What is the
Dependant Pass?
Definition Intent
Use this page to understand what "Dependant Pass" means in the Singapore immigration system.
Advisory Intent
Once the definition is clear, move to an advisory guide if you need to know how DP affects a real PR profile.
Decision Intent
If you are choosing between routes or statuses, use a comparison guide rather than stacking multiple glossary pages.
"A Dependant Pass (DP) allows the immediate family members of qualifying work pass holders to live in Singapore. It is issued to the legal spouse and unmarried children under 21 of Employment Pass and S Pass holders earning above the qualifying threshold."
Applying for PR as a DP holder?
View DP PR advisoryKey Facts
Issued to spouse and unmarried children under 21 of qualifying EP/S Pass holders
EP holders may sponsor DP regardless of salary; S Pass holders must earn above $6,000/month
DP holders can work in Singapore with a Letter of Consent (LOC) from their employer
LOC allows employment without a separate work pass
DP holders are eligible to apply for Singapore PR independently
DP and Singapore PR — What You Need to Know
DP holders applying for PR are assessed on both the sponsoring family member's profile and their own individual contribution and integration. A DP holder who has built an active employment record (via LOC), participated in community life, and whose children are enrolled in Singapore schools presents a substantially stronger application than one with a passive residence history.
Book a profile assessmentRelated Terms
The Employment Pass (EP) is Singapore's primary work authorisation for foreign professionals, managers, and executives. It allows holders to work in Singapore for a qualifying employer and is the most common pass held by PR applicants.
The Long-Term Visit Pass (LTVP) is issued to close family members of Singapore Citizens and Permanent Residents who do not qualify for a Dependant Pass. The LTVP+ is an enhanced version issued to spouses of Singapore Citizens, granting work authorisation and a clearer pathway to PR.
A Letter of Consent (LOC) is a document that authorises a Dependant Pass or Long-Term Visit Pass (LTVP+) holder to work for a specific employer in Singapore, without requiring a separate work pass. The LOC is tied to a specific employer — if the holder changes jobs, a new LOC must be obtained.
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