Can a Dependant Pass Holder Work in Singapore? [2025 Guide by Globexa Immigration]
Dependant Pass Work Rules 2025 – Singapore
With Singapore’s growing demand for skilled professionals and global talent, many Indian families are relocating to the island nation for career opportunities. But one of the most frequently asked questions is:
“Can a Dependant Pass (DP) holder work in Singapore in 2025?”
The short answer is yes—but only under specific conditions.
In this detailed blog, Globexa Immigration, your trusted Visa counselor in Panipat, explains the latest 2025 regulations for Dependant Pass holders in Singapore, the work authorization process, and how to legally start a job or business while accompanying a spouse or parent.
1. What is a Dependant Pass (DP)?
A Dependant Pass is issued to spouses and children of foreign professionals who hold valid work passes such as:
- Employment Pass (EP)
- S Pass
- Overseas Networks & Expertise Pass (ONE Pass)
- EntrePass
- Tech.Pass
It allows dependants to live and stay in Singapore during the validity period of the primary pass holder. However, the right to work is not automatic and is regulated by the Ministry of Manpower (MOM).
2. Major Update in 2025: No More Automatic LOC for Work
Until recently, Dependant Pass holders could apply for a Letter of Consent (LOC) to work. But as of 2025:
All DP holders who wish to work in Singapore must apply for a valid work pass.
This includes:
- Employment Pass (EP)
- S Pass
- Work Permit
🔸 Exception: Spouses of ONE Pass or Tech.Pass holders may still apply for a Letter of Consent (LOC).
📌 At Globexa Immigration, we closely track such regulatory changes to help you comply with the latest Singapore work visa rules.
3. What Work Passes Can DP Holders Apply For?
To work legally, a Dependant Pass holder must secure a job, and the employer must apply for a work pass on their behalf.
Here are the 3 main types of work passes in 2025:
1. Employment Pass (EP)
- For: Professionals, executives, managers
- Minimum salary: SGD 5,600 (or SGD 6,200 for financial sector jobs)
- Requirements: Academic qualifications, experience, COMPASS framework
- Applied by: Employer
2. S Pass
- For: Mid-skilled workers (e.g., technicians, coordinators)
- Minimum salary: SGD 3,300
- Conditions: Quota and levy requirements
- Applied by: Employer
3. Work Permit
- For: Lower-skilled roles in construction, manufacturing, or domestic work
- Applied by: Employer (must meet quota and sector-specific conditions)
🌐 Need help finding an eligible job and applying for a work pass? Globexa Immigration offers the Best Immigration services in Panipat and Haryana, assisting job-seeking DP holders with eligibility evaluation, documentation, and employer coordination.
4. What is the COMPASS Framework?
As of 2025, all EP applications are evaluated under COMPASS (Complementarity Assessment Framework), which assesses:
- Salary benchmarks
- Candidate’s qualifications
- Nationality diversity
- Support for local employment
✅ Globexa Immigration helps clients prepare strong EP applications with COMPASS-compliant documentation.
5. Can DP Holders Start a Business in Singapore?
Yes! As a DP holder, you can register and operate a business in Singapore if:
- You hold at least 30% of shares in the company.
- You are a director of the company.
- You apply for and are granted a Letter of Consent (LOC) from MOM.
This option is ideal for:
- Freelancers
- Consultants
- Entrepreneurs
- E-commerce sellers
At Globexa Immigration, we assist with:
- Business registration with ACRA
- Preparing LOC application
- Drafting necessary supporting documents
Let us help you launch your business in Singapore—legally and efficiently.
6. Can DP Holders Work Remotely for a Foreign Employer?
Yes, remote work is allowed, provided:
- Your employer is outside Singapore
- You do not provide services to Singapore-based companies
📌 If you receive income from a foreign company and do not engage with local clients, you do not need a work pass.
However, if you freelance, consult, or offer services to local businesses, you’ll require a valid work pass or LOC.
💼 Contact Globexa Immigration, the Best Visa counselor in Panipat, to assess your unique case and avoid compliance issues.
7. Common Scenarios for Indian Families
Scenario 1:
A woman moves to Singapore on a DP with her husband who holds an EP. She gets a job offer as a teacher.
👉 She must apply for an Employment Pass through the school.
Scenario 2:
A husband joins his wife in Singapore on a DP. He starts an online graphic design business.
👉 He must apply for a Letter of Consent to operate the business legally.
Scenario 3:
A dependent child wants to intern part-time at a local company.
👉 The employer must apply for a Work Permit or Training Work Permit depending on eligibility.
8. Key Takeaways for 2025
- DP holders must apply for a work pass to work legally in Singapore.
- LOCs are now limited to business owners and dependants of ONE/Tech.Pass holders.
- Remote work is allowed only if clients and employers are outside Singapore.
Business setup is possible with LOC and proper ACRA registration.
9. Get Expert Help from Globexa Immigration
As the Best Immigration services in Panipat and Haryana, Globexa Immigration offers tailored solutions for:
- Singapore Employment & S Pass Applications
- Business LOC Applications
- Remote Work Assessments
- Family Visa Packages
- Post-Arrival Support & Renewals
🎯 Whether you’re a student, a working spouse, or a family member looking to build a life in Singapore, we’re here to help.
📍 Visit us in Panipat for expert visa guidance.
📞 Call now to consult with a certified Visa counselor in Panipat.
