What is the Singapore EntrePass?
The Singapore EntrePass is a work visa designed for foreign entrepreneurs, innovators, and experienced investors who want to start and operate a business in Singapore. Unlike the Employment Pass which requires employer sponsorship, the EntrePass allows you to be your own sponsor as a business founder.
Singapore consistently ranks as one of the world's best places to start a business, with its stable legal framework, low tax rates, strategic location, and access to Southeast Asian markets. The EntrePass serves as the gateway for global entrepreneurs to tap into this ecosystem.
Key Advantage: The EntrePass has no minimum salary requirement. Your eligibility is based on your entrepreneurial track record and innovation potential — not your income.
Who is the EntrePass For?
The EntrePass targets three main categories of applicants:
Entrepreneurs
Founders with innovative, scalable business ideas who want to register and run a company in Singapore. Ideal for tech startups, disruptive business models, and venture-backed companies.
Innovators
Individuals with intellectual property, patents, or technology that can be commercialized in Singapore. Researchers collaborating with Singapore institutions also qualify.
Investors
Experienced investors with a strong track record of funding and growing successful startups. Must demonstrate significant investment experience and portfolio.
Serial Founders
Entrepreneurs who have previously founded, scaled, and exited venture-backed or technology companies. Prior success significantly strengthens applications.
EntrePass Eligibility Criteria (2025/2026)
To qualify for the Singapore EntrePass, you must meet both core requirements and at least one innovator, entrepreneur, or investor criterion:
Core Requirements (Must Meet Both)
- Start or intend to start a private limited company registered with ACRA in Singapore.
- If the company is already registered, it must not be more than 6 months old at the time of application.
- Hold at least 30% of the shares in the company.
Innovator, Entrepreneur, or Investor Criteria (Meet at Least One)
- Funded by a Recognized Source: Your company has raised at least S$100,000 from a government-recognized venture capitalist (VC), business angel, corporate VC, or family office.
- Incubator or Accelerator Participant: Your company is a current participant in a government-recognized or internationally renowned incubator or accelerator program.
- Intellectual Property (IP): The business holds an IP registered with an approved national IP institution, and this IP provides a significant competitive advantage.
- Research Collaboration: You have an ongoing research collaboration with a recognized Institute of Higher Learning (IHL) or Research Institution (RI) in Singapore.
- Entrepreneurial & Business Track Record: You have a strong business network and proven track record of founding and scaling highly-successful businesses, OR you have founded and sold a venture-backed or innovative technology business.
Important: Having strong credentials across multiple criteria improves your application strength, even though only one is required.
Businesses NOT Eligible for EntrePass
The following types of businesses are explicitly ineligible for the EntrePass scheme:
- Coffee shops, hawker centres, and food courts
- Bars, nightclubs, and karaoke lounges
- Foot reflexology and massage parlours
- Acupuncture, traditional Chinese medicine, and herbal dispensing businesses
- Employment agencies
- Geomancy businesses
If your business falls into any of these categories, you will need to explore alternative visa options such as the Employment Pass or S Pass.
Key Features of the EntrePass
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Minimum salary | None required |
| Initial validity | Up to 1 year |
| First renewal | Up to 1 year |
| Subsequent renewals | Up to 2 years |
| Foreign worker levy | Not applicable |
| Foreign worker quota | Not applicable |
| Family sponsorship | Eligible after meeting business milestones |
| Path to PR | Eligible to apply for Permanent Residence |
How to Apply for EntrePass: Step-by-Step
All EntrePass applications are submitted online through MOM's e-Service portal. Here's the process:
- Prepare your business plan: Create a comprehensive business plan of up to 10 pages outlining your concept, market opportunity, revenue model, and growth strategy. This is a mandatory document.
- Register your company: Set up a private limited company with ACRA, or prepare to register within 30 days of approval if you haven't yet.
- Gather documents: Collect all required supporting documents including qualifications, funding proof, IP certificates, incubator acceptance letters, etc.
- Submit online application: Apply through the MOM EntrePass e-Service with all required information and documents.
- Pay application fee: S$200 per application (non-refundable).
- Wait for outcome: Processing takes approximately 8 weeks. MOM may request additional documents during this period.
- Receive In-Principle Approval (IPA): If approved, you'll receive an IPA letter valid for 6 months.
- Complete formalities: Enter Singapore, register your company (if not done), and complete the EntrePass issuance at MOM.
Required Documents for EntrePass Application
Prepare the following documents before starting your application:
- Valid passport (minimum 6 months validity)
- Passport-sized photograph (recent, white background)
- Comprehensive business plan (up to 10 pages) — mandatory document
- Proof of funding (investment agreements, term sheets, bank statements)
- Educational certificates and transcripts
- Resume/CV highlighting entrepreneurial track record
- Company registration documents (BizFile, if already registered)
- Intellectual property certificates (if applicable)
- Incubator/accelerator acceptance letter (if applicable)
- Research collaboration agreement with IHL/RI (if applicable)
Business Plan Tip: Your business plan is critical. Focus on the problem you're solving, market opportunity, competitive advantage, revenue model, team credentials, and why Singapore is strategic for your growth. Keep it concise — up to 10 pages maximum.
EntrePass Fees & Processing Timeline
| Item | Cost |
|---|---|
| Application fee (per application) | S$200 |
| Issuance fee (per pass) | S$225 |
| Multiple journey visa (if required) | S$30 – S$120 |
| Stage | Timeline |
|---|---|
| Application processing | Approximately 8 weeks |
| IPA validity | 6 months from approval date |
| Company registration (if not done) | Within 30 days of entering Singapore |
Note: Processing times may vary based on application complexity and whether MOM requests additional documents.
EntrePass Renewal Requirements
EntrePass renewals are not automatic. You must demonstrate business progress through spending and local hiring milestones:
First Renewal (Year 1)
- Total business spending of at least S$100,000.
- Hired at least 1 local employee (Singapore citizen or PR) with minimum salary of S$1,400/month.
- OR met alternative criteria such as raising additional funding or achieving key business milestones.
Second Renewal (Year 2)
- Total business spending of at least S$150,000.
- Hired at least 3 local employees (Singapore citizens or PRs) with minimum salary of S$1,400/month.
- OR raised additional funding or achieved significant revenue growth.
Subsequent Renewals (Year 3+)
- Total business spending of at least S$200,000.
- Hired at least 5 local employees with minimum salary of S$1,400/month.
- Demonstrated business growth, revenue generation, and contribution to Singapore's economy.
Important: Failing to meet renewal criteria may result in non-renewal. Plan your hiring and spending milestones from day one to ensure successful renewals.
Bringing Family to Singapore on EntrePass
EntrePass holders can sponsor family members once they meet specific business milestones:
| Family Pass | Eligibility Requirements |
|---|---|
| Dependant's Pass (Spouse & children under 21) | Business spending ≥ S$100,000 AND hired ≥ 2 local employees (min S$1,400/month each) for at least 12 months |
| Long-Term Visit Pass (Parents, in-laws, common-law spouse, stepchildren) | Business spending ≥ S$100,000 AND hired ≥ 4 local employees (min S$1,400/month each) for at least 12 months |
Note: Dependant's Pass holders can work in Singapore if they obtain a Letter of Consent (LOC) from MOM.
EntrePass vs Employment Pass vs Tech.Pass: Comparison
Choosing the right work visa depends on your profile and goals. Here's how the three main passes compare:
| Factor | EntrePass | Employment Pass | Tech.Pass |
|---|---|---|---|
| Target applicant | Entrepreneurs & founders | Employed professionals | Established tech leaders |
| Minimum salary | None | S$5,600+ (varies by age/sector) | S$22,500/month (last drawn) |
| Employer required | No (self-sponsored) | Yes | No |
| Business ownership | Required (≥30%) | Not applicable | Optional |
| COMPASS points | Not applicable | Required | Not applicable |
| Initial validity | 1 year | 2 years (new) / 3 years (renewal) | 2 years |
| Family sponsorship | After milestones | If salary ≥ S$6,000 | Immediate |
| Path to PR | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Best for | Startup founders | Corporate employees | Senior tech executives |
Not sure which pass suits you? Get a free assessment from Terra Advisory.
Benefits of Singapore EntrePass
The EntrePass offers unique advantages for entrepreneurs looking to build in Asia:
- No salary requirement: Focus on building your business, not meeting income thresholds.
- Self-sponsorship: You are your own employer — no dependence on a company to sponsor your visa.
- No foreign worker quota: Hire talent freely without quota restrictions affecting your personal pass.
- Strategic location: Access to Southeast Asia's 700+ million consumer market.
- Business-friendly tax: Corporate tax capped at 17%, with extensive startup exemptions and incentives.
- Government support: Access to Enterprise Singapore grants, Startup SG programs, and incubator networks.
- Strong IP protection: Singapore ranks among the world's best for intellectual property protection.
- Path to PR: Eligible to apply for Singapore Permanent Residence and eventually citizenship.
Why Start a Business in Singapore?
Singapore consistently ranks as one of the world's best places to do business. Here's why entrepreneurs choose Singapore:
- #1 in Asia for ease of doing business (World Bank rankings).
- Stable legal framework with strong rule of law and contract enforcement.
- Low corporate tax at 17% with extensive exemptions for startups.
- No capital gains tax on investment returns.
- Gateway to ASEAN — access to 700+ million consumers in Southeast Asia.
- World-class infrastructure with excellent connectivity and digital services.
- Diverse talent pool with English as the primary business language.
- Robust investor ecosystem with active VCs, angels, and government co-investment programs.
Common Reasons for EntrePass Rejection
Understanding why applications fail can help you avoid common mistakes:
- Non-innovative business: Traditional retail, F&B, beauty salons, and service businesses typically don't qualify.
- Weak business plan: Lack of clear market opportunity, revenue model, or growth strategy.
- Insufficient funding proof: Unable to demonstrate S$100,000 from recognized investors.
- No track record: First-time founders without relevant experience or credentials.
- Unregistered IP: Claiming intellectual property without proper registration.
- Incomplete documents: Missing certificates, unclear scans, or outdated information.
- Company too old: Business registered more than 6 months before application.
- Shareholding below 30%: Not meeting the minimum ownership requirement.
Tip: If rejected, you may reapply after addressing the shortcomings. Consider strengthening your business plan, securing recognized funding, or obtaining incubator support.
Related Singapore Visa Services
Explore other immigration options based on your profile:
- Singapore Employment Pass (EP) — For professionals employed by Singapore companies.
- Singapore S Pass — For mid-level skilled workers.
- Singapore Permanent Residence — Long-term residency after establishing your business.
- Singapore Company Incorporation — Set up your private limited company.
Frequently Asked Questions: Singapore EntrePass
What is the minimum investment required for EntrePass?
This can be from venture capital firms, business angels, corporate VCs, or family offices. Self-funding or loans from friends and family typically do not qualify.
Is there a minimum salary requirement for EntrePass?
Unlike the Employment Pass which has salary thresholds, the EntrePass evaluates applicants based on their entrepreneurial potential, business innovation, and track record rather than income.
How long does EntrePass processing take?
Processing time may vary depending on the complexity of your application and whether MOM requests additional documents. Ensure all documents are complete to avoid delays.
Can I bring my family to Singapore on EntrePass?
To sponsor a Dependant's Pass for your spouse and children, you need at least S$100,000 in business spending and 2 local employees for at least 12 months. For Long-Term Visit Passes (parents), you need 4 local employees.
What types of businesses qualify for EntrePass?
Qualifying businesses typically include tech startups, fintech, biotech, SaaS platforms, and scalable digital businesses. Traditional businesses like coffee shops, bars, massage parlours, employment agencies, and geomancy businesses are explicitly ineligible.
Can I apply for EntrePass before registering my company?
If approved, you will receive an In-Principle Approval (IPA) letter valid for 6 months. You must register your company within 30 days of entering Singapore on the IPA.
What is the difference between EntrePass and Employment Pass?
EntrePass has no salary requirement but requires business ownership (minimum 30% shares) and innovation criteria. Employment Pass requires employer sponsorship, minimum salary (S$5,600+), and passing the COMPASS points system.
How do I renew my EntrePass?
First renewal requires S$100,000 spending and 1 local employee. Second renewal requires S$150,000 spending and 3 local employees. Subsequent renewals require S$200,000 spending and 5 local employees.
Can EntrePass holders apply for Singapore PR?
After operating your business in Singapore for 2+ years with a good track record, you can apply for PR. Strong business performance, local hiring, and economic contribution improve your chances.
What happens if my EntrePass is rejected?
Common reasons include non-innovative business type, weak business plan, or insufficient funding proof. Consider strengthening your application by securing recognized funding, joining an incubator, or improving your business plan before reapplying.
Do I need to be in Singapore to apply for EntrePass?
The application is submitted online through MOM's e-Service portal. If approved, you will receive an In-Principle Approval (IPA) letter to enter Singapore and complete the pass issuance process.
What should be included in the EntrePass business plan?
Key sections to include: executive summary, problem and solution, target market analysis, competitive advantage, revenue model, go-to-market strategy, team background, financial projections, and why Singapore is strategic for your business.
What support is available for EntrePass holders in Singapore?
Enterprise Singapore offers programs like Startup SG Founder (up to S$50,000 grant), Startup SG Equity (co-investment), and various grants for startups. You can also tap into incubator networks, co-working spaces, and investor communities.
Start Your EntrePass Application
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