Dependent Pass Application
Dependent Pass (DP): Bringing Your Loved Ones Closer to You in Singapore
The Dependant Pass in Singapore, issued by the Ministry of Manpower (MOM), allows professionals holding work visas (such as the Employment Pass) to bring their family members—spouses and children under 21—to live in Singapore. With the necessary approvals, family members on the Dependant Pass can work or attend school in Singapore.
Dependent Pass (DP) Eligibility Criteria
Guide to the Dependent Pass (DP) Application Process
Learn everything you need to know about applying for a Dependent Pass (DP) in Singapore. This guide explains the step-by-step application process, expected processing time, and important factors to consider when securing a DP for your spouse and children.
Prepare and Submit Necessary Documents
Gather all required documents before submitting the Dependent Pass (DP) application.
- Please upload all necessary documents stated as below.
- Approximate Duration: If the documents are readily available, it should take 1-2 days. If you need to request copies or translations, this could take up to 1-2 weeks.
- Make sure scanned copies are clear, legible, and of high quality to avoid delays in processing.
- Passport: A clear scan of the applicant's passport bio-data page (validity must exceed 6 months).
- Birth Certificate: For dependents below 21 years old.
- Marriage Certificate: If applying for a legally married spouse.
- Adoption Certificate: If applying for adopted children below 21 years old.
- Vaccination Records (for children aged 12 and below):
- Provide a translated and notarized copy of the student vaccination records, along with the original vaccination record.
- Bring the English version of vaccination records to a clinic to have the doctor complete the vaccination registration form with a medical certificate.
- Ensure all documents are in English or officially translated into English.
- Check the validity of passports and ensure all required certificates are up-to-date.
- Yobbi will ensure that all required documents are correctly prepared and submitted on your behalf, reducing the risk of delays and ensuring the application is complete.
Monitor the Status and Await Approval
Yobbi will help to complete the online application form via the Ministry of Manpower (MOM) portal. Processing time typically takes 2-4 weeks, but this can vary depending on the complexity of the application and whether additional documents are required.
- After submitting the application, Yobbi will track the status of your DP application on your behalf.
- Respond to MOM Requests: If MOM requires additional documents or clarifications, Yobbi will assist you in providing the necessary information.
- Check for Updates: Yobbi will track any status changes, such as requests for more documents or a final decision.
While you’re waiting for approval, there are no additional documents to submit unless requested by MOM. However, keep the following documents ready:
- A copy of the confirmation receipt or email from MOM confirming that your DP application has been successfully submitted. You should have received this when you completed Step 1 (Prepare & Submit).
- If MOM requests further documentation, you’ll need to provide any additional supporting documents. For example: Updated employment details (if employment status changes). Translated or notarized copies of documents if any are missing. Clarification on vaccination records if discrepancies are found.
- Be patient, as the processing time may vary depending on your case.
- Ensure your contact details (email/phone) are correct to avoid missing any updates.
- Rejection Risks: Applications can be rejected if documents are incomplete, inaccurate, or if vaccination records don’t meet Singapore's standards.
- Yobbi will ensure that you are updated on the status of your application and provide assistance if additional information is required by MOM.
Receive and Review the Approval
Once the DP application is approved, you will receive an official notification from MOM through the portal or by email, and the Dependent Pass will be issued for your family member(s). Processing time is usually on the same day to 1 week.
- Yobbi will inform you of the outcome and you need to carefully check all details in the approval letter (including the name, dates, and validity) to ensure accuracy.
- If there are any discrepancies or errors, immediately contact MOM to rectify them or contact Yobbi for assitance.
- If approved, Yobbi will assist you with ensuring the applicant collects the Dependant Pass. If rejected, Yobbi will help you understand the rejection reasons and, if applicable, guide you through re-application or appeal.
- Approval Notification (email or letter): Ensure you have received and reviewed the official DP approval notification.
- Keep the previously submitted documents from Step 1 handy, in case you need to clarify any discrepancies. Such as: passport of the dependent, birth certificates or marriage certificates (as applicable), vaccination records (if applicable)
- Check for Accuracy: Always verify the information in the approval letter and reach out to MOM for corrections if necessary.
- Timeline for Corrections: If there is an issue, MOM will usually address it quickly, but it's best to notify them within a few days of receiving the approval.
- Prepare for Collection: Once the DP is approved, you will be preparing to collect the physical DP card in Step 4.
- Yobbi will ensure that you are notified promptly of the approval and guide you through the next steps for collecting your DP status.
Collect the Dependent Pass
After receiving the approval, the DP can be collected either by self-collection at the MOM or through an authorized representative.
- If the DP is approved, the applicant will need to collect the Dependant Pass in Singapore. Yobbi will guide the applicant through the collection process.
- Collect DP Card: After verification, collect your Dependant Pass (DP Card) according to the date of your appointment.
- Depending on your location, you may also receive a notification for collection from the Immigration and Checkpoints Authority (ICA).
- Approval Letter/Notification: Bring a printed or digital copy of the approval letter or the notification from MOM or ICA that confirms your Dependent Pass approval.
- Valid Passport of the Dependent: The dependent must present their original passport (the one used for the application) to collect the DP.
- Receipt or Collection Acknowledgment: If you received a collection acknowledgment or confirmation receipt from MOM/ICA (either online or at the time of submission), you should bring that along as proof of your DP approval.
- Employer’s Letter (if applicable): In some cases, if you are collecting the DP through an authorized representative (such as your employer or employment agent), you may need a letter of authorization from the employer or agent.
- Ensure Compliance with Conditions: Review the conditions stated on the DP (e.g., employment rights, duration of stay, etc.).
- Plan for Renewal: The DP is typically valid for the same duration as the primary work pass (EP, S Pass, etc.), so be sure to apply for a renewal at least 6 months before expiry to avoid disruptions.
- Yobbi will ensure that you have all the necessary documents prepared for your MOM appointment and assist in collecting your DP card.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I apply for a Dependent Pass for my parents?
No, the Dependent Pass is only applicable to spouses and children under the age of 21 of the primary work pass holder. Parents are not eligible for a DP under current Singapore regulations. However, parents can apply for a Long-Term Visit Pass (LTVP) if they meet certain criteria. To learn more about the eligibility and application process for the Long-Term Visit Pass, visit here for more details.
How long is a Dependent Pass valid for?
A Dependent Pass is generally valid for the same duration as the primary work pass holder’s employment pass. It can be renewed, typically up to 6 months before its expiration.
Can dependents work in Singapore while on a Dependent Pass?
Typically, dependents on a Dependent Pass are not allowed to work in Singapore. However, if the spouse of an Employment Pass or S Pass holder wishes to work, they may apply for an Employment Pass, S Pass, or Letter of Consent (LOC), depending on their qualifications and the type of job.
Can I convert a Dependent Pass to an Employment Pass or S Pass?
No, a Dependent Pass cannot be directly converted into an Employment Pass or S Pass. However, if the dependent wishes to work in Singapore, they will need to apply for a separate work pass (e.g., Employment Pass, S Pass, or Work Permit) based on their qualifications and job offer.
Can a Dependent Pass holder sponsor dependents of their own?
No, a Dependent Pass holder cannot sponsor their own dependents. Only the primary pass holder (e.g., Employment Pass holder, S Pass holder) is eligible to sponsor dependents under the Dependent Pass scheme.
Is there an age limit for children to qualify for a Dependent Pass?
Yes, children must be under the age of 21 to be eligible for a Dependent Pass. If the child turns 21, they will no longer be eligible for the DP and may need to apply for another pass (such as a Student Pass or Long-Term Visit Pass), depending on their situation.