What is Self-Employed EP
The Singapore Self-Employed EP (Employment Pass) is a work visa that allows business owners to apply for an EP under their own Singapore-registered company — without needing a local employer as sponsor.
This is one of the most accessible and cost-effective pathways for Chinese entrepreneurs to legally live and work in Singapore. After holding an EP, eligible holders can apply for Dependant's Passes for spouses and children, and apply for Permanent Residence (PR) after 2 years.
Who Is It For
• Chinese entrepreneurs, shareholders, or directors looking to expand business into Singapore
• Families seeking quality education for children in Singapore while planning permanent residency
• Entrepreneurs looking for offshore asset planning, tax optimization, and global operations
• Existing Singapore pass holders looking to upgrade status through the self-employment route
Eligibility Requirements
Education | Bachelor's degree or above (diploma accepted with strong experience). Degree must be verifiable via China Academic Degrees. |
Salary | Minimum S$5,600/month (2025 standard); higher thresholds apply to older applicants. |
COMPASS Score | Minimum 40 points out of 110. Dimensions: salary, education, company diversity, local workforce ratio. |
Company | Singapore-registered private limited company (Pte. Ltd.) with ≥30% shareholding; local director and registered address required. |
Operations | Company must demonstrate substantive business activity. Hiring local employees boosts COMPASS score and PR prospects. |
Application Process
STEP 01 | Free Assessment — Submit your profile for COMPASS score estimation and feasibility review. |
STEP 02 | Company Registration — We help register your Singapore Pte. Ltd. (1–3 business days). |
STEP 03 | Corporate Account — Assist in opening a digital bank account and setting up Corppass. |
STEP 04 | Document Submission — Compile full application package and submit to MOM (results within 7 business days). |
STEP 05 | Approval & Entry — Once IPA is issued, enter Singapore within 6 months to complete biometrics and card issuance. |
STEP 06 | Dependant's Pass — With monthly salary ≥ S$6,200, apply DP for spouse and children. |
STEP 07 | Renewal PR Planning — Ongoing support for company operations, EP renewal, and PR application roadmap. |
3 Key Advantages
✅ No Employer Sponsor Required | Incorporate your own company, pay yourself, and apply EP under your own name — full control. |
✅ Family Benefits | Salary ≥ S$6,200: bring spouse and children (DP). Salary ≥ S$12,000: parents eligible for LTVP. |
✅ Direct Path to PR | After 2 years of stable EP operations, you are eligible to apply for Singapore Permanent Residence. |