Understanding Dependent Passes for Families in Singapore

If you’re working in Singapore on an Employment Pass (EP), S Pass, or another eligible visa, you may want to bring your family to live with you in Singapore. The Dependent Pass (DP) is designed for the spouses, children, and sometimes even the elderly parents of eligible pass holders, allowing families to stay together and enjoy the benefits of living in one of the world’s most vibrant and well-connected countries.

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What is a Dependent Pass?

A Dependent Pass is a type of visa that allows family members of Employment Pass, S Pass, and certain other pass holders to live in Singapore.

The Dependent Pass is typically valid for the same duration as the main pass holder’s visa, and it can be renewed as long as the primary pass holder remains employed in Singapore.

Eligibility for a Dependent Pass

To qualify for a Dependent Pass, the following criteria must be met

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Employment Pass/S Pass Holder

The main applicant must hold an Employment Pass (EP), S Pass, or another qualifying work visa. These passes are usually granted to foreign professionals, skilled workers, and key employees.

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Relationship Status

The family members applying for a Dependent Pass must meet specific relationship requirements. This typically includes spouses, children under 21, and sometimes elderly parents.

Minimum Salary Requirement

For the Dependent Pass to be granted, the main pass holder (i.e., the sponsor) must meet a minimum salary threshold set by the Ministry of Manpower (MOM). This ensures that the sponsor can support their dependents financially while living in Singapore.

Spouse Dependent Pass

Eligibility: The spouse of an Employment Pass or S Pass holder can apply for the Dependent Pass. Common-law spouses and de facto partners may also be eligible, depending on specific circumstances.
Benefits: The spouse of the Employment Pass or S Pass holder can live, travel, and enjoy social activities in Singapore.

Children Dependent Pass

Eligibility: Children under the age of 21, whether biological or adopted, of the Employment Pass or S Pass holder, can apply for the Dependent Pass.
Benefits: Children holding a Dependent Pass can live in Singapore, attend school, and access healthcare services.

Elderly Parents Dependent Pass

Eligibility: In some cases, elderly parents (aged 50 and above) may also qualify for a Dependent Pass if the Employment Pass or S Pass holder meets certain income criteria and can financially support their parents.
Benefits: Elderly parents holding a Dependent Pass can live in Singapore, provided the primary sponsor is able to demonstrate sufficient financial support.

How to Apply for a Dependent Pass

The application process for a Dependent Pass is relatively straightforward. Here’s what you need to do

Eligibility Check

Ensure that you meet the requirements for a Dependent Pass and that the main pass holder meets the salary and relationship criteria.

Prepare Necessary Documents

Passport copies of the family members.
Marriage certificate (for spouses).
Proof of relationship for elderly parents
Proof of the Employment Pass or S Pass holder’s employment, including salary slips and employment details.

Submit the Application

The application for a Dependent Pass can be made online through the Ministry of Manpower’s (MOM) official website. You will need to log in with your SingPass or CorpPass to complete the submission.

Receive Approval

Once the application is approved, you will receive a notification to collect the Dependent Pass. In most cases, a sticker will be placed in the dependent’s passport, allowing them to travel to and reside in Singapore.

Register the Dependent Pass

After arrival in Singapore, the dependent must complete the necessary registration with the Immigration and Checkpoints Authority (ICA) within 30 days.

Renewal and Cancellation of Dependent Pass

Renewal

The Dependent Pass is generally valid for as long as the Employment Pass or S Pass holder remains employed in Singapore. It can be renewed if the main pass holder’s visa is renewed.

Cancellation

If the Employment Pass or S Pass holder’s visa is canceled or expires, the Dependent Pass will also be canceled, and dependents will need to leave Singapore.