In our Spotlight on the APAC series, we highlight the latest developments across the Asia-Pacific region. In this post, we dive into the recent announcement by the Singapore government regarding the introduction of a new ONE Pass (AI and Tech), which is set to replace the existing Tech Pass from January 2027.
The current Tech Pass was introduced to attract top-tier foreign technology professionals to boost Singapore’s innovation ecosystem. Under the existing framework, applicants are required to meet a minimum monthly salary of S$22,500, among other criteria.
Under the upcoming new ONE Pass (AI and Tech), the qualifying salary threshold will be revised. Applicants must either:
- Earn a fixed monthly salary of at least S$30,000; or
- Earn a base cash salary of at least S$22,500, with vested equity (such as shares or stock options) bringing total monthly remuneration to at least S$30,000.
Eligibility criteria
The requirements for the new pass also include the following:
- Have at least five cumulative years of experience in a founder or C-suite role.
- Have held technical roles (such as Senior Software Engineer) within the past 10 years prior to the date of application.
- Be currently employed, or last employed, in:
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- A technology company;
- A technology division within a company; or
- A technology venture capital firm.
The qualifying company must also meet at least one of the following benchmarks:
- A valuation or market capitalisation of at least US$500 million.
- Annual revenue of at least US$200 million; or
- Assets under management of at least US$500 million.
Alternatively, technology companies that have raised at least US$30 million in funding may also qualify.
While no official quota or target number of approvals has been announced, indications suggest that approvals are expected to remain selective.
For more information on the above or any assistance you require on global immigration matters, please do not hesitate to contact Rachel.ang@magrath.sg or hazimah@magrath.sg.
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