Singapore, known for its thriving business ecosystem and supportive government policies, has become a popular destination for entrepreneurs looking to establish their own ventures. If you're considering starting a business in Singapore and obtaining a work pass, you have two options to choose from: Employment Pass (EP) for self-employment and EntrePass for entrepreneurship. In this blog post, we'll delve into the details of these two options and explore their key differences.


01 / Self-Employed Employment Pass

Self-Employed Employment Pass allows you to establish an employer-employee relationship with your own company and apply for an Employment Pass. The outcome of your application is not affected by whether or not you hold shares in the company. To secure an self-employment EP, the following steps are involved:

1. Local Partnership: You would need to have a local director to proceed with your application.
2. Company Registration: Register your company and ensure you have a local office address.
3. Local Employee Hiring: Operate your company for a few months and hire local employees before applying.
4. Educational Advantage: Holding a bachelor's degree or higher education qualification can be advantageous during the application process.


02 / EntrePass

The EntrePass is a work pass designed specifically for entrepreneurs who intend to start their own businesses in Singapore. Unlike the EP, the EntrePass is not based on an employer-employee relationship but focuses on the individual as the owner of the company. Here's what you need to know about the EntrePass:

1. Local Director: Having or not having a local director is acceptable for the EntrePass application.
2. Flexible Company Registration: You can either apply for the EntrePass before registering the company (with the company registration required within 6 months if approved) or register the company first and apply within the first 6 months of its establishment.
3. Sole Shareholder: You can hold 100% of the shares in the company and be the sole shareholder.
4. No Educational Restrictions: Unlike the EP, the EntrePass does not have specific educational requirements.

By assessing your business goals and personal circumstances, you can choose the most suitable option that aligns with your aspirations.

Remember, whether you opt for the EP or the EntrePass, Singapore offers a vibrant business environment with extensive support for startups. Take advantage of the resources, networks, and opportunities available, and turn your entrepreneurial dreams into reality in the Lion City.

Established in 2011 and registered with the Ministry of Manpower, Skyline Business Consulting Pte. Ltd. is your trusted partner for work pass applications. Our professional team specializes in helping you secure EntrePass, S Pass (SP), Work Permit (WP), Self-Employed EP, Dependent's Pass (DP), Long Term Visit Pass (LTVP), and Permanent Residency (PR). We also provide services such as market planning, bank account opening, company annual audits, and trademark registration. With our comprehensive and efficient approach, we offer end-to-end solutions to make your journey seamless and worry-free. Contact us now to experience a smooth application process!