Singapore is set to unveil a new visa pathway designed to attract leading global professionals in the fields of artificial intelligence and advanced technology.
Beginning on January 1, 2027, the government will launch the ONE Pass (AI and Tech), a specialised visa for seasoned talent in disciplines such as artificial intelligence, advanced software engineering, and quantum computing.
This new pathway will supersede the current Tech.Pass, which was introduced in 2021, and will be incorporated into the wider Overseas Networks and Expertise (ONE) Pass framework.
ONE Pass Singapore visa
The Overseas Networks and Expertise Pass (ONE Pass) is a unique work visa established by Singapore to draw in top global professionals and industry leaders.
In contrast to conventional work visas, the ONE Pass permits highly skilled individuals to reside and work in Singapore without being restricted to a single employer, thus providing enhanced flexibility.
The visa is aimed at individuals with remarkable achievements or high salaries across diverse fields.
Generally, applicants must earn a minimum of SGD 30,000 per month or exhibit exceptional professional skills.
The initiative seeks to attract global tech leaders who can enhance Singapore’s innovation ecosystem.
Visa validity
The new visa validity includes two types, Tech.Pass which is valid for two years and provides one renewal for two years and ONE Pass (AI and Tech) which is valid for five years and is renewable for five more years.
Who can apply?
Applicants are required to be affiliated with a company or investment firm that is focused on technology.
To qualify, candidates must either be currently employed or have most recently been employed at one of the following: technology company, technology division within a company or a venture capital firm that specialises in technology.
Furthermore, the company must fulfill at least one of the following criteria:
- Candidates are expected to display exemplary leadership or technical expertise.
- Applicants should possess a minimum of five years of experience within the last 10 years in positions such as founder or co-founder, C-suite leadership (e.g., CEO, CTO), or senior technical roles like senior software engineer.
Additionally, applicants must satisfy a minimum income requirement. The standard expectation is a monthly income of SGD 30,000 for a minimum of 12 consecutive months prior to application.
Nevertheless, the AI and Tech track provides some flexibility, a guaranteed monthly salary of no less than SGD 22,500 and additional compensation such as stock options or company shares (subject to evaluation)
This framework mirrors compensation structures that are prevalent in the technology sector.
