Q1: What options are available for Dependent Pass holders who want to work for themselves in Singapore?

In the past, Dependent Pass holders could not register their own businesses or apply for valid work visa while pursuing freelance, consultancy, or sole proprietorship ventures.

However, as of May 1, 2021, DP holders can register a Sole Proprietorship, Limited Liability Partnership or Private Limited Company and then apply for an applicable work pass.

This can be done by applying for a Letter of Consent (LOC) or an Employment Pass (EP) as a business owner.

Q2: Can a Dependent Pass holder become a business owner in Singapore?

Certainly! A DP holder has the flexibility to:

• Become a registered owner of a Sole Proprietorship with registration at ACRA.

• Act as a Partner in a Limited Liability Partnership.

• Serve as a Director and Shareholder of a private limited company incorporated in Singapore.

Q3: What should I do after finding a job in Singapore?

Congratulations on your new job! If you are employed by a company in Singapore, your employer must submit a work visa application to the Ministry of Manpower (MOM). Upon approval and issuance of the work pass, you can begin your work with the new employer.

Similarly, if you are a Business Owner applying for a work pass, you will follow the same process. You can commence work for your business once the work pass has been approved and issued. In the meantime, while awaiting work pass approval, you can start preparing your website, social media content, and platforms, ensuring you're ready to begin work as soon as your pass is in hand.

Q4: What types of work passes can a Dependent Pass holder apply for as a Business Owner?

Depending on your business structure, you can apply for the following work passes:

As a Registered Owner of a Sole Proprietorship, you can apply for a Letter of Consent (LOC).

If you are a Partner in a Limited Liability Partnership, you can also apply for a Letter of Consent (LOC).

If you serve as a Director and Shareholder of a private limited company, you have the option to apply for either a Letter of Consent (LOC) or an Employment Pass (EP).

Q5: Can I work from home without needing a Letter of Consent?

Yes! According to the Ministry of Manpower (MOM), a Letter of Consent (LoC) is not required when:

• The Dependent Pass (DP) holder is working from home for an overseas company.

• The overseas company has no local presence in Singapore.

• The DP holder is not engaging in meetings or providing services to clients in Singapore.

This means you can work for your overseas employer from the comfort of your home in Singapore as long as these conditions are met. So, you can be your own boss, even in your pyjamas – SOLD as long as you're not really working in Singapore!

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Last updated 10 October 2023