Singapore EntrePass: Entrepreneur Visa for Innovators and Startups

Meta Description

The Singapore EntrePass allows foreign entrepreneurs, innovators, and investors to start and run businesses in Singapore. Learn requirements, benefits, and the path to permanent residency and citizenship.

Introduction

Singapore is one of Asia’s leading hubs for innovation, startups, and global investment. To attract international talent, the government introduced the EntrePass—a visa designed for entrepreneurs, innovators, and investors who want to establish or grow a business in Singapore.

Unlike traditional investor visas, EntrePass does not require a fixed minimum investment. Instead, it evaluates applicants based on entrepreneurial achievements, funding sources, intellectual property, and contribution to Singapore’s economy. This makes it a unique pathway for early-stage founders and high-potential innovators.

Program at a Glance

Type: Active Investor & Entrepreneur Visa
Time to Permanent Residency (PR): Minimum 5 years
Time to Citizenship: Minimum 10 years (discretionary)
Minimum Investment: No fixed requirement (case-by-case)
Physical Presence Requirement: Flexible, based on business operations
Application Processing Time: 2–3 months
Settlement Rights: Right to live and operate a business in Singapore
Visa-Free Travel: Access to Singapore

How to Qualify

General Eligibility Categories

As an Investor Show commitment to investing a substantial amount of capital into a Singapore company. No fixed minimum amount is published, but applicants are expected to demonstrate meaningful financial backing.
As an Innovator Must hold recognized intellectual property (IP), OR have research collaboration with a Singapore Institute of Higher Learning (IHL) or local research institute, OR show extraordinary achievements in science, technology, or other areas of recognized expertise.
As an Entrepreneur Must have secured at least S$100,000 in funding from a government-approved venture capital firm or angel investor, OR be an incubatee at a government-recognized incubator or accelerator, OR have a strong entrepreneurial track record and business network.

Benefits of EntrePass

Pathway to Citizenship – although longer than investment programs, EntrePass leads to PR and eventually citizenship.
No Fixed Minimum Investment – flexibility makes it accessible to early-stage founders.
Attractive Tax System – Singapore has no capital gains tax and low corporate tax rates.
Global Business Hub – strong access to Asian and international markets.
English as Official Language – ease of business operations and integration.
Safe and Stable – world-class infrastructure, healthcare, and education.

Path to Citizenship

To qualify for Singapore citizenship, applicants must:

Be a Permanent Resident (PR) for at least 2 years, and aged 21+, OR
Be a PR for at least 2 years and married to a Singapore citizen, OR
Have resided in Singapore for 10 of the past 12 years.

Key Points:

Citizenship approval is fully discretionary by the Immigration & Checkpoints Authority (ICA).
Singapore does not allow dual nationality; applicants must renounce their original citizenship.
Male children (18–50 years old) who become PRs or citizens are subject to mandatory National Service.

Program Authority

Administered by: Ministry of Manpower (MOM)
Legal Basis: Employment of Foreign Manpower Act (Chapter 91A) & Work Passes Regulations 2012

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: How long does it take to get an EntrePass?
A: Typically 2–3 months from submission to approval.

Q2: Is there a minimum investment required?
A: No. Unlike the Global Investor Programme, EntrePass has no fixed investment threshold. Instead, eligibility is based on innovation, business potential, and funding sources.

Q3: Can my family join me in Singapore under EntrePass?
A: Yes, dependants (spouse and children) can join once the EntrePass holder meets certain business spending and local hiring requirements.

Q4: Does EntrePass guarantee PR or citizenship?
A: No, approvals are discretionary and require fulfilling residency, business performance, and integration criteria.

User Comments

Alex Tan – Startup Founder

I applied via the incubator route. The process was detailed but straightforward once my accelerator confirmed support.

Maria L. – Angel Investor

The flexibility is great. Unlike other visas, Singapore cares about innovation, not just throwing money in.

Kenji – Biotech Researcher

My collaboration with a Singapore university was accepted as qualifying criteria. The review process was strict but fair.

Sophia – Global Entrepreneur

EntrePass gave me the chance to relocate my company HQ to Singapore. Taxes and infrastructure are very attractive.

Editor’s Note

EntrePass is ideal for entrepreneurs with innovative ideas or venture backing who want to access Singapore’s thriving ecosystem. Unlike the Global Investor Programme, it is not aimed at ultra-high-net-worth individuals but at founders and innovators with growth potential.

However, applicants must be realistic: approval is selective and requires strong supporting documentation. EntrePass works best as a stepping stone towards PR and eventual citizenship, rather than a quick residency solution.

Singapore Global Investor Programme (GIP)

Singapore EntrePass: Entrepreneur Visa for Innovators and Startups