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Overseas Networks & Expertise (ONE) Pass , Complete 2026 guide

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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).

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Two qualification tracks

Cost and timeline benchmarks

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

  1. Verify eligibility under the salary or achievement track.
  2. Collate supporting documents , payslips, employment letters, CV, evidence of achievement.
  3. Submit via MyMOM Portal.
  4. Pay application fee of S$105.
  5. Receive In-Principle Approval (IPA) letter.
  6. 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.

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