Employment Pass (EP) for Business Owners & Entrepreneurs
Work in Singapore and Manage Your Business with an Employment Pass
If you own or manage a Singapore company and plan to work in Singapore, you may need an Employment Pass (EP) to take up an eligible role in your business.
Yobbi Consultancy helps business owners and entrepreneurs assess their EP eligibility, prepare the required documents and navigate the application process.
Can a Business Owner Apply for an Employment Pass?
Yes, a business owner may apply for an Employment Pass if they are employed by their Singapore company in an eligible role and meet the applicable EP requirements.
However, owning or incorporating a Singapore company does not automatically qualify you for an Employment Pass.
The application is assessed based on factors including the proposed role, salary, candidate’s background and the employer’s circumstances.
- Company ownership alone does not guarantee EP approval.
Who Is Our Employment Pass Service For?
- Foreign Business Owners — For foreign entrepreneurs who have established or are establishing a Singapore company and intend to work in the business.
- Entrepreneurs & Founders — For entrepreneurs who plan to take on a genuine professional, managerial or executive role within their Singapore company.
- Company Directors — For foreign directors who intend to work in Singapore in an eligible role and require an appropriate work pass.
- Foreign Professionals — For professionals who have a qualifying employment role with a Singapore company and meet the applicable EP requirements.
Employment Pass for Business Owners: What Matters
If you own a Singapore company and plan to work in the business, your company ownership and your Employment Pass application are considered separately.
The key question is whether your Singapore company can employ you in a genuine role that meets the Employment Pass requirements.
Owning a Singapore company does not automatically qualify you for an Employment Pass.
The application should demonstrate a genuine employment arrangement between you and your Singapore company.
How Yobbi Supports Business Owners
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Initial Assessment
We review your company, business activities, professional background, proposed role and other relevant information to determine whether an Employment Pass application may be suitable.
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Application Preparation
We guide you through the information and supporting documents required for your application and help ensure the details are properly prepared.
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Application Submission
We assist with preparing and submitting your Employment Pass application through the appropriate MOM process.
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Application Monitoring
We monitor the application status and assist with follow-up requirements if additional information or documents are requested.
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Approval & Pass Issuance
Once approved, we guide you through the next steps to complete the Employment Pass issuance process.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I change the business structure or ownership after obtaining my Employment Pass?
Changes to shareholding, directorship or the company’s structure may affect your employment arrangement or work pass. It is advisable to review the implications before making significant changes.
Do I need to maintain my Singapore company after obtaining the Employment Pass?
Yes. Your company and employment arrangement should remain genuine and active. Significant changes to the company’s operations or your role may affect the continued validity of the work pass.
Can I eventually apply for Singapore Permanent Residence as a business owner?
Yes, Employment Pass holders may be eligible to apply for Singapore Permanent Residence. However, PR approval is not automatic and each application is assessed separately.
Can I work for another company while holding an Employment Pass through my own company?
An Employment Pass is granted for a specific employer and role. If you wish to work for another company, a separate work pass arrangement may be required.
What happens if my business does not perform as expected after I receive my Employment Pass?
Your company’s ongoing business activities and your employment arrangement should remain genuine. If there are significant changes to the business, your Employment Pass status may need to be reviewed.
Can my spouse or family members join me in Singapore?
Eligible family members may be able to apply for the relevant passes, subject to the applicable requirements. Their eligibility is assessed separately from your Employment Pass.