DP → EP and DP → LOC conversion routes — Step-by-step walkthrough
DP → EP and DP → LOC conversion routes are the pathways by which a Dependant Pass holder in Singapore moves to their own work authorisation. Because the Letter of Consent route for Dependant Pass holders was withdrawn, most dependants who wish to work must now convert to an Employment Pass, S Pass or work permit. This walkthrough explains the routes and process.
Raffles Corporate Services works with a panel of corporate and employment law firms; this article is general information, not legal advice.
Why DP → EP and DP → LOC conversion routes changed
Until 1 May 2021, a Dependant Pass holder could work on a Letter of Consent (LOC) once an employer agreed to sponsor them, without needing a full work pass. The Ministry of Manpower withdrew this concession, so a Dependant Pass holder who wants to work must now have their employer apply for a proper work pass, principally the Employment Pass, S Pass or work permit. The LOC route survives only for Long-Term Visit Pass holders who are family members of Singapore citizens or permanent residents.
The framework rests on the Employment of Foreign Manpower Act 1990, which requires every foreign worker to hold a valid work pass for the specific employer. Working on a Dependant Pass alone is not permitted.
The DP to EP route
The most common conversion is from Dependant Pass to Employment Pass. The employer submits an Employment Pass application through MOM’s EP Online portal; the candidate must meet the Employment Pass qualifying salary, which from 2025 is a fixed monthly salary of at least S$5,600 (and higher in the financial services sector), and pass the COMPASS points framework. On approval, the individual cancels the Dependant Pass and takes up the Employment Pass. For the corporate setup that supports sponsoring an EP, see our cross-site note on Sole proprietorship vs LLP vs Pte Ltd.
The DP to LOC route, where it still applies
For a Long-Term Visit Pass holder who is the spouse of a Singapore citizen or permanent resident, the Letter of Consent route remains available: the employer applies for an LOC, which lets the holder work without a separate work pass for the duration of the LTVP. This route is not open to ordinary Dependant Pass holders, a distinction frequently misunderstood. Our cross-site guide on Singapore Corporate Tax 2026: Rates, Exemptions and Filing Guide covers the tax implications once the individual begins earning.
Step-by-step conversion
The conversion runs as follows: the employer confirms the role meets the relevant pass criteria, submits the work-pass application through EP Online, obtains the in-principle approval, and the candidate then cancels the Dependant Pass and activates the new work pass. There is generally no need to leave Singapore. Processing of the Employment Pass application is usually within three weeks. Our on-site walkthrough on The Career Conversion Programme (CCP): How to Pivot Your Mid-Career Hires shows how conversion fits into a mid-career hiring plan.
Cost and timeline
An Employment Pass costs S$105 to apply and S$225 to issue, with processing usually within three weeks; a successful candidate must meet the S$5,600 qualifying salary floor. A work permit attracts a foreign-worker levy, which varies by sector and quota. The Dependant Pass should be cancelled only once the new pass is approved, to avoid a gap in legal status.
Common mistakes
The leading error is assuming the old Dependant Pass LOC route still exists and allowing the individual to start work without a valid pass, which is an offence for both employer and employee. Others include cancelling the Dependant Pass before the new pass is approved, and applying for an Employment Pass where the candidate falls short of the qualifying salary or COMPASS threshold.
FAQs on DP to EP and DP to LOC conversion routes
Can a Dependant Pass holder still work on a Letter of Consent? No. The LOC route for Dependant Pass holders was withdrawn on 1 May 2021; they must obtain their own work pass.
Who can still use the LOC route? Long-Term Visit Pass holders who are family members of Singapore citizens or permanent residents.
What salary is needed for the EP conversion? A fixed monthly salary of at least S$5,600, higher in the financial services sector, plus a pass under the COMPASS framework.
Do I need to leave Singapore to convert? Generally no; the Dependant Pass is cancelled and the new work pass activated locally once approved.
Authoritative sources: the Ministry of Manpower. See also the Immigration & Checkpoints Authority. See also the Economic Development Board.
Need help with this? Call, SMS or WhatsApp +65 8501 7133, or email [email protected]. Little Big Employment Agency (EA Licence 19C9790) works with a panel of corporate and employment law firms; this article is general information, not legal advice.