Singapore's Dependant's Pass (DP): A Family-Centric Residence Permit

The Dependant's Pass (DP) is a dependent residency permit designed by the Singapore government specifically for holders of work passes such as EP and SP, allowing them to apply for a pass for their spouse and unmarried children under 21 years of age. This policy reflects Singapore's family-friendly immigration strategy, enhancing the stability of highly skilled professionals' long-term development in Singapore by addressing the residency issues of their dependents.

Core Policy Advantages of DP Permit

1. Prioritization of educational resources

Children holding a DP pass can enroll directly in Singapore schools without needing to apply for a separate student pass; when applying to government schools, they enjoy a higher admission priority than ordinary international students, providing a convenient pathway for their children's education.

2. Flexible and lenient policies

DP passes have no quota restrictions and do not involve additional taxes or fees. They only require verification of the applicant's eligibility, which significantly lowers the threshold for family members to reside in the country.

DP Holder Employment and Entrepreneurship Policy Guidelines

（1) Work Permit Application Requirements

• EP/SP work permit application: If you need to convert to an EP or SP work permit, you must first cancel your original DP work permit, and then your Singapore employer must submit a work permit application. You can start working only after the application is approved.
• WP Permit Application: When applying for a WP permit, there is no need to cancel the DP permit; the employer can submit the application on behalf of the applicant. It should be noted that the applicant must hold both a DP and a WP permit to work legally, and both permits must have the same validity period. Furthermore, if the employer has already included the applicant in their company's health insurance plan, the DP holder does not need to purchase separate health insurance.

(II) Regulations on Business Operations and Entrepreneurship

DP holders who are self-employed do not need to apply for a work permit; they only need to submit a Letter of Consent (LOC) to the Ministry of Manpower (MOM) of Singapore. The LOC is valid for the same period as the DP. The following are the mandatory requirements for applying for an LOC:

1. Applicants must be sole proprietors, partners, or directors holding at least 30% of the shares in a company registered with the Accounting and Corporate Regulatory Authority (ACRA) of Singapore.
2. Businesses must employ at least one Singapore citizen or permanent resident with a monthly salary of S$1,600 and have their CPF contributions paid for them for three consecutive months.

Once the application is approved, the Ministry of Manpower will notify you of the result via official email.

III) Regulations on Part-time Work

DP holders who engage in part-time work must apply to the Ministry of Manpower for LOC and other relevant documents in advance, and may not conduct paid part-time activities without approval.

LOC exemption application scenarios:

DP holders can be exempt from applying for LOC by participating in the following activities:

• Volunteer activities without any financial reward.
• Social services aimed at charity and public welfare.

Summarize

Singapore has strict laws. If you wish to use your DP (Dedicated Business Partner) status to establish a company in Singapore, you must choose a compliant business consulting firm to assist with all procedures related to company establishment and operation. Stay updated on the latest requirements from various government departments to ensure the legality of your status and company operations.