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Moving to Singapore for work often means bringing family members along, and the Dependent Pass (DP) makes that possible. Designed for spouses and children of eligible work pass holders—such as those with an Employment Pass (EP), Personalised Employment Pass (PEP), or S Pass—the DP allows families to stay together while living in Singapore. Understanding the EP Application Process, eligibility criteria, and requirements is essential as a requisition to ensure compliance with local regulations in DP applications.

This guide provides a detailed overview of the Dependent Pass, helping families navigate the process with confidence. Whether you’re applying for the first time, renewing an existing pass, or handling unexpected situations like loss or rejection, having the right information can make all the difference. By following the steps outlined in this guide, families can better prepare for their move and focus on settling into life in Singapore.

What is the Dependent Pass?

The Dependent Pass (DP) is a type of visa that allows family members of eligible work pass holders to reside in Singapore. Its primary purpose is to facilitate family unity by enabling spouses and unmarried children under the age of 21 to accompany the main pass holder during their stay in the country.

To qualify for a Dependent Pass, the applicant must be a legally married spouse or an unmarried child under 21 years old of an Employment Pass, Personalised Employment Pass, EntrePass, Tech.Pass, One Pass or S Pass holder. The main pass holder must meet the minimum salary requirements set by the Ministry of Manpower (MOM) for their respective work pass category.

One of the key benefits of the Dependent Pass is that it allows family members to live together in Singapore without the need for separate work authorization. Dependents can seek employment or engage in study opportunities during their stay, providing them with flexibility and opportunities for personal growth. Additionally, the pass grants access to various public services and amenities available to residents, ensuring a comfortable living experience in the country.

Eligibility Criteria for the Dependent Pass

It’s important to know that not everyone who applies for the Dependent Pass will get an approval. The Ministry of Manpower (MOM) sets specific eligibility criteria, which applicants must meet, such as:

Legally Married Spouses

To qualify for a Dependent Pass, the applicant must be the legally married spouse of the main work pass holder. This means MOM considers only legally recognized marriages, while common-law or de facto relationships do not qualify. The marriage must follow the legal registration process in the country where it was solemnized.

Unmarried Children Under 21

Unmarried children under the age of 21, including legally adopted children, are eligible to apply for a Dependent Pass. The age criterion is strictly enforced, and the child must be below 21 years old at the time of application submission. 

MOM strictly enforces the age criterion, requiring the child to be below 21 years old at the time of application submission. The age requirement is determined by the application date, not when the pass is issued or approved.

Required Documentation for Dependent Pass Application

Applying for a Dependent Pass requires careful preparation and submission of the necessary documents. Ensuring all paperwork is in order helps prevent delays and improves the chances of approval. The key documents needed for a successful application include:

• A clear copy of the passport identification page for each dependent.
• Official marriage certificates for spouses and birth certificates for children to prove familial relationships.
• Adoption orders, if applicable, to confirm legal guardianship.
• Vaccination records for children under 12, as required by Singapore’s health regulations.
• If any documents are not in English, a certified English translation must be provided along with the original copy.

Step-by-Step Process for Applying for a Dependent Pass

The application process for a Dependent Pass involves several steps, each playing a crucial role in securing approval. Following these steps carefully can help ensure a smooth and hassle-free experience.

1. Submit the Application Through EP Online: The employer or an accredited employment agent must submit the Dependent Pass application online via the Ministry of Manpower’s (MOM) EP Online portal. The application should include all required documents, and any missing information may result in processing delays or rejections.

2. Employer or Accredited Employment Agent’s Role: Employers or employment agents play a key role in the application process by verifying the submitted information and ensuring compliance with MOM regulations. They will also track the application status and respond to any additional requests from MOM.

3. Pay the Application Fee: Once the application is submitted, the applicable processing fee must be paid promptly to avoid delays in processing.

4. Wait for Processing: After submission and payment, the application will undergo processing by MOM. Processing times can vary, but applicants should be prepared for it to take several weeks, depending on the case’s complexity.

5. Receive In-Principle Approval (IPA): If the application is approved, an In-Principle Approval (IPA) letter will be issued. This letter allows dependents to enter Singapore and complete the remaining formalities within the specified timeframe.

6. Arrive in Singapore and Complete Formalities: Upon arrival, dependents must complete the necessary formalities, such as submitting passport details and scheduling biometric data collection. These steps must be completed within the validity period of the IPA.

7. Collect the Dependent Pass: After all the formalities, MOM issues and delivers the Dependent Pass card to the registered address. Dependents can then legally stay in Singapore under the terms of the pass.

Post-Approval Procedures

After receiving the In-Principle Approval (IPA) and arriving in Singapore, applicants must complete several post-approval procedures. This will finalize the Dependent Pass (DP) issuance:

1. Submission of Passport and contact details: Dependents must submit their passport details, including the passport number, issue and expiry date. They must also submit their immigration pass information, such as the pass number and validity period. The Singapore contact details and residential address are also required.

2. Biometric Data Collection: Dependents are required to provide biometric data, including fingerprints and photographs, at an authorized immigration office. This biometric data is used for identity verification and security purposes.

3. DP Card Delivery: Once all required information and biometric data have been submitted, the Dependent Pass card will be processed and delivered to the registered address in Singapore. The DP card serves as the official immigration document for dependents during their stay in the country.

4. Timeframe: The entire process, from submitting the required documents and biometric data to receiving the DP card, typically takes several weeks. Dependents should plan and ensure they complete all formalities within the validity period of the IPA to avoid any complications.

It’s crucial to follow the instructions provided by the Ministry of Manpower (MOM) and adhere to the specified timelines. This will ensure a smooth and successful completion of the post-approval procedures for the Dependent Pass.

What to Do if MOM Rejects Your Application

If a Dependent Pass application is rejected, it’s important to understand the common reasons behind it. Rejections often occur due to incomplete documentation, failure to meet eligibility criteria, or discrepancies in the provided information. In such cases, applicants can file an appeal within three months of receiving the rejection notice. The appeal should address the reasons for rejection and include additional supporting documents. This includes updated financial statements, proof of relationship, or clarification letters from the employer.

To submit an appeal, the employer or employment agent must use the Ministry of Manpower’s EP Online portal. Ensuring all documents are accurate and complete can improve the chances of approval. Monitor the application status regularly and respond promptly to any requests for further information.

Renewal Process for Dependent Pass

Dependents must renew their pass before expiry to continue staying in Singapore. Apply up to 6 months before expiry.

Submit complete and accurate information to avoid delays or rejection. Comply with any additional MOM requirements. The applications will be evaluated against current eligibility criteria. Renewals are not guaranteed.

Final Thoughts

The Dependent Pass allows family members to reunite and live together in Singapore. Key aspects include understanding eligibility criteria, submitting complete documentation, adhering to timelines, and promptly addressing any concerns or rejections. Seeking professional guidance from experienced immigration consultants can streamline the process. It will also ensure compliance with regulations, and maximize the chances of approval.

Navigating the Dependent Pass application can feel overwhelming, but you don’t have to do it alone. At SIG Global, we provide a seamless and reliable process. We help you stay focused on your professional journey while we handle the complexities. Contact us today and let’s make your move to Singapore a smooth and stress-free experience.