On March 4, 2024, Manpower Minister Tan See Leng announced in Parliament that Singapore had approved nearly 4,200 applications under the Overseas Networks and Expertise (One) Pass during its first year of implementation. Launched in January 2023, the One Pass targets top talent across various sectors, enabling holders to start, operate, and work for multiple companies simultaneously.

Dr. Tan described the One Pass as “highly selective,” aimed at attracting global talent with valuable networks and specialized skills. Pass holders are permitted to sponsor their dependants, and their spouses can work in Singapore with a Letter of Consent. Furthermore, they are exempt from the Fair Consideration Framework job advertising requirements and the Complementarity Assessment Framework applicable to Employment Pass holders.

To qualify for the One Pass, applicants must have a monthly salary of at least S$30,000, either from the past year or with a prospective employer in Singapore. Dr. Tan emphasized the importance of top talent, stating, “In an era where talent is scarce, businesses follow talent,” and noted that One Pass holders are often leaders in their fields, particularly in growth sectors like finance and information and communications technology.

Since its launch, the One Pass has generated “good interest,” according to Dr. Tan. While a significant portion of One Pass holders have transitioned from existing passes rather than being new applicants, this ratio is anticipated to change over time as the program continues to develop.