Visiting Singapore for Business
Traveling to Singapore for professional reasons requires obtaining a visa suited to your activity, issued by Singaporean authorities. As a key hub of trade and finance in Asia, Singapore welcomes thousands of professionals, expatriates, researchers, and entrepreneurs each year.
What Can You Do with a Professional Visa?
Depending on the type of work pass or visa obtained, you may:
- Work for a company based in Singapore under a local contract or on assignment;
- Attend meetings, conferences, trade fairs, or seminars;
- Conduct short-term assignments or business prospecting;
- Create or manage a local business as an investor or entrepreneur;
- Work as a researcher, lecturer, or guest trainer at an academic or scientific institution.
Types of Professional Visas
- Employment Pass (EP): For qualified professionals with a job offer and a minimum salary requirement;
- S Pass: For mid-skilled workers and technicians (specific qualifications and salary levels required);
- EntrePass: For entrepreneurs aiming to start an innovative business in Singapore;
- Work Holiday Pass: For young graduates from specific countries, for short-term work stays;
- Short-Term Visit Pass (Business): For short business trips with no paid activity.
Eligibility Requirements
- Have a formal job offer or a validated project with a local partner;
- Apply via a Singaporean employer or sponsor (except for some investor categories);
- Demonstrate professional skills, relevant education, and meet minimum salary thresholds (depending on the pass);
- Hold valid health insurance for the duration of stay.
Some categories (e.g., EP, S Pass) are subject to quotas and company evaluations. Processing time generally takes 1 to 4 weeks.
Target Profiles
- Expat executives, engineers, consultants, and specialized experts;
- Entrepreneurs and startup founders establishing a presence in Southeast Asia;
- Employees on assignment or seconded by their company;
- Participants in trade shows, business conferences, or networking events with no local remuneration;
- Researchers and professors invited by Singaporean institutions.