Services and Singapore Secretary Services. Their services do not guarantee an LOC or other pass.
Documents and practical checks
Common documents include the dependant’s passport and proof of relationship, such as a marriage or birth certificate. Non-English documents must generally be submitted with an English translation in MOM’s required format. Names, dates and relationships should be consistent across passports, certificates and the main holder’s records.
Families should also consider what happens if the main holder changes employer, loses the main pass or leaves Singapore. Employment notice periods, school arrangements, housing and insurance can all be affected by the main pass timeline.
Official MOM sources
- DP eligibility
- Duration and key facts
- Application, processing and fees
- Working or operating a business
Accurate as at and last reviewed: 15 July 2026.