Last updated: February 2026
Client Background
In recent years, Dependant Pass (DP) holders in Singapore have faced increasing difficulty securing traditional employment due to higher Employment Pass salary thresholds and stricter hiring scrutiny. As a result, more DP holders are exploring alternative, compliant pathways to remain professionally active in Singapore.
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
Under Ministry of Manpower (MOM) regulations, Dependant Pass holders must obtain a Letter of Consent before commencing any form of work or business activity in Singapore.
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 the client’s own name
- Structuring the business to align with the client’s professional skills and intended services
- Preparing and submitting a Letter of Consent (LOC) application to MOM
- Advising on operational responsibilities, including invoicing, tax declarations, and 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 start working legally on a Dependant Pass?
If you are holding a Dependant Pass and exploring compliant ways to work in Singapore, we can help assess the most appropriate pathway, including sole proprietorship setup and Letter of Consent (LOC) applications.
You may book a 20-minute consultation to understand your options and how the Letter of Consent (LOC) process works in practice, or learn more about our
Singapore work pass services.
About the Author: Sulochana Uthirapathi is the Founder of Transform Borders, a Singapore immigration consultancy established in 2017. She specialises in Employment Pass (EP), Permanent Residency (PR) and Citizenship applications, supporting professionals, families and corporate clients with legally guided and structured immigration processes.