Category: Case Studies

Inquiry Date: October 2024

Client Background

A family who had been living and working in Singapore for several years contacted us after receiving a rejection on their third Permanent Residency (PR) application. Both parents were professionals with stable employment, and their child was attending preschool at the time of application.

The Problem or Challenge

This was their third attempt at PR. Although they had made consistent efforts to settle in Singapore, the rejection left them unsure whether there was any value in appealing. However, during the application processing period, their child had been successfully admitted to a local school. This new development had not been captured in their original submission, and they wanted to understand whether it could support a fresh appeal.

Our Approach

After reviewing their profile and previous submissions, we advised that an appeal was worth pursuing. Their case showed meaningful progress in several areas that reflected deeper integration in Singapore. Although their earlier applications were complete, some details about their local involvement and professional growth had not been clearly presented.

We worked with them to prepare a concise, well-structured appeal that focused on tangible progress — including their child’s enrolment in a local school, stronger professional contribution to Singapore’s economy, and active participation in community life. Many applicants overlook small yet crucial Singapore PR eligibility requirements that influence how ICA assesses long-term commitment. By presenting these updates clearly and connecting them to the family’s long-term plans in Singapore, we were able to demonstrate a strong and consistent pattern of contribution and intent, leading to a positive outcome.

The Outcome

✅ Appeal submitted in October 2024

✅ PR application approved within six months

✅ Entire family received Singapore PR in April 2025

What This Case Shows

Even after multiple rejections, an appeal can succeed when there are meaningful updates that reflect long-term commitment, family planning, and continuity in employment and contribution. The key lies in presenting these updates clearly and strategically.

Want To Appeal Your PR Application?

If your PR application has been rejected and you are considering an appeal, book a free 20-minute consultation. We will review your case, help you understand your options and next steps, and show you how to strengthen your profile based on the key Singapore PR application guidelines.

Explore Next:

• • Singapore PR Requirements: Key Factors ICA Considers
• • Step-by-Step Guide to Applying for Singapore PR

Inquiry Date: March 2025

Client Background

We were approached by a newly incorporated company in early 2025 seeking to hire an Indonesian national as a Director. The individual was considered key to the business, and the company was eager to have him start operations in Singapore as soon as possible.

The Problem or Challenge

As the company was newly established and had limited operational documents and early-stage funding, the initial Employment Pass (EP) application was subject to increased scrutiny. This was compounded by additional vetting procedures sometimes required for applicants of certain nationalities.

The first application was rejected. While disappointing, it was not unexpected given the early-stage nature of the company and the incomplete documentation at the time.

 Our Approach

We advised the company early on about the potential roadblocks and timeline. After the initial rejection, we continued to work closely with both the employer and the applicant to strengthen the case.

• We filed the first employment pass appeal with clarified job scope and improved justification, but it was unsuccessful.
  
• For the second appeal, we restructured the entire submission:
  • A clearer business model
    
  • Updated financial plans and supporting documents
    
  • Stronger emphasis on the applicant’s role as essential to operations
    

We provided detailed guidance at every step to ensure the appeal aligned with MOM’s assessment standards.

The Outcome

The second employment pass appeal was approved. The EP was issued the following month, and the company is now able to proceed with its business activities with the key individual in place. Both the employer and the applicant expressed appreciation for the continued support and strategic direction.

What This Case Shows

Hiring a foreign director through a newly formed company is possible — but it requires strategic planning, patience, and a willingness to respond to MOM’s concerns with clarity and substance. Even if the first attempt fails, a well-prepared second appeal can succeed when supported by a solid framework and realistic documentation.

For another real-life scenario involving a new company director, read our case study on Employment Pass Eligibility Check for Business Owner Approved in Under Two Weeks.

Want to Appeal a rejected EP Application?

If your Employment Pass application has been rejected or you are a new company planning to hire a foreign director, we can help you position the application or employment pass appeal strategically. Book a free 20-minute consultation to understand your options and next steps.

We often work with families who face uncertainty after a PR rejection in Singapore. The following case studies highlight how two very different families successfully turned their rejections into approvals through strategic reframing and careful preparation.

Case Study 10: How We Got A Rejected PR Application Approved

Inquiry Date: January 2025

Client Background

A professional couple in their 40s had been living in Singapore with their children for several years. One parent was employed in a full-time role, while the other focused on caregiving. Their children were studying in local schools, and the family had built meaningful ties to Singapore over time.

The Problem or Challenge

Their previous PR application had been rejected, leaving them unsure whether it was due to salary levels, nationality, or how the family’s long-term plans were framed.

Our Approach

They reached out via WhatsApp in late January after the rejection. We reviewed their previous application and helped them prepare a stronger, more strategic case. This included:

• Framing the application around family stability and long-term commitment to Singapore
  
• Emphasising consistent employment, community ties, and the children’s education
  
• Strengthening their personal statement with a clear, values-based narrative
  
• Presenting a well-documented household structure and financial stability, even in a single-income household

The Outcome

Their PR application was resubmitted in early February. After around six months, the entire family was approved for PR — giving them the long-term security they had hoped for.

What This Case Shows

This case shows that even in single-income families, a well-positioned PR application can succeed. Clear intention, stability, and a thoughtful presentation often matter more than technical checkboxes alone.

Case Study 11: How We Helped a Former PR Reapply and Get Approved

Inquiry Date: December 2024

Client Background

In December 2024, we assisted a former PR who had returned to Singapore after a marriage breakdown. She had tried to reapply for PR multiple times without success.

The Problem or Challenge

Reapplying for PR after a lapse is often complex. The Immigration and Checkpoints Authority (ICA) considers factors such as:

• The reason the person left Singapore
• The length of time they were away
• Their reintegration plans and current support system
• Whether there is a clear intention to contribute and remain long term

Without a clear explanation or appropriate documentation, these applications are often rejected or delayed.

Our Approach

For the December 2024 case, we stepped in to:

• Reframe the application completely
• Guide the family in compiling the right supporting materials
• Position the application carefully to address ICA’s concerns

The result was a successful reinstatement of her PR status — giving her a fresh start in Singapore.

Most recently, in July 2025, we received another enquiry involving a daughter who had lost her PR after many years abroad. Her family wanted to explore how she could remain in Singapore permanently, despite certain complications. We prepared a personalised roadmap, including guidance on interim passes, supporting documents, and timing. Her case is now underway.

The Outcome

• December 2024 case: PR successfully reinstated after multiple failed attempts.
• July 2025 case: A clear roadmap in place, with the application carefully structured for long-term success.

What These Case Show

Returning to Singapore after a long absence is possible, but the application must be backed by a clear story and strong documentation. ICA looks for more than just eligibility on paper. They want to understand why the person left, why they wish to return, and how they plan to contribute to Singapore in the long term.

Want to apply for PR again?

If your family has had a PR rejection or you are unsure how to present your case, book a free 20-minute consultation with us. We will guide you through what ICA looks for and how to prepare your strongest application.

Inquiry Date: July 2025

Client Background

We regularly receive enquiries from Dependant Pass holders seeking clarity on how to begin working in Singapore. Most are experienced professionals who are between jobs or looking for flexible ways to re-enter the workforce. Our most recent enquiries came in July 2025, primarily through WhatsApp and LinkedIn, reflecting a growing interest in the Letter of Consent (LOC) pathway as a legal option.

Several of these individuals were referred by friends or had come across our content online. They reached out to understand whether it was possible to start working under their own name, and how to do so in full compliance with Singapore’s immigration framework.

The Problem or Challenge

With rising Employment Pass salary thresholds, many Dependant Pass holders are finding it difficult to secure full-time employment. At the same time, most are unaware that they cannot begin work without formal approval from the Ministry of Manpower (MOM). This creates a legal and practical gap — they are ready and willing to work, but unsure of how to do so within the rules.

Many are not aware that they can register a sole proprietorship and apply for a Letter of Consent tied to that business. This pathway allows them to provide services legally while holding a Dependant Pass.

Our Approach

We guided each client through:

• Registering a sole proprietorship under their own name
  
• Structuring their business in a way that aligns with their skills and intended service
  
• Preparing and submitting a Letter of Consent application to MOM
  
• Understanding operational responsibilities, such as invoicing, tax declarations, and general compliance

We also explained how this approach can act as a stepping stone, helping them gain local experience and visibility while remaining fully compliant with MOM regulations.

The Outcome

Two clients who reached out via WhatsApp in early July had their LOCs approved around mid-July 2025. They are now operating legally under their sole proprietorships and are able to begin providing services and engaging clients. Other enquiries from the same period are currently in progress.

What This Case Shows

The LOC through sole proprietorship offers a viable and empowering alternative for Dependant Pass holders who are unable to secure Employment Pass roles. With proper setup and guidance, it allows individuals to remain active, earn income, and build their professional footprint in Singapore — all within the legal framework.

Want to apply for an LOC?

If you are on a Dependant Pass and would like to begin working legally in Singapore, we can help. Book a 20-minute consultation to understand your options and learn how to navigate the LOC process with confidence.

Inquiry Date: March 2025

Client Background

We were contacted via WhatsApp by a former Employment Pass holder who had been made redundant and was unsure of his next steps. Married to a Singaporean citizen, he had been travelling in and out of the country on a Short-Term Visit Pass (STVP) while trying to find new job opportunities.

Although a few potential employers had shown interest, he was unsure whether he could legally work or whether he would qualify for a Dependant Pass or other options, as his spouse was self-employed and previously did not meet the tax requirements for sponsorship.

The Challenge

Frequent travel on an STVP can carry risks, including eventual refusal of entry. At the same time, the client was keen to return to work in Singapore but did not have clarity on the legal pathways available to him. The uncertainty around both immigration status and employment eligibility made planning difficult.

Our Approach

We advised him that he could:

• Apply for a Long-Term Visit Pass (LTVP) sponsored by his spouse
  
• Simultaneously request a Pre-Approved Letter of Consent (PLOC), which would allow him to work for any company without needing a separate work pass
  

We also explained the importance of moving away from repeated short-term entries to a more stable, compliant pathway. With clear instructions and guidance on the application process, he proceeded immediately.

The Outcome

His LTVP and PLOC were both approved within a matter of weeks. He now has the flexibility to live and work in Singapore without ongoing immigration uncertainty — and potential employers can hire him without needing to go through the Employment Pass process.

What This Case Shows

Many people are unaware that the LTVP and PLOC route is available for foreign spouses of Singaporeans. With the right guidance and timing, it can offer a clear, flexible, and legally sound pathway — especially after redundancy or while between jobs.

Want to apply for LTVP for your spouse?

If you are married to a Singaporean and are unsure about your work or stay options, we can help. Book a free 20-minute consultation to understand your eligibility and plan your next steps confidently.

Inquiry Date: January 2025

Client Background

A Singaporean woman reached out to us via WhatsApp shortly after returning to Singapore with her newly married husband. He was self-employed overseas, and she had not held stable employment in Singapore prior to their return. They were applying for his Long-Term Visit Pass (LTVP), but the application was rejected.

The Challenge With Their LTVP Application

The rejection was likely due to two main concerns:

• The short duration of their marriage
• The couple’s perceived financial instability (her lack of local employment, and his self-employment abroad)

ICA is known to assess both financial support and long-term commitment and in this case, both were harder to prove on paper.

Our Approach To Their LTVP Appeal

We assisted with the LTVP appeal by:

• Clearly presenting documentation of the husband’s overseas business and stable income.
• Outlining a realistic and concrete plan for the wife’s return to the workforce in Singapore.
• Framing the LTVP appeal as a long-term, committed spousal relationship, rather than a short-term or convenience-based arrangement.

We ensured the appeal letter was sincere, well-supported, and aligned with ICA’s evaluation criteria.

LTVP Appeal Outcome

The appeal was approved and the husband’s LTVP was granted after 6 weeks from filing. This was despite initial concerns around income and employment history.

What This Case Shows

LTVP applications can still succeed even when one or both spouses do not meet traditional financial benchmarks. What matters is how the relationship and support structure are presented, especially in newer marriages or self-employed scenarios.

Want our help for your LTVP appeal?

If your LTVP application has been rejected, or if you are concerned about weak financial history or a short marriage duration, reach out to us here. We offer a free 20-minute consultation to assess your situation and provide guidance on how to move forward.

Inquiry Date: January 2025

Client Background

Entrepreneurs applying for EPs through newly incorporated companies often face additional scrutiny. Without clear evidence of operational activity, business planning, or financial support, applications may be rejected even when the director is well-qualified.

At the same time, restrictions around opening corporate bank accounts created further delays and uncertainty.

There was also an added time pressure. If her EP was approved, she wanted to convert her children’s Student Passes into Dependant Passes, giving them more flexibility and fewer administrative renewals..

The Challenge around passing the Employment Pass Eligibility Check

Entrepreneurs applying for EPs through newly incorporated companies often face additional scrutiny. Without clear evidence of operational activity, business planning, or financial support, applications may be rejected even when the director is well-qualified.

At the same time, restrictions around opening corporate bank accounts created further delays and uncertainty.

There was also an added time pressure. If her EP was approved, she wanted to convert her children’s Student Passes into Dependant Passes, giving them more flexibility and fewer administrative renewals.

Our Approach

We advised the client to:

• Structure her company documentation and operational plan to meet MOM expectations.
• Time the application and supporting materials to show business readiness.
• Present her move from LOC to EP as a strategic step that demonstrated continuity and business stability.

As a result, the submission reflected strong business potential and clear intent.

If you are a business owner or director applying for an Employment Pass, see the Applying for an Employment Pass as a Business Owner or Director section of our Employment Pass Guide for practical insights on timing, structure, and documentation.

Next, we mapped out the dependant sponsorship steps so everything could proceed smoothly once the EP was granted.

The Outcome

MOM approved the EP application in under two weeks. Following this, we helped the client successfully convert her children’s Student Passes into Dependant Passes.

Today, she operates her business in Singapore under a valid Employment Pass, with her family’s immigration status aligned for long-term stability.

What This Case Shows

Many parents accompanying children in Singapore eventually decide to start businesses or formalise their work through an Employment Pass. With the right preparation and positioning, it is entirely possible to secure approval even as the founder of a new company.

Ace your Employment Pass Eligibility Check

If you are in Singapore on an LOC, LTVP, or accompanying a child on a Student Pass, and are thinking about launching a business or transitioning to an EP, we can help.

Apply for a free 20-minute consultation call here to understand your eligibility and how to structure your application for success.

Inquiry Date: 26 June 2025

Client Background

A senior professional with over 13 years of experience in freight trading (but without a degree) reached out for advice before relocating to Singapore. He had been offered a role with a global trading firm (S$220K+ incentives), but local HR had expressed concerns about his eligibility due to the lack of a university degree.

His qualifications included:

• 13+ years of industry-specific experience
• A professional qualification from the Institute of Chartered Shipbrokers
• No formal university degree

Problem: Misinterpretation of Employment Pass Requirements by employer

Despite the high salary and seniority of the role, the client was told by the hiring company that the Ministry of Manpower (MOM) required a formal academic degree, and that professional qualifications alone might not be accepted. This left him uncertain about whether to proceed, especially given that the role offer was contingent on EP approval.

There was confusion between MOM’s official guidelines, which allow for consideration of “professional qualifications or specialised skills,” and the internal HR interpretation, which suggested a blanket rejection without a degree.

Our Approach

We conducted a tailored assessment of the client’s eligibility for an Employment Pass based on:

• His salary package and COMPASS score
• The weight of his professional qualification in the context of his industry
• His substantial, specialised work experience
• His potential role scope and seniority

We also advised him on:

• The realistic salary threshold he would need to meet given the lack of a degree
• Additional supporting documentation to strengthen the application if the EP were to be filed
• How to engage with the employer’s HR team to correct misunderstandings about eligibility

If you want to see how COMPASS points are actually calculated — and what affects approval, see our Employment Pass guide section on Eligibility Criteria and COMPASS Framework.

The Outcome

The client received clarity and confidence regarding his eligibility and possible challenges. Our strategic guidance helped him move forward with discussions with the company, armed with accurate and up-to-date information to ensure his EP application would be structured properly from the outset.

What This Case Shows

This case highlights the importance of not relying solely on employer interpretation of MOM guidelines, especially for senior candidates without traditional degrees. Professional qualifications and extensive experience are valid grounds for EP consideration, but proper framing and salary alignment may be needed.

When misunderstandings about MOM requirements result in rejections, a structured appeal can make a difference.
Read our Employment Pass Appeal case study to see how a director’s application was approved after two appeals.

Consult Us on your EP eligibility

If you are considering a role in Singapore and are unsure about your EP eligibility due to non-traditional qualifications or complex employment history, we can help. Book a complimentary 20-minute consultation here and get clarity before you move forward with your offer.

We recently assisted with two Short-Term Visit Pass (STVP) extension requests involving Chinese passport holders. One involved a planned childbirth in Singapore, while the other was an urgent reapplication after an initial rejection. Both required timely submissions, careful justification, and a clear understanding of ICA’s expectations.

Case Study 2: STVP Extension For Chinese National Planning To Give Birth

Inquiry Received: 18 June 2025

Client Background

A confinement or maternity support agency contacted us for assistance with an STVP extension for a Chinese national planning to give birth in Singapore.

Challenge with Short Term Visit Pass Extension

ICA requires complete justification and supporting documentation, especially when seeking to extend beyond the original visit period.

Our Approach

We prepared a clear application with substantiating documentation, framed within ICA’s accepted reasons for extension. After approval of the first extension, we are now supporting a second extension post-delivery, and also assisting with the baby’s documentation and registration.

Outcome of STVP extension application

First extension approved. Second in progress. Birth registration assistance provided.

What It Shows

Even straightforward cases need proper framing and planning to avoid unnecessary.

Case Study 3: Reapplying STVP Extension after a rejected application

Inquiry Received: 18 June 2025

Client Background

A Chinese national contacted us after their self-submitted STVP extension was rejected. Their pass was expiring the following week, creating an urgent situation.

Challenge with Short Term Pass Visit Extension

ICA’s estimated processing time is up to 5 working days, and time was running out. The applicant had no immediate flight plans and wanted to remain in Singapore for valid personal reasons.

Our Approach

We restructured the application with stronger justification, formalised documentation, and reframed the purpose of stay to better align with ICA’s discretionary criteria. We submitted the fresh application on 18 July 2025.

Outcome of STVP extension application

Extension was approved the next day on 19 July, well before the STVP expiry.

What It Shows:

Even after a Short Term Visit Pass rejection, a well-prepared reapplication with the right documentation and positioning can succeed, especially if submitted quickly and strategically.

Contact Us for Your STVP extension

If you are planning to extend a Short-Term Visit Pass in Singapore, especially for family, medical, or personal reasons, we can help ensure your application is well-prepared and positioned for approval. Contact us here for a complimentary 20-minute consultation.

Inquiry Date: 16 July 2025

Client Background

A Singapore-based director holding a PRC passport encountered complications with his immigration status after his Employment Pass (EP) lapsed. His colleague contacted us through our website to seek urgent advice on the matter.

Problem: Unsuccessful Employment Pass Renewal

Due to an administrative oversight by the company’s corporate secretary, the director’s EP had lapsed. He had since been travelling in and out of Singapore as a short-term visitor. However, during his most recent return from Malaysia, he was denied entry.

This was likely due to his affiliation with a registered Singapore company, which raised concerns that he may have been working in Singapore without a valid work pass.

Our Approach To Get His Employment Pass Renewed

We recommended a two-pronged strategy:

• Entry Application: Although PRC passport holders do not require a visa for short-term visits, a formal application for permission to enter Singapore is necessary following a refusal of entry. We guided the client through this process with clear justification and supporting evidence.
  
• Employment Pass Application: In parallel, we initiated a new EP application, which provided additional support for the entry application. We prepared a strong justification and included documentation that demonstrated the legitimacy of the role, the company’s structure, and the necessity of his presence in Singapore.
  

We also advised on how to present the situation clearly and responsibly, including steps being taken to ensure the company remains compliant with all future immigration requirements.
For a step-by-step guide on structuring Employment Pass applications and understanding MOM’s evaluation process, visit our Employment Pass Guide.

The Outcome

The case is currently ongoing. We are in the final stages of compiling documentation and preparing the formal letters for submission to the relevant authorities.

What This Case Shows

This case illustrates that a refusal of entry does not automatically lead to a ban, but swift and strategic action is essential. It also serves as a reminder that directors and business owners must monitor their own pass validity closely and ensure that company records and immigration statuses are actively managed.

Contact Transform Borders

If you have been refused entry to Singapore or are facing complications with an expired EP, contact us here for a complimentary 20-minute consultation. We will review your situation and advise on the most appropriate next steps, even in complex or time-sensitive scenarios.

Case Study (NEW): Fixing a Rejected Employment Pass Renewal Due to Job Title Issues

Inquiry Date: 15 April 2025

Client Background

In April 2025, we were contacted by a financial services firm after their Employment Pass (EP) renewal for a foreign employee was rejected. The company wasn’t sure why it had failed, especially since the individual had been working in Singapore on a valid EP for some time.

The Problem or Challenge

After reviewing the application, we found that the issue was related to the declared occupation in the renewal submission. While everything else seemed in order, the job title that had been used didn’t align well with the actual scope of the role. This likely raised concerns during MOM’s assessment.

Sometimes, job titles that seem routine internally can trigger scrutiny if they appear too generic or don’t clearly match the industry or level of seniority expected.

Our Approach

We worked with the company to:

• Review the job description and responsibilities
• Reframe the declared occupation in a way that accurately reflected the role
• Submit a revised application with clear supporting information
  

We also advised the client on how to avoid similar issues in future renewals by aligning internal HR practices with MOM expectations.

The Outcome

The revised EP renewal was approved in under two weeks. The employee was able to continue work without disruption, and the company appreciated the quick turnaround and clarity we provided.

What This Case Shows

Not all rejections are about salary or qualifications. Sometimes, the way a job is described can influence the outcome. Ensuring that the role is positioned clearly — both in title and in scope — is key to a successful application.

For a real example of how a structured appeal can turn an initial rejection into approval, read our Employment Pass Appeal Approved in Singapore case study.

Book a Consultation

If your EP renewal has been rejected or you’re preparing to submit one soon, we can help. Reach out for a 20-minute consultation and let us guide you through the process with clarity and confidence.