Procedures and processes for applying for an Entrepass work permit - Visa for entrepreneurs in Singapore

Singapore, known as Asia’s leading economic and technology hub, has always been an attractive destination for global entrepreneurs and investors. To support and encourage the development of innovative technology businesses, the Singapore government has launched the EntrePass program – a work visa specifically for innovative entrepreneurs and investors who wish to operate businesses here.

So how do you apply for EntrePass? What are the steps to prepare? This article will guide you through the steps, procedures, conditions, and experiences to own this special visa, helping you realize your dream of starting a business in one of the most livable countries in the world.

1. What is an Entrepass work permit?

The EntrePass is for start-up entrepreneurs, high-calibre innovators and experienced investors who want to run a venture-backed or technology-enabled business in Singapore.

2. Conditions for granting an Entrepass work permit

EntrePass is a work permit for:

• Innovative entrepreneurs.
• Innovator with big vision.
• Experienced investors looking to run businesses in Singapore in the cutting-edge technology or venture capital sectors.

This license applies to all nationalities and citizenships. 

You can apply for an EntrePass if meet both conditionsn next:

1. Establish or intend to establish a private company in Singapore

• The company must be registered with the Accounting and Corporate Regulatory Authority of Singapore (Accounting and Corporate Regulatory Authority (“ACRA”)).
• The applicant must hold at least 30% of the shares in the company.
• The company operates in the field of cutting edge or venture capital technology.

2. Meet at least one of the following criteria:

• Raising capital for current or previous business: Raised at least SGD 100.000 from a single round of funding from existing or previous investors for the business.
  • Supported by: 
  • A Singapore government recognized startup incubator or accelerator.
  • Or a reputable international organization.
• Establishment and transfer of technology enterprises
• Registered or intending to register intellectual property (IP) with a intellectual property organization recognized country
• Has active research collaboration projects with:
  • Institute of Higher Education (IHL).
  • Research Institute (RI).

3. Documents and papers required to apply for EntrePass work permit

You will need the following documents to apply for an EntrePass work permit: 

• The personal information page of your passport
• Business plan in English. The plan must include the following in 10 pages or less:
  • Products and services offered.
  • Market analysis.
  • Operational plan.
  • Management team profile.
  • Supporting documents such as license agreements, product certificates and patents confirm.
• Documents stating the type of business and previous business activities.
• Curriculum vitae (CV) and previous employment certifications (if applicable) detailing professional experience, awards or recognitions.
• The company's latest business profile.
• Latest financial statements (if the company has been registered with ACRA for more than 12 months)
• Other documents that may support your EntrePass application.

4. Entrepass work permit issuance process

The Entrepass work permit application process in Singapore involves the following steps: 

5. How does GLA support you in applying for an Entrepass work permit? 

GLA is a professional consultancy unit, always accompanying you in registering for EntrePass work permit in Singapore. GLA provides comprehensive support services from document preparation, application submission until you receive your EntrePass card.

• Analyze your personal and company profiles to assess your eligibility for an EntrePass.
• Build a specific application roadmap to ensure your Entrepass application has the highest approval rate.
• Support in preparing all necessary documents, including personal information, company profile, and related documents as required by MOM.
• Your representative submits the application directly through MOM's EP Online system, monitors and updates the application status regularly.
• Advise and support you to complete Procedures for setting up a company in Singapore, meet EntrePass registration requirements.
•  Providing solutions tax, accounting, Open a corporate bank account in Singapore, and Rent a reputable business office address.

6. Frequently asked questions about the Entrepass work permit

Highlights

• What is EntrePass: It is a work permit for entrepreneurs and innovators who want to run a business in Singapore.
• Conditions for being granted an EntrePass: Must be established or planning to establish a company in Singapore, meeting at least one of the criteria for raising capital, support from a reputable organization or owning intellectual property.
• Benefits of EntrePass: Flexibility in starting a business, renewable, and the ability to apply for permanent residency later.
• Sectors not eligible for EntrePass: Sectors such as cafes, restaurants, feng shui services, etc.