Manpower Minister Tan See Leng highlights safeguards to prevent misuse of the Overseas Networks & Expertise Pass, a visa for top talent earning S$30,000 or more monthly.
SINGAPORE: Singapore’s new Overseas Networks & Expertise Pass, designed to attract top global talent, will be closely monitored to prevent misuse, said Manpower Minister Tan See Leng in Parliament on Monday (Aug 12). Addressing 24 parliamentary questions, Dr. Tan explained the government’s strategy to secure Singapore’s position as a talent hub, while highlighting new measures to support local workers.
The Overseas Networks & Expertise Pass, set to begin in January 2023, will be open to professionals with monthly salaries above S$30,000 or significant achievements in fields like arts, sports, academia, or science. The five-year pass will allow holders to work for multiple employers, start businesses, and sponsor dependents, with spouses eligible to work on a Letter of Consent. According to Dr. Tan, this flexibility helps Singapore remain attractive in a global talent market.
Stringent measures will be applied to all pass applications, Dr. Tan noted, with MOM verifying income and conducting background checks, especially for candidates lacking a Singapore employment history. For those converting from existing employment passes, MOM will review income tax filings with the Inland Revenue Authority of Singapore to ensure consistency.
The pass framework is also designed to bolster local workforce development. Singapore will implement a new benchmark linked to the top 10% of Employment Pass holders, adjust processing times for applications, and maintain a five-year Employment Pass option for tech professionals in high-demand roles. In September 2023, COMPASS (Complementarity Assessment Framework) will take effect, requiring firms to demonstrate commitment to local employment.
In Parliament, MPs Desmond Choo, He Ting Ru, and Patrick Tay asked about the risk of abuse, as well as anticipated benefits for local talent and businesses. Dr. Tan responded that there would be “no set quota” for the pass, underscoring Singapore’s focus on quality over quantity. MOM will engage pass holders annually to confirm ongoing eligibility and assess professional contributions. Economic agencies, including the National Arts Council, will collaborate with MOM to identify extraordinary talent.
The pass is expected to create opportunities for Singapore’s SMEs, particularly in new sectors like green energy and FinTech, where local companies may benefit from consulting services and hiring international talent for projects. Dr. Tan emphasized that MOM’s role includes ensuring Singaporeans receive access to career opportunities by attracting global talent, who may set up businesses, advise on local projects, and foster skill transfer.
He also affirmed that Singapore’s policies provide ongoing skills support for Singaporeans, such as the Capability Transfer Programme, which has benefited over 1,000 locals. Other training programs, like the Asian Financial Leaders Scheme, ensure local talent development remains central. By incentivizing companies to invest in local talent and maintaining an open economy for top global professionals, Dr. Tan concluded, Singapore aims to stay competitive while supporting workforce growth.
