The Singapore EntrePass is a work visa for foreign entrepreneurs who want to start and operate a business in Singapore. Unlike the Employment Pass (which requires an employer), the EntrePass lets you be your own boss — you register a company in Singapore and sponsor yourself. Singapore’s pro-business environment, low corporate tax rates, robust IP protection, and position as Southeast Asia’s financial and tech hub make it one of the world’s best places to launch a startup.
Not sure if the EntrePass is right for you? Take our 2-minute Singapore Visa Match quiz to see all Singapore immigration routes you qualify for.
Overview
The EntrePass was redesigned in 2017 to focus on innovation-driven and venture-backed startups rather than general small businesses. MOM evaluates applications based on your entrepreneurial track record, your business idea’s innovation level, and your investment/support network. Traditional businesses (like F&B outlets, bars, and employment agencies) generally don’t qualify — the pass targets tech companies, scalable ventures, and businesses backed by recognized investors or incubators.
Eligibility Requirements
You must meet criteria in at least one of these categories:
- Venture-backed entrepreneur: Your company has received funding from a recognized VC firm, angel network, or government-affiliated investor.
- Innovator: You hold IP (patents, copyrights) or have an ongoing research collaboration with a Singapore research institution (A*STAR, university).
- Experienced entrepreneur: You have a strong track record of building successful businesses with significant revenue or employment creation.
Business requirements:
- Must register a private limited company (Pte Ltd) with ACRA in Singapore
- Company must be less than 6 months old at the time of application (or not yet registered)
- You must hold at least 30% shareholding
- The business must be innovative and scalable — not a traditional, lifestyle business
Application Process
- Register your company with ACRA (or prepare incorporation documents).
- Prepare a comprehensive business plan with market analysis, financial projections, and evidence of innovation.
- Apply through MOM’s online portal.
- MOM assessment: 4-8 weeks.
- If approved, enter Singapore and collect your EntrePass.
Costs and Fees
- Application fee: SGD $105
- Issuance fee: SGD $225
- Company incorporation: SGD $300-$1,500
- Company secretary (mandatory): SGD $300-$800/year
- Registered office address: SGD $300-$1,000/year (if using a virtual office)
- Paid-up capital: Minimum SGD $1 (but SGD $50,000+ strengthens your application)
Renewal Criteria
The initial EntrePass is for 1 year. Renewal requires meeting progressively stricter benchmarks:
- Year 1 renewal: Business must have total annual expenditure of at least SGD $100,000 and employ at least 1 local PME (earning ≥ SGD $3,900) or 3 local employees.
- Subsequent renewals: Higher spending and employment thresholds. By year 3, expect to demonstrate SGD $300,000+ in annual business spending and 3+ local PMET employees.
These escalating requirements ensure the business is genuinely contributing to Singapore’s economy.
Timeline
- Processing: 4-8 weeks
- Initial validity: 1 year
- Renewal: 1-2 years (meeting business milestones)
Tips
- Innovation is the key word. MOM specifically wants tech-driven, scalable businesses. Frame your business in terms of technology, innovation, and growth potential.
- VC backing dramatically improves approval. If you can secure investment from a recognized Singapore VC (even a small amount), it validates your business in MOM’s eyes.
- Plan for renewal milestones from day one. The SGD $100K spending and local hiring requirements in year 1 mean you need revenue or funding to sustain operations.
- Consider the ONE Pass as an upgrade. Once your business achieves success and your salary exceeds SGD $30,000/month, transition to the ONE Pass for more flexibility and a 5-year duration.
- Singapore’s corporate tax is 17%. The first SGD $200K of income gets partial exemptions, bringing the effective rate even lower for startups.