Overseas Networks & Expertise (ONE) Pass — Complete 2026 guide
The overseas networks & expertise (ONE Pass) is MOM’s premium work pass for top-tier global talent, launched on 1 January 2023. It offers a five-year validity, multi-employer flexibility, and family-friendly conditions. In 2026 the qualifying threshold is a fixed monthly salary of at least S$30,000 (or equivalent in the last year), OR established achievement in arts, sports, sciences, academia or research as assessed by MOM.
Raffles Corporate Services works with a panel of corporate and employment law firms; this article is general information, not legal advice.
What the ONE Pass offers
The ONE Pass is the most flexible work pass in Singapore. Unlike a standard Employment Pass, the ONE Pass holder may
concurrently start or operate one or more businesses, work for multiple employers simultaneously, and switch employers
without re-applying for the pass. The pass is issued for five years and is renewable for a further five years (subject
to meeting renewal conditions).
Compare with our companion guides our companion guide and incorporation companion piece.
Two qualification tracks
- Salary track: Fixed monthly salary of at least S$30,000 in the last 12 months, OR an offer of at
least S$30,000 from a Singapore-based employer with a market capitalisation/valuation of at least US$500 million OR
annual revenue of at least US$200 million. - Achievement track: Established record of outstanding achievement in arts and culture, sports,
science and technology, or academia and research — assessed by MOM with input from the relevant agencies.
Cost and timeline benchmarks
- ONE Pass application fee: S$105.
- ONE Pass issuance fee: S$225.
- Processing time: 4–8 weeks from a complete submission.
- Pass validity: 5 years; renewable for a further 5 years.
Renewal conditions
To qualify for renewal, the ONE Pass holder must (i) have earned at least S$30,000 in fixed monthly salary on average
through the five-year initial period; (ii) have started or operated a Singapore-based business that hires local
employees; OR (iii) have contributed to Singapore’s economy or society in a manner recognised by MOM. See
Singapore Banking and Finance Work Pass Strategy 2026: A Guide for Financial Institutions for adjacent pass-renewal pathways.
Application step-by-step
- Verify eligibility under the salary or achievement track.
- Collate supporting documents — payslips, employment letters, CV, evidence of achievement.
- Submit via MyMOM Portal.
- Pay application fee of S$105.
- Receive In-Principle Approval (IPA) letter.
- Enter Singapore and complete issuance.
Common mistakes
The frequent failure modes in 2026: (1) confusing “total compensation” with “fixed monthly salary” — MOM tests
the fixed monthly figure only; variable bonus, stock and allowances do not count; (2) applying under the achievement
track without a clear, MOM-recognised letter of endorsement from the relevant Singapore agency; and (3) failing to
maintain the S$30,000 average through year 4–5, which jeopardises renewal.
Authoritative references
Authoritative sources: Ministry of Manpower (MOM) ONE Pass page, immigration formalities with
Immigration and Checkpoints Authority (ICA), and economic context at
Economic Development Board (EDB).
FAQs
Can a ONE Pass holder run multiple businesses? Yes — concurrent directorships and businesses are
permitted, distinguishing the ONE Pass from a standard EP.
Does the ONE Pass cover family? Yes — spouses and children are eligible for Dependant’s Passes;
spouses may work on a Letter of Consent.
Is there an age limit? No statutory limit, but MOM applies a “career-active” test.
Is the ONE Pass a PR pathway? It is not a direct PR route, but ONE Pass holders are well-positioned
to apply for PR through the Professional, Technical Personnel and Skilled Worker scheme.
Can the ONE Pass be downgraded to an EP? Yes — a ONE Pass holder can voluntarily transition to an
EP if they prefer to be tied to a single employer.
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.