Tech.Pass

The Tech.Pass enables global tech leaders and innovators to come to Singapore to drive groundbreaking advancements.

The Singapore Tech.Pass is a visa program designed to attract top-tier global tech talent to Singapore. Here's a breakdown of key aspects:

Purpose:

It aims to bolster Singapore's tech ecosystem by bringing in experienced tech entrepreneurs, leaders, and experts.
It provides flexibility for pass holders to engage in various activities, contributing to the local tech scene.

Key Features:

Flexibility:
- Holders can start and operate businesses.
- They can work for multiple companies simultaneously.
- They can take on roles as consultants, mentors, or lecturers.
- They can invest in or serve on the boards of Singapore-based companies.
Eligibility:
- Criteria involve demonstrating significant experience and achievements in the tech industry, often including:
  - A high monthly salary.
  - Experience in leading roles within successful tech companies.
  - Experience in developing successful tech products.
Benefits:
- It offers a high degree of freedom in professional pursuits.
- It facilitates networking and collaboration within Singapore's tech community.
- It allows for dependants to join the pass holder in Singapore.

Important Considerations:

There are specific eligibility requirements that must be met.
The application process involves submitting detailed documentation.
It is important to keep up to date with the regulations, as they can change.

Key Features

The Singapore Tech.Pass is designed to attract top-tier tech talent, and it comes with several key features that set it apart from other work passes. Here's a breakdown:

Core Features:

Flexibility in Activities:
- Tech.Pass holders can simultaneously:
  - Start and run their own tech companies.
  - Work for multiple Singapore-based tech companies.
  - Serve as consultants or mentors.
  - Invest in or become directors of Singapore-based companies.
  - Lecture in local institutions.
Individualized Pass:
- It's an individualized pass, meaning it's granted to the individual, not tied to a specific employer. This provides greater freedom and mobility.
Attracting Top Talent:
- The eligibility criteria are designed to attract highly accomplished individuals, including:
  - Experienced tech entrepreneurs.
  - Tech leaders.
  - Technical experts.
Enhancing the Tech Ecosystem:
- The pass aims to contribute to Singapore's vibrant tech ecosystem by bringing in expertise, innovation, and investment.
Dependant's Passes:
- Tech.Pass holders are able to sponsor stay for spouse, children, and in some cases parents in Singapore.
Renewal:
- The pass is valid for two years, and pass holders can apply for renewal.

In essence, the Tech.Pass offers a high degree of flexibility and autonomy, allowing top tech professionals to contribute to Singapore's tech scene in various ways.

Eligibility Criteria

To qualify for Singapore's Tech.Pass, applicants must meet specific criteria that demonstrate their expertise and experience in the tech industry. Here's a breakdown of the key eligibility requirements:

Core Eligibility Criteria:

Salary:
- Applicants must have earned a minimum fixed monthly salary of S$22,500 (or its equivalent in a foreign currency) in the preceding year.
Experience:
- Applicants must possess at least five cumulative years of experience in a leading role within a tech company that meets one of the following criteria:
  - The company has a valuation or market capitalization of at least US$500 million.
  - The company has raised at least US$30 million in funding.
- OR
- Applicants must have at least five cumulative years of experience in a leading role in the development of a tech product that meets one of the following criteria:
  - The product has at least 100,000 monthly active users.
  - The product generates at least US$100 million in annual revenue.

Important Notes:

The Singapore Economic Development Board (EDB) evaluates applications thoroughly, considering the applicant's overall track record and potential contributions to Singapore's tech ecosystem.
It's crucial to provide comprehensive documentation to support your application.

Apply for a Tech.Pass

Let's outline the key steps and points to remember when applying for the Singapore Tech.Pass. It's crucial to rely on official sources, primarily the Singapore Economic Development Board (EDB) website.

Here's a breakdown of the application process:

1. Verify Eligibility:

Thoroughly check the EDB's official website for the latest eligibility criteria. This includes:
- Salary requirements.
- Experience in leading roles within tech companies or product development.
- Specific criteria related to company valuation, funding, user numbers, or revenue.

2. Gather Required Documents:

Prepare all necessary documentation, which typically includes:
- Proof of your past salary (payslips, tax documents).
- Evidence of your experience (employment records, company information).
- Documents supporting company valuations, funding, user metrics, or revenue.
- A valid passport.
- Completed application forms.
- Any other supporting documents that may be required.

3. Application Submission:

Download and complete the Tech.Pass application form from the official EDB website.
Ensure you complete the application form accurately.
Pay the application fee.
Submit the completed application form and all supporting documents through the designated online portal.

4. Application Processing:

The EDB will review your application.
Be prepared for potential requests for additional information.
Processing times can vary, so allow sufficient time.

5. Application Outcome and Pass Issuance:

You will be notified of the application outcome.
If approved, you will receive an In-Principle Approval (IPA) letter.
Follow the instructions provided to obtain your Tech.Pass.

Key Points:

Official Sources: Always refer to the official EDB website for information.
Accuracy: Ensure all information provided is accurate and complete.
Documentation: Provide clear and comprehensive documentation.

Processing Times

Here's what you should know about Tech.Pass processing times:

General Processing Time:
- It generally takes around 8 weeks to process Tech.Pass applications, provided all required documents are in order.
- However, it's important to note that processing times can vary.
- If additional information is needed, the processing time may be extended.
Factors Affecting Processing Time:
- Completeness and accuracy of your application.
- The complexity of your supporting documents.
- The volume of applications being processed.
Important Considerations:
- It's crucial to submit a complete and accurate application to minimize delays.
- Be prepared to provide any additional information requested by the EDB.

In summary, while the typical processing time is around 8 weeks, it's wise to allow for potential delays.

Application Fee

Here's a breakdown of the Tech.Pass application fees:

Application Fee:
- There is an application fee of S$105. This fee is for each application.
- It's important to note that this application fee is non-refundable.
Pass Issuance Fee:
- If your application is successful, there's a separate fee for the issuance of the Tech.Pass, which is S$225 for each pass.
Multiple Journey Visa:
- If applicable, there may be a fee of S$30 for each Multiple Journey Visa.

Key points to remember:

Ensure you understand the payment instructions provided during the application process.

Where to Find Official Information:

Singapore Economic Development Board (EDB):
- Official information regarding the Tech.Pass can be found on the Singapore Economic Development Board (EDB) website. This is the definitive source for detailed information, including eligibility criteria, application procedures, and updates.

Frequently Asked Questions

About Tech.Pass

When considering the Singapore Tech.Pass, it's natural to have questions. Here's a summary of frequently asked questions:

Key FAQ Points:

What is the Tech.Pass?
- It's a visa designed to attract top-tier global tech talent to Singapore, offering flexibility for entrepreneurs, leaders, and experts to contribute to the local tech ecosystem.
Who is eligible for the Tech.Pass?
- Eligibility involves meeting specific criteria related to salary, experience in leading roles within successful tech companies, or experience in developing successful tech products.
What are the key benefits of the Tech.Pass?
- It provides flexibility to start and operate businesses, work for multiple companies, serve as consultants or mentors, and invest in Singapore-based companies.
What are the main eligibility criteria?
- Key criteria revolve around:
  - A high fixed monthly salary.
  - Experience in leadership roles within significant tech companies.
  - Experience in developing widely used or highly profitable tech products.
How long is the Tech.Pass valid?
- The Tech.Pass is valid for two years, with the possibility of a one-time renewal.
Where can I find the most accurate and up-to-date information?
- The official Singapore Economic Development Board (EDB) website is the primary source for all Tech.Pass information.
What is the difference between the Tech.Pass and the Employment Pass (EP)?
- The Tech.Pass is designed for very high level tech professionals, and provides much more flexability than the EP. The EP is designed for foreign professionals, managers, and executives who have job offers in Singapore.

How Bestar can Help

Tech.Pass - Singapore EDB

Navigating Singapore's immigration processes, particularly for specialized passes like the Tech.Pass, can be complex. This is where the expertise of Bestar can be invaluable. Here's how we can assist:

Key Ways Bestar Can Help:

Expert Guidance on Eligibility:
- We possess in-depth knowledge of the Tech.Pass eligibility criteria and can assess your profile to determine your suitability.
- We can provide personalized advice on how to strengthen your application.
Document Preparation and Review:
- Bestar is experienced in compiling and reviewing the necessary documentation, ensuring accuracy and completeness.
- We can help you gather and organize the required evidence to support your claims.
Application Process Management:
- We can guide you through the entire application process, from form completion to submission.
- We can handle communication with the relevant authorities, saving you time and effort.
Staying Up-to-Date with Regulations:
- Immigration policies and regulations can change. Bestar stays informed of these changes, ensuring your application complies with the latest requirements.
Minimizing Errors and Delays:
- By ensuring accuracy and completeness, we can help minimize the risk of errors and delays in your application.
Handling Complex Cases:
- If your case is complex or involves unique circumstances, we can provide expert advice and representation.
Assistance with Appeals:
- If your application is rejected, we can assist with the appeal process.
Providing peace of mind:
- Knowing an expert is handling the process can reduce the stress of applying.