Frequently Asked Question
Do you have questions about working, living, or setting up a business in Singapore as an expat?
Our FAQ covers everything from visas and residency to company incorporation and taxation. Find the answers you need, all in one place.
Disclaimer: This FAQ provides general guidance—if you require tailored legal advice, please contact our team at Legal Expat SG @ info@legalexpat.sg.
Work Pass & Employment
Yes, DP holders can start a business in Singapore but must apply for a Letter of Consent (LOC) if they meet one of these criteria:
- Sole proprietor of an ACRA-registered business,
- Partner in an ACRA-registered business, or
- Director with at least 30% shareholding in a Singapore-registered company.
Yes, you can incorporate a company, but you cannot work for it unless you apply for an EntrePass or another EP sponsored by your newly incorporated company.
Review salary, benefits, termination clauses, probation terms, non-compete restrictions, work pass validity, and dispute resolution mechanisms before signing. It is sometimes worth engaging legal assistance to be sure all your rights are protected.
Depending on the salary threshold that you fall into, you may be eligible for an Employment Pass (EP), alternatively, your employer may apply for an S Pass, which is for mid-level skilled workers meeting the minimum salary and eligibility criteria set by MOM.
Yes, but they must secure a job and have their employer apply for a Work Permit, S Pass, or Employment Pass. Some LTVP holders (e.g., spouses of EP holders) may qualify for an LOC under specific conditions.
No, an EP is tied to a single employer. If you wish to take up additional work, your employer must apply for an exemption from MOM.
Your employer must cancel your work pass within one week of termination. You’ll typically receive a 30-day Short-Term Visit Pass to arrange your departure or find a new employer.
Technically, yes, if you are not performing work that contributes to the Singapore economy. However, this is a grey area, and you should seek legal advice for clarity on your specific circumstances.
In 2025, the minimum salary for an EP is S$5,600 (S$6,200 for financial services). The minimum for an S Pass is S$3,150 (S$3,650 for financial services).
Yes, but you must comply with tax laws and may need to register as a business entity, depending on the nature of your work.
Not necessarily. The enforceability of non-compete clauses depends on reasonableness, scope, and duration. Tailored legal advice for specific questions is recommended.
Severance pay is not mandatory in Singapore unless specified in your contract or company policy.
Your employer must apply for an EP or S Pass while you are in Singapore. If approved, you can collect the work pass without leaving the country.
Residency & Family Matters
You may apply for an Employment Pass, S Pass, or Student Pass or secure an LTVP if you have family ties in Singapore.
Yes, your spouse can apply for a Dependent Pass (DP) or LTVP, and children can apply for a DP if they are under 21.
You can apply for PR through the Professional, Technical Personnel & Skilled Workers (PTS) scheme after working in Singapore for at least six months.
It may improve your PR chances under the Global Investor Programme (GIP) if your company contributes significantly to Singapore’s economy.
Typically 30 days on a Short-Term Visit Pass after your work pass is cancelled.
If your residency is tied to your spouse’s work pass, your DP or LTVP will be revoked upon finalizing the divorce.
Yes, having a Singapore-compliant will ensures your assets are distributed as per your intentions.
Business & Incorporation
Yes, foreigners can fully own and operate businesses in Singapore but must appoint a local director.
The EntrePass is available for qualifying entrepreneurs, while an EP can be obtained if you incorporate a company and hire yourself.
An EP is for employees, including business owners, while an EntrePass is for startup founders meeting specific innovation and investment criteria.
Yes, but EP holders must inform MOM and cannot be employed by the company unless they receive special permission from MOM. DP holders require an LOC.
No, foreigners must register a business entity or secure an EP/EntrePass to operate legally.
Taxation & Compliance
No, CPF contributions are only required for Singapore Citizens and PRs.
Corporate tax applies to Singapore-registered companies, while personal income tax applies to earnings from business activities.
Singapore has Avoidance of Double Taxation Agreements (DTAs) with various countries, allowing tax relief through exemptions or credits.
Tax residents (staying 183+ days/year) pay progressive rates from 0% to 24%. Non-residents pay a flat 15% or 24% on certain income types.
Tax residents may claim personal reliefs such as spouse/child relief, whereas non-residents have limited deductions.
Book your consultation
Book your legal consultation online with English-speaking lawyers and immigration specialists! We are located within the law firm KGP Legal on the 10 Anson Road #03-27 International Plaza Singapore 079903. Our consultation can be made on Zoom or in our Office for a competitive fee of SGD 500 excl GST.
