Insights for work and life.
Overseas Networks & Expertise (ONE) Pass: Frequently Asked Questions
Short answer: The Overseas Networks & Expertise (ONE) Pass is a five-year, multi-employer pass for top talent, introduced by MOM in 2023. Applicants qualify mainly through a high fixed monthly salary or through exceptional achievement in their field. Because thresholds and tracks have been updated since launch, check the current MOM criteria before you rely on any figure.
Key facts at a glance
- Introduced by the Ministry of Manpower on 1 June 2023 for established high earners and top achievers.
- Validity is five years at issue, which is longer than a standard Employment Pass.
- At launch the salary route required a fixed monthly salary of S$30,000 or more; confirm the current figure with MOM.
- Holders may work for more than one company, including their own, subject to pass conditions.
- Section 5(1) of the Employment of Foreign Manpower Act 1990 still requires a valid work pass before a foreigner is employed.
- A newer ONE Pass AI and Tech track now overlaps with the former Tech.Pass population.
This article is general information only and is not legal advice. For matters needing legal advice, we work with a panel of experienced Singapore law firms.
What is the Overseas Networks & Expertise (ONE) Pass?
The ONE Pass is a work pass for highly accomplished foreign professionals who want the flexibility to base themselves in Singapore and work across several companies. It differs from an Employment Pass because it is not tied to one employer. For a plain-language overview, read our explainer on what the ONE Pass is.
Who qualifies for the ONE Pass?
There are two broad routes. The first is earnings: a high fixed monthly salary, assessed on your fixed pay rather than bonuses. The second is achievement: outstanding accomplishments in arts and culture, sports, academia and research, or business and entrepreneurship, supported by independent evidence. Our guide to who actually qualifies in 2026 walks through how the evidence is judged.
Applicants with a family office link should note the MOM and MAS interaction described in our note on investment professional headcount for family office principals.
How do I apply for a ONE Pass?
The process is generally as follows.
- Confirm which route fits: salary or achievement.
- Collect evidence: salary proof, contracts, awards, publications or business records.
- Submit the application online to MOM, with a certified translation for any non-English document.
- Reply quickly to any MOM request for more information.
- Complete the in-principle approval and issuance steps.
What does the ONE Pass cost and how long does it take?
MOM sets the fees and the target processing time and may revise both. Use the table as a budgeting checklist, then confirm each line with MOM.
| Item | What to budget for |
|---|---|
| Validity | Five years at issue, subject to MOM conditions |
| Salary threshold | S$30,000 fixed monthly salary at launch; verify the current figure |
| Government fees | Application and issuance fees under the MOM schedule |
| Processing time | MOM publishes a target; complex achievement cases can take longer |
How does the ONE Pass compare with the Employment Pass and Tech.Pass?
The Employment Pass is employer-specific and subject to salary and COMPASS-style assessment. The ONE Pass trades that for portability and a longer term, but demands a much higher bar. The Tech.Pass was the earlier route for tech founders and leaders, and the arrival of the ONE Pass AI and Tech track is explained in our article on what replaces Tech.Pass.
What are the main mistakes in a ONE Pass application?
The usual problems are counting bonuses as fixed salary, submitting evidence that cannot be independently verified, and describing achievements without showing impact. The detail is in our article on common mistakes and rejection reasons. Check requirements directly with MOM, and for related schemes see the Economic Development Board and ICA.
Frequently asked questions
Can I work for several employers on a ONE Pass?
Yes, the pass is designed to be portable. You remain bound by its conditions and by any sector licensing rules.
Does the ONE Pass lead to permanent residence?
No. Permanent residence is a separate application to ICA and is assessed on its own merits.
Is salary assessed on total pay or fixed pay?
The salary route looks at fixed monthly salary. Variable pay and bonuses are not counted toward the threshold.
Can family members come with me?
Qualifying family members may apply for Dependant’s Passes or similar passes, subject to MOM criteria.
Do I need an employer in Singapore to apply?
The salary route is generally linked to employment, while the achievement route relies on your record. Check the current MOM guidance on your specific situation.
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.
Last reviewed: 06 October 2026. The Editorial Team.
Real people. Right here in Singapore.