Singapore is one of the most vibrant and thriving cities in the world, known for its robust economy, excellent healthcare system, and high quality of life. As the city-state continues to grow, it attracts individuals from all around the world, not just for work but also for the opportunities it offers to families. For those looking to bring their loved ones to Singapore, there are various family passes available that allow dependants to join Singapore Citizens, Permanent Residents (PRs), or Employment Pass (EP) holders. Understanding these family passes and their requirements can be a crucial step in settling down in Singapore. This guide will walk you through the different types of family passes in Singapore, eligibility criteria, application processes, and more.

 

What Are Family Passes in Singapore?

Family passes in Singapore are designed to allow the dependants of Singapore Citizens, Permanent Residents, and Work Pass holders to live, work, and study in Singapore. The passes issued by the Ministry of Manpower (MOM) and the Immigration and Checkpoints Authority (ICA) vary depending on the status of the primary pass holder and the family member’s relationship to the applicant.

 

Types of Family Passes in Singapore

There are two main authorities responsible for issuing family passes in Singapore: the Ministry of Manpower (MOM) and the Immigration and Checkpoints Authority (ICA). Each authority issues specific types of passes, based on the relationship between the applicant and the primary pass holder.

1. Passes Issued by the Ministry of Manpower (MOM)

The MOM primarily issues the Dependant’s Pass (DP) and Long Term Visit Pass (LTVP), both of which allow dependants to stay in Singapore.

Dependant’s Pass (DP)

The Dependant’s Pass is issued to the legally married spouse, unmarried children under 21 years of age, and other eligible dependants of Employment Pass (EP) and S Pass holders.

  • Eligibility:
    • The primary pass holder (EP/S Pass holder) must earn a minimum fixed monthly salary of S$6,000 to be eligible to sponsor dependants for a DP.
    • The DP holder can also work in Singapore if they obtain a separate Employment Pass, S Pass, or Work Permit through their employer.
  • Who can apply for a DP:
    • Legally married spouse
    • Unmarried children under 21 years of age
    • Common-law spouse (eligible for LTVP, not DP)
    • Unmarried step-children under 21 years of age
    • Unmarried handicapped children above 21 years of age
    • Parents of EP/S Pass holders (only if the primary pass holder earns at least S$12,000 per month)

Long Term Visit Pass (LTVP)

If a family member does not qualify for a Dependant’s Pass, they may be eligible for a Long Term Visit Pass (LTVP). The LTVP is typically issued to dependants who do not fall under the Dependant’s Pass category.

  • Eligibility:
    • Common-law spouse
    • Parents (if the sponsor is an EP/S Pass holder with a salary of at least S$12,000)
    • Unmarried children above 21 years old
    • Handicapped children above 21 years old
  • Working on an LTVP:
    • LTVP holders cannot work in Singapore unless they obtain a job offer and the employer applies for an Employment Pass, S Pass, or Work Permit on their behalf.
    • A Letter of Consent (LOC) may be issued for certain job roles.

Long Term Visit Pass Plus (LTVP+)

The LTVP+ is an enhanced version of the LTVP, which is issued to foreign spouses of Singapore Citizens and Permanent Residents. The LTVP+ provides additional benefits, including eligibility for healthcare and employment benefits, making it a more desirable option for long-term residents.

  • Eligibility:
    • Foreign spouse of a Singapore Citizen or Permanent Resident
  • Benefits:
    • Longer validity periods
    • Eligibility for work through the Letter of Consent (LOC)

2. Passes Issued by the Immigration and Checkpoints Authority (ICA)

The ICA issues Long Term Visit Passes and Long Term Visit Pass Plus to family members of Singapore Citizens or Permanent Residents. The ICA typically handles applications for family members who are citizens, spouses, parents, or children.

Long Term Visit Pass (LTVP)

The ICA’s LTVP is for family members, usually spouses or children, who wish to stay in Singapore for longer periods. These individuals typically need a sponsor who is either a Singapore Citizen or Permanent Resident.

  • Eligibility:
    • Spouse of a Singapore Citizen or Permanent Resident
    • Children (under 21 years) of a Singapore Citizen or Permanent Resident
    • Parents of a Singapore Citizen or Permanent Resident

Long Term Visit Pass Plus (LTVP+)

The LTVP+ is specifically designed for foreign spouses of Singapore Citizens or Permanent Residents and offers enhanced benefits like employment and healthcare coverage. It is generally issued for a longer duration than the standard LTVP.

  • Eligibility:
    • Foreign spouse of a Singapore Citizen or Permanent Resident
  • Benefits:
    • Longer validity periods
    • Eligibility for healthcare benefits
    • Right to work through a Letter of Consent

 

Eligibility Criteria for Family Passes

The eligibility for family passes depends largely on the type of pass you are applying for and the status of the primary pass holder. Here’s a breakdown of key factors:

  • For Dependant’s Pass:
    • The sponsor (EP/S Pass holder) must meet the minimum salary requirement.
    • Only legally married spouses, children under 21 years of age, and other qualifying dependants are eligible.
  • For Long Term Visit Pass:
    • The sponsor (EP/S Pass holder) must meet the minimum salary requirement.
    • Eligible dependants include common-law spouses, unmarried step-children, and parents.
  • For LTVP+:
    • Foreign spouses of Singapore Citizens or Permanent Residents are eligible for this enhanced pass.
  • For ICA-issued LTVP:
    • Spouses, children, and parents of Singapore Citizens or Permanent Residents may qualify, provided they meet the eligibility conditions.

 

How to Apply for Family Passes in Singapore

The process for applying for family passes in Singapore varies based on the type of pass and the issuing authority.

Step 1: Prepare the Necessary Documents Before applying, ensure you have all required documents, including:

  • Proof of relationship (marriage certificate, birth certificate, etc.)
  • Sponsor’s pass details (Employment Pass, S Pass, etc.)
  • Financial documents to prove income (for DP and LTVP applications)
  • Passport and other personal identification documents

Step 2: Submit the Application

  • MOM Applications: Submit online via the Ministry of Manpower’s myMOM Portal.
  • ICA Applications: Apply through the ICA’s e-Services portal.

Step 3: Wait for Approval Processing times for family passes can vary from a few weeks to a couple of months. During this period, the authorities may request additional documentation.

Step 4: Receive and Activate the Pass Once the application is approved, you will receive an In-Principle Approval (IPA) letter or pass approval notification. You can then proceed to activate the pass and bring your family members to Singapore.

 

Key Benefits of Family Passes

  • Family Reunification: Family passes allow you to live and reunite with your loved ones while working in Singapore.
  • Work Opportunities: Eligible pass holders can work with a valid pass, such as an Employment Pass or S Pass, under certain conditions.
  • Healthcare and Social Services: Family members on LTVP+ may be eligible for healthcare and other social services in Singapore.
  • Education: Children of family pass holders are typically eligible for school admission in Singapore.

 

Conclusion

Understanding the different types of family passes available in Singapore is essential for those looking to reunite with their loved ones. Whether you are an Employment Pass holder, a Permanent Resident, or a Singapore Citizen, there are options to bring your family to Singapore. Ensure you meet the eligibility requirements and follow the proper application processes to avoid delays. If you have further questions or need assistance, feel free to reach out to our experts at Majestic Immigration.

By planning ahead and ensuring your family members have the appropriate passes, you can enjoy the benefits of living and working in Singapore as a family.

 

FAQs: Family Passes in Singapore

1. What is the difference between a Dependant’s Pass (DP) and a Long Term Visit Pass (LTVP)?

  • Dependant’s Pass (DP) is for legally married spouses and unmarried children under 21 years of age of Employment Pass (EP) or S Pass holders. To qualify, the primary pass holder must earn a minimum monthly salary of S$6,000.
  • Long Term Visit Pass (LTVP) is for other dependants who do not qualify for the DP, such as common-law spouses, parents, and unmarried children above 21 years old. The pass holder must meet the income requirements, and the LTVP holder must obtain a job offer to work in Singapore.

2. Can a Long Term Visit Pass holder work in Singapore?
LTVP holders are not allowed to work automatically. They must have a job offer in Singapore, and their employer must apply for an Employment Pass, S Pass, or Work Permit on their behalf. In some cases, an LTVP holder may be eligible for a Letter of Consent (LOC) to work.

3. What is the Long Term Visit Pass Plus (LTVP+), and who is eligible for it?
The Long Term Visit Pass Plus (LTVP+) is an enhanced version of the LTVP, specifically for foreign spouses of Singapore Citizens or Permanent Residents. It offers additional benefits, including eligibility for healthcare and employment through a Letter of Consent (LOC). It is typically issued for longer durations compared to the standard LTVP.

4. How long does it take to process a family pass application in Singapore?
The processing time for family passes can vary depending on the type of pass and the complexity of the application. Generally, it takes between 4 to 8 weeks for a Dependant’s Pass or Long Term Visit Pass application to be processed. For more detailed timelines, it’s best to check with the relevant authorities, such as the Ministry of Manpower (MOM) or the Immigration and Checkpoints Authority (ICA).

5. Can I apply for a family pass if I am a Permanent Resident (PR) of Singapore?
Yes, if you are a Singapore Permanent Resident, you can sponsor your spouse, children (under 21 years), and parents for a Long Term Visit Pass (LTVP) or LTVP+, depending on your relationship. The eligibility requirements and application process for PR holders are similar to those for Employment Pass holders, but there are some additional options for your family members to stay longer in Singapore.