Relocating to Singapore for work often means planning not just for yourself, but also for your family. If you are holding an Employment Pass, S Pass, Personalised Employment Pass, or EntrePass, the Dependent Pass Singapore scheme is the main pathway that allows your spouse and children to live with you legally in Singapore.
This guide explains everything you need to know about the Dependent Pass in Singapore, including eligibility, application steps, documents required, working and studying rights, renewal, and common pitfalls to avoid.
What Is a Dependent Pass in Singapore?
A Dependent Pass (DP) is a long-term immigration pass issued to eligible family members of foreign professionals working in Singapore. It allows dependants to reside in Singapore for the duration of the main work pass.
The Dependent Pass is tied to the validity of the main work pass. If the main pass is cancelled or expires, the Dependent Pass will automatically be cancelled as well.
A Dependent Pass does not automatically grant the right to work or study, but these activities may be allowed with additional approvals.
Who Is Eligible for a Dependent Pass Singapore?
A Dependent Pass application must be submitted by the employer of the main pass holder or by an authorised employment agency. Dependants cannot apply on their own.
Eligible Main Pass Holders
You may apply for a Dependent Pass for your family members if you hold one of the following:
- Employment Pass (EP)
- S Pass
- Personalised Employment Pass (PEP)
- EntrePass
Eligible Family Members
- Legally married spouse
- Unmarried biological or legally adopted children under 21 years old
Not Eligible
- Common-law spouses
- Parents (they may be eligible for a Long-Term Visit Pass instead)
Financial Requirements for Dependent Pass Singapore
To sponsor dependants:
- EP, PEP, or S Pass holders generally need a minimum monthly salary of S$6,000
- EntrePass holders must meet specific business spending and local hiring requirements set by the authorities
All documents submitted must be in English or officially translated.
Documents Required for a Dependent Pass Application
While document requirements may vary depending on nationality and family background, the most commonly required documents include:
- Passport details page of the dependant
- Marriage certificate for spouse
- Birth certificate or adoption order for children
- Main pass holder’s work pass details
Additional documents may be requested on a case-by-case basis.
Dependent Pass Singapore Application Process
Step 1: Submit the Application
The employer or authorised agent submits the Dependent Pass application:
- Via EP Online for dependants of EP and S Pass holders
- Via manual submission for dependants of PEP and EntrePass holders
Application fee: S$70
Typical processing time: up to 3 weeks
Step 2: In-Principle Approval (IPA)
If approved, an In-Principle Approval letter is issued. This allows the dependant to enter Singapore and proceed with pass issuance.
Step 3: Issue the Dependent Pass
The dependant must be physically in Singapore. Details required include:
- Passport and immigration pass information
- Singapore residential address
- Local contact details
- DP card delivery address
Issuance fee: S$150 per person
Medical declarations or additional forms may be requested.
Step 4: Notification Letter
After issuance, a notification letter is provided. It is valid for one month and allows the dependant to:
- Enter and leave Singapore
- Work only if a separate work approval is granted
Step 5: Biometrics Registration
Some applicants are required to register fingerprints and take photographs at the Employment Pass Services Centre.
Timeframe:
- Dependants of EP, PEP, EntrePass holders: within 2 weeks
- Dependants of S Pass holders: within 1 week
Step 6: DP Card Delivery
Once biometrics are completed, the Dependent Pass card is usually delivered within 4 working days.
What If a Dependent Pass Application Is Rejected?
If a Dependent Pass application is rejected, the employer or authorised agent may submit an appeal within 3 months. Appeals must address the reasons stated in the rejection advisory and include new or clarifying information.
Appeal processing typically takes at least 3 weeks.
Can Dependent Pass Holders Work in Singapore?
Yes, but only with approval.
For Dependants of EP, PEP, or EntrePass Holders
They may:
- Apply for a Letter of Consent (LOC), or
- Obtain their own Employment Pass, S Pass, or Work Permit
For Dependants of S Pass Holders
They must obtain:
- A Work Permit, S Pass, or Employment Pass
- The Letter of Consent is not applicable.
All work-related applications must be submitted by the employer or authorised agent.
Studying in Singapore on a Dependent Pass
- Children on a Dependent Pass may attend private or public primary and secondary schools
- Admission to public schools is not guaranteed
- For university education, most Dependent Pass holders must apply for a Student Pass
Holding a Dependent Pass alone does not guarantee school placement.
Opening a Bank Account on a Dependent Pass
Dependent Pass holders can open a local bank account in Singapore by presenting:
- Dependent Pass card
- Proof of residential address
- Identification documents
Approval is subject to each bank’s internal compliance checks.
Renewing a Dependent Pass Singapore
A Dependent Pass can be renewed up to 6 months before expiry, provided the main work pass is renewed first.
- EP, PEP, and S Pass renewals are submitted via EP Online
- EntrePass renewals are submitted manually
Current eligibility criteria apply at the point of renewal.
Replacing a Lost, Stolen, or Damaged DP Card
Replacement requests must be made within one week.
Replacement fees:
- Damaged card: S$60
- First lost card: S$100
- Second and subsequent losses: S$300
A police report is required for stolen cards.
Reporting Changes to Authorities
Changes that must be reported include:
- Change of residential address
- Changes to personal details
Updates must be submitted through the employer or authorised agent.
Cancelling a Dependent Pass
A Dependent Pass must be cancelled if:
- The main work pass is cancelled
- The dependant leaves Singapore permanently
- The dependant obtains their own work pass
- The main pass holder becomes a Singapore Permanent Resident
The DP card must be returned within one week after cancellation.
Pathway to Permanent Residency
Dependants may be included in a Singapore PR application submitted by the main pass holder. This is the most common route for spouses and children to obtain long-term residency status in Singapore.
Final Thoughts
The Dependent Pass Singapore scheme is a practical and well-established option for families relocating to Singapore. While the process is structured, incomplete documents, incorrect submissions, or misunderstanding eligibility rules can lead to delays or rejection.
Working with an experienced immigration consultancy can help ensure that your Dependent Pass application is prepared accurately, submitted correctly, and managed smoothly from start to finish.
