Singapore has long been a top destination for global talent, offering a dynamic economy, excellent infrastructure, and a high quality of life. Many professionals looking to work and live in Singapore long-term often consider the option of obtaining Permanent Residency (PR). While PR provides benefits such as public housing, healthcare, and education subsidies, the ONE Pass presents a viable alternative to Singapore PR for those who do not plan to become Singapore citizens but want to take advantage of the country’s economic opportunities.
Understanding the ONE Pass
The Overseas Networks & Expertise (ONE) Pass is a special work pass introduced by Singapore in January 2023, designed to attract top-tier talent across various sectors, including business, arts and culture, sports, academia and research.
In its inaugural year, nearly 4,200 applications were approved. In 2024, approximately 3,000 ONE Passes were issued, with about one in six granted to new entrants to Singapore’s workforce. The majority of pass holders are employed in the financial and insurance services, information and communication, and professional services sectors.
Why ONE Pass is a Strong Alternative to PR
| ONE Pass | Singapore PR | |
| Length of Stay | Grants a five-year stay in Singapore with the possibility of renewal, making it a suitable alternative for those who wish to live in Singapore long-term but do not seek citizenship. | Provides indefinite stay but requires a commitment to integrating into Singaporean society, including CPF contributions and potential military service obligations for male dependents. Re-Entry Permit needs to be renewed if planning to go overseas. |
| Work Flexibility | Holders can work for multiple employers or start their own business without additional approvals. | Freedom in career choices with more job and business opportunities available. |
| Taxation & CPF Contributions | Holders are taxed as foreigners and do not contribute to CPF, allowing them to maximise earnings. | Requires CPF contributions but provides access to CPF-related benefits such as funds for public housing and healthcare. |
| Family Benefits | Allows spouses and children to stay in Singapore on a Dependant’s Pass or Long-Term Visit Pass (LTVP), making it a practical choice for families. | Spouses and children can apply for PR and enjoy full residency rights. |
| Housing & Property Ownership | May only buy private properties, renting is the norm. | Can purchase resale HDB flats as a family unit or engaged couple and have fewer property ownership restrictions. |
Who Should Choose ONE Pass?
ONE Pass is ideal for individuals who:
- Prefer work flexibility without being tied to an employer.
- Are high-income earners or industry leaders seeking a long-term but non-permanent residence in Singapore.
- Want to avoid CPF contributions.
- Do not plan to settle permanently in Singapore but need a strategic base for work and business.
- Want the option to retire elsewhere.
Who Should Choose Singapore PR?
PR is better suited for individuals who:
- Want the security of long-term residency and potential citizenship.
- Prefer CPF savings and its benefits – housing, healthcare, retirement funds.
- Need stability for family members, including housing, education and healthcare subsidies.
- Plan to integrate into Singaporean society and contribute long-term.
- Aware of Singapore’s mandatory military service for eligible second-generation men.
ONE Pass as an Alternative to Singapore PR
For professionals who wish to capitalise on Singapore’s economic opportunities without committing to citizenship in future, the ONE Pass is a strong alternative to PR. It offers a long enough duration of stay of five years, with renewal options while providing significant work flexibility and financial advantages.
While PR remains the best choice for those seeking permanent settlement, the ONE Pass caters to high-earning professionals who value mobility and economic benefits over long-term residency commitments. Depending on individual goals, ONE Pass can be a more practical solution for those leveraging Singapore as a business and professional hub without the long-term obligations of PR.
The approval rate for Singapore PR is around 30% annually, which is highly competitive. PR holders are required to live like a Singaporean and assimilate into the local culture, making up the Singaporean core. PR holders, therefore, are usually serious candidates for future citizenship.
