Bringing Your Family to Singapore

Complete Guide to Dependant's Pass & Long-Term Visit Pass 

Working in Singapore and want your family with you? 

If you hold an Employment Pass or S Pass, the Ministry of Manpower provides two main immigration passes to help you bring your loved ones to Singapore: the Dependant's Pass (DP) and the Long-Term Visit Pass (LTVP). This comprehensive guide explains everything you need to know about both passes, including eligibility requirements, application processes, and key differences. 

Understanding the Two Passes 

Dependant's Pass (DP) 

The Dependant's Pass is designed for the legally married spouse and unmarried children under 21 (including legally adopted children) of Employment Pass or S Pass holders. This pass allows your immediate family to live with you in Singapore for the duration of your work pass. 

Long-Term Visit Pass (LTVP) 

The Long-Term Visit Pass covers family members who don't qualify for a Dependant's Pass, including common-law spouses, stepchildren, handicapped adult children, and parents (with higher salary requirements). 

Eligibility Requirements 

Who Can Apply? 

As the main pass holder, you must meet these basic requirements for both DP and LTVP: 

✓ Hold a valid Employment Pass or S Pass 

✓ Earn a minimum fixed monthly salary of $6,000 

✓ Be sponsored by an established, Singapore-registered company 

Important Note: The $6,000 salary requirement is based on your individual salary only, not your combined household income. 

Dependant's Pass Eligible Family Members 

✓ Legally married spouse 

✓ Unmarried children under 21 years old 

✓ Legally adopted children under 21 years old 

Long-Term Visit Pass Eligible Family Members 

✓ Common-law spouse 

✓ Unmarried stepchildren under 21 years old 

✓ Unmarried handicapped children aged 21 and above 

✓ Parents (requires minimum salary of $12,000) 

Special Note for Parents: To bring your parents to Singapore on an LTVP, you must earn at least $12,000 per month in fixed salary. 

Key Differences: DP vs LTVP 

Feature	Dependant's Pass	Long-Term Visit Pass
Eligible Family	Legal spouse, children under 21	Common-law spouse, step-children, handicapped adult children, parents
Minimum Salary	$6,000/month	$6,000/month ($12,000 for parents)
Pass Validity	Tied to main pass holder's pass duration	Tied to main pass holder's pass duration
Work Rights	Must obtain separate work pass	Must obtain separate work pass or Letter of Consent
Application Fee	$105 per application	$105 per application

Application Process 

Who Submits the Application? You cannot apply directly for your family members. However, your employer or our experienced team can assist you with the process. We submit the application on your behalf through MOM's online system. 

1. Prepare Documents 

Gather required documents including passports, marriage certificates, birth certificates, and adoption papers if applicable. 

2. Submission 

Your employer or registered agent (you can contact us!) submits the application through MOM's EP Online system and pays the $105 application fee per family member. 

3. Processing Time 

Applications typically take 3 weeks to process. You'll receive an In-Principle Approval (IPA) letter if approved. 

4. Complete Formalities 

Family members enter Singapore with the IPA letter and complete registration at MOM's Employment Pass Services Centre. 

Required Documents 

The basic documents needed include: 

• Copy of passport personal particulars page 

• Marriage certificate (for spouse) 

• Birth certificate (for children) 

• Adoption order (for adopted children) 

• Additional documents as requested by MOM 

  
  

Working in Singapore 

Both Dependant's Pass and Long-Term Visit Pass holders do not have automatic work rights in Singapore. If they wish to work, they have several options: 

Work Pass Options for DP/LTVP Holders 

• Employment Pass: For professionals earning higher salaries 

• S Pass: For mid-skilled workers 

• Work Permit: For specific sectors and occupations 

• Letter of Consent (LOC): For business owners or specific work arrangements 

Want to know more about Work Pass? Read more here.

Important: The prospective employer must apply for the work pass through MOM. The application is subject to prevailing work pass criteria including salary requirements and quotas. 

Renewal and Cancellation 

Renewal Process 

Both passes must be renewed before they expire. Your employer can submit renewal applications up to 6 months before the expiry date. The validity of the renewed pass aligns with your work pass validity. 

Renewal Reminder: Renewal is not automatic. Each application is assessed based on current MOM criteria. Start the renewal process early to avoid any gaps. 

When Passes Are Cancelled 

Your family's DP or LTVP will be automatically cancelled if: 

• Your main work pass is cancelled or expires 

• You become a Singapore Permanent Resident 

• The pass holder decides to leave Singapore permanently 

  
  

For Newborns in Singapore 

If your child is born in Singapore while you hold an EP or S Pass, you must apply for a Dependant's Pass within 6 weeks of birth. The process involves: 

1. Registering the birth with Immigration & Checkpoints Authority Singapore (ICA) to obtain a Special Pass (valid for 42 days*) within 14 calendar days after the baby is born. 

2. Securing the baby's passport from your embassy or high comission. 

3. Submitting the DP application before the Special Pass expires 

*Important note: Any delay beyond 42 days from your child’s birth is an offence under the Immigration Act. 

Important Reminders 

✓ Always maintain valid passes for all family members 

✓ Notify MOM of any changes to personal details or residential address 

✓ Start renewal applications early (up to 6 months before expiry) 

✓ Keep your employer informed of your family's pass status 

✓ Report lost or stolen pass cards immediately 

✓ Ensure your salary meets the minimum requirements continuously 

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only. Requirements and procedures are subject to change. Always refer to the official Ministry of Manpower (MOM) website at www.mom.gov.sg for the most current and accurate information. 

Need Assistance?

As a licensed and experienced agent, K.Merleone specialises in Dependant’s Pass and Long-Term Visit Pass applications. We manage the full process for you, eligibility assessment, document preparation, application submission, and ongoing liaison with MOM. Our team ensures accuracy, compliance, and timely results so you can focus on settling your family comfortably in Singapore. Contact us anytime for professional support.