This comprehensive guide breaks down everything you need to know about these visas, including eligibility, application processes, benefits, and key differences.
Bringing Your Family: Dependant's Pass (DP) & Long-Term Visit Pass (LTVP) Explained
What is a Dependant's Pass (DP)?
The Dependant's Pass (DP) is a visa designed for the immediate family members of eligible Employment Pass (EP), S Pass, Personalised Employment Pass (PEP), or EntrePass holders. It allows them to live in Singapore with the primary work pass holder .
Eligibility for Dependant's Pass:
· The main pass holder must earn a minimum fixed monthly salary of S$6,000 (based on their own income, not household income) .
· The DP is available only to the legally married spouse and unmarried children under 21 years old (including legally adopted children) .
· The main pass holder must be sponsored by an established, Singapore-registered company (usually their employer) .
Key Features of DP:
· Duration: The DP's validity is aligned with the main work pass's validity period .
· Work Opportunities: DP holders can work in Singapore but must obtain an appropriate work pass (e.g., Employment Pass, S Pass) or a Letter of Consent (LOC) before starting employment .
· Education: Children on DP can enroll in both private and public schools in Singapore. Admission to public schools is competitive and based on seat availability .
Application Process for DP:
1. Submission: The application is typically submitted by the employer or an appointed employment agent of the main pass holder via the Ministry of Manpower's (MOM) EP Online platform .
2. Processing Time: Usually within 3 weeks for dependants of EP and S Pass holders, and up to 8 weeks for dependants of PEP or EntrePass holders .
3. Fees:
· Application fee: S$105 per person .
· Issuance fee: S$225 per pass (paid upon approval) .
4. Post-Approval: Once approved, dependants receive an In-Principle Approval (IPA) letter, which serves as a single-entry visa to Singapore. They must then complete formalities (e.g., biometric registration) to receive the physical DP card .
What is a Long-Term Visit Pass (LTVP)?
The Long-Term Visit Pass (LTVP) is designed for a broader range of applicants, including family members of Singapore citizens (SCs), permanent residents (PRs), or work pass holders who do not qualify for a DP. It allows holders to stay in Singapore for an extended period (up to two years, renewable) .
Eligibility for LTVP:
· For Family Members of SCs/PRs:
· Spouse of an SC or PR.
· Unmarried children under 21 of an SC or PR.
· Parents of an SC or PR .
· For Family Members of Work Pass Holders:
· Common-law spouse.
· Unmarried step-children under 21.
· Unmarried handicapped children aged 21 and above.
· Parents (if the main pass holder earns at least S$12,000 monthly) .
· Other Categories:
· Graduates from higher learning institutions seeking employment in Singapore.
· Parents or grandparents of a child studying in Singapore on a Student's Pass.
· Visitors seeking permission to give birth in Singapore .
Key Features of LTVP:
· Duration: Initially up to two years, renewable .
· Work Restrictions: LTVP holders are not automatically allowed to work and must obtain a work pass (e.g., Employment Pass) separately if they wish to take up employment .
· Application Authority: LTVPs can be issued by either the Immigration and Checkpoints Authority (ICA) or the Ministry of Manpower (MOM), depending on the applicant's category .
Application Process for LTVP:
· For SC/PR Sponsors: Applications are submitted online via ICA e-Services using the sponsor's SingPass .
· Processing Time: Typically up to 6 weeks, but can extend to 6 months for foreign spouses of SCs without a Pre-Marriage LTVP Assessment (PMLA) .
· Fees:
· Application fee: S$45 .
· Issuance fee: **S$60** (plus S$30 for a multiple-journey visa if applicable) .
DP vs. LTVP: Key Differences
Aspect Dependant's Pass (DP) Long-Term Visit Pass (LTVP)
Eligibility Legally married spouse & unmarried children under 21 Broader range: common-law spouses, step-children, parents, etc.
Income Requirement Main pass holder earns ≥ S$6,000/month Varies; parents require main pass holder to earn ≥ S$12,000/month
Work Rights Can work with separate work pass or LOC Not allowed to work without a separate work pass
Duration Tied to main work pass validity Up to 2 years, renewable
Issuing Authority Ministry of Manpower (MOM) ICA or MOM, depending on category
LTVP+ Benefits: What It Is and How to Qualify for Enhanced Privileges
What is LTVP+?
The Long-Term Visit Pass-Plus (LTVP+) is a special scheme introduced to provide foreign spouses of Singapore citizens (SCs) with greater certainty of stay and additional benefits, such as healthcare subsidies and easier employment opportunities . It is designed to support Singaporean families with foreign spouses.
Key Benefits of LTVP+:
1. Longer Validity:
· The LTVP+ is initially valid for three years and can be renewed for up to five years per renewal, offering more stability compared to the standard LTVP .
2. Healthcare Subsidies:
· LTVP+ holders are eligible for healthcare subsidies for inpatient services at restructured hospitals, set at a level close to that of Permanent Residents (PRs) .
3. Employment Benefits:
· LTVP+ holders can seek employment by obtaining a Letter of Consent (LOC) from MOM, instead of a separate work pass. This LOC is not subject to foreign worker quotas or levies, making it easier for employers to hire them .
4. Pathway to PR/Citizenship:
· While LTVP+ is not a prerequisite for Permanent Residence (PR), it can strengthen an applicant's profile by demonstrating long-term ties to Singapore .
Eligibility for LTVP+:
· Primary Eligibility:
· Foreign spouses of Singapore citizens .
· Couples with at least one Singaporean child from their marriage are automatically eligible .
· Without Singaporean Children:
· Couples without children may still qualify if they have been married for at least three years and can demonstrate strong ties to Singapore .
· Other Factors:
· ICA also considers the sponsor's ability to provide financial support, the good conduct of both parties, and the overall family profile .
How to Apply for LTVP+:
· There is no separate application for LTVP+. Eligible applicants who apply for an LTVP will automatically be considered for LTVP+ .
· Applications are submitted through the ICA e-Service, sponsored by the SC spouse .
· Processing Time: Typically up to 6 weeks for couples who completed the Pre-Marriage LTVP Assessment (PMLA); otherwise, it can take up to 6 months .
· Fees: Same as LTVP (application fee: S$45; issuance fee: S$60) .
LTVP vs. LTVP+: Key Differences
Aspect LTVP LTVP+
Validity Up to 2 years 3 years (first issuance), renewable up to 5 years
Healthcare No subsidies PR-level subsidies for inpatient care
Work Rights Must obtain a work pass Eligible for Letter of Consent (LOC)
Eligibility Broad categories Only for foreign spouses of SCs
Practical Tips for Applicants
1. Choose the Right Pass: Determine whether your family members qualify for a DP or LTVP based on your income and relationship. If you are an SC with a foreign spouse, explore LTVP+ for enhanced benefits.
2. Plan Ahead: Processing times can vary. For LTVPs, consider the Pre-Marriage LTVP Assessment (PMLA) to shorten processing time to 6 weeks .
3. Document Preparation: Ensure all documents (e.g., marriage certificates, birth certificates, proof of income) are translated into English if necessary .
4. Stay Informed: Policies change frequently. Always refer to official sources like the ICA website or MOM website for updates.
Key Takeaways to Consider
· The DP is for immediate family members of eligible work pass holders, offering work and education opportunities.
· The LTVP caters to a wider range of relationships but has more restrictions on work rights.
· The LTVP+ provides enhanced benefits, including longer validity, healthcare subsidies, and easier employment access for foreign spouses of Singapore citizens.
Conclusion
Navigating Singapore's dependant visa options can be complex, but understanding the differences between the Dependant's Pass (DP), Long-Term Visit Pass (LTVP), and LTVP+ is the first step toward reuniting your family in Singapore. Whether you are a work pass holder looking to bring your spouse and children or a Singaporean citizen with a foreign spouse, these visas offer pathways to build a stable life in Singapore.
For personalized advice, consider consulting official government portals or licensed immigration consultants. With the right preparation, you can ensure a smooth application process and look forward to creating lasting memories with your family in Singapore.