Singapore Ramps‑Up Global Talent Competition

2026-09-03

Singapore has announced the launch of its brand‑new ONE Pass (AI and Tech) in January 2027, which will replace the Tech‑Pass introduced back in 2021.

Tailored for artificial‑intelligence and technology professionals, this new scheme features a far‑reaching adjustment: equity holdings may be counted towards the minimum monthly‑salary requirement of S$30,000.

Headhunters point out that top‑tier tech talent, such as AI scientists, chief‑technology officers and core startup team‑members, are usually compensated through a mix of base pay and equity. At unicorn firms and large‑scale tech enterprises in China and the United States, equity often constitutes a major component of total remuneration.

By revising the salary‑threshold calculation rules, Singapore is now truly positioned to compete for world‑class talent. Equity represents deep‑seated commitment between professionals and their businesses. Allowing equity to be recognised sends a clear signal: Singapore aims to attract innovators ready to scale‑up long‑term ventures locally, rather than highly‑paid short‑term employees.

Singapore’s Roadmap for Attracting High‑Calibre International Talent

1992

The Employment Pass (EP) was launched to recruit overseas professionals and executives. Valid for two years, it carries no quota limits.

After more than 30 years of refinement, the EP framework has matured well. Every year, many EP‑holders successfully apply for Singapore Permanent Residence. As of June 2025, there were around 201,200 active Employment Pass holders.

Current EP assessments are based on salary benchmarks and the COMPASS framework, aligned with local PMET employment standards.

2020

The Economic Development Board rolled‑out the Tech‑Pass to draw elite tech talent and strengthen Singapore’s regional tech ecosystem. Initially capped at 500 approvals, each pass was valid for two years.

The programme successfully brought‑in specialists from across Asia‑Pacific, Europe and North‑America, covering AI, cybersecurity, edtech, fintech and SaaS sectors. In September 2022, Deputy‑Prime‑Minister Gan Kim‑Yong revealed in a written parliamentary reply that only 250 Tech‑Pass applications had been approved.

Tech‑Pass eligibility is evaluated according to salary, employer profile and job‑role criteria.

2023

The Overseas Networks & Expertise Pass (ONE Pass) was introduced for top‑tier professionals in business, arts, culture, sports, technology, academia and research. With no application quota, ONE Pass can be issued for up to five years. More than 8,000 ONE‑Pass holders were recorded as of June 2025.

Eligibility for the standard ONEPass is determined by salary requirements and the scale of the applicant’s employing organisation.

2027

Singapore will launch ONE Pass (AI and Tech), replacing the legacy Tech‑Pass. The new pathway introduces flexible remuneration rules permitting equity to contribute toward the monthly‑income benchmark, with its recruitment focus sharply targeted at AI and technology specialists.

Its long‑term impact remains to be seen.

As a small‑sized nation, Singapore has maintained its influential standing within the global economy largely through its consistent ability to seize opportunities and attract talent. We look forward to witnessing its next chapter of success.

Professional Services from Singapore Skylilne Business

Founded in 2013, Singapore Skyline Business is a Ministry‑of‑Manpower‑registered consultancy with extensive hands‑on experience in Singapore company‑registration and employment‑pass applications.

Our experienced team provides end‑to‑end services including Entrepreneur Pass, EP, SP, WP, Self‑Employed EP, DP, LTVP, company incorporation, Permanent‑Residence and Citizenship applications.

Should you require consultation or assistance, please get in touch with our team.

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