Guide to Singapore Tech Pass

The Singapore government is keenly aware of the need to strengthen our position as a leading tech hub of the region, and has rolled out a few schemes to achieve this. As part of this movement, the government is trying to make it more attractive for tech professionals to work and live in Singapore, and Tech.Pass is the latest of such initiatives.

Tech.Pass is part of Singapore’s ongoing efforts to solidify itself as a leader in the global tech economy. While the program will be of interest to tech investors, experts and entrepreneurs, it may be of limited value to established companies. These companies will likely find traditional work pass options more suitable for most of their workforce. Additional information about the application process is expected in the coming weeks, and Deloitte will provide additional updates as information becomes available.

What is the Singapore Tech.Pass Program?

The Tech.Pass program is an extension of the well-known Tech@SG program which was designed to assist fast-growing companies to assess much-needed talents required to scale up their business both in Singapore and in the region. Under the Tech@SG program, companies and businesses that were considered eligible were provided with up to 10 employment passes for foreign employees to join the workforce of the company and work in core roles within the company. The immediate benefit of this program is that the rate of rejections for foreign employees seeking to gain these passes has significantly reduced. 

To contribute further towards Singapore advancing as a tech hub in the region, the Singapore Tech.Pass was designed. It was expected that under this program, the talent pool within Singapore would be widened and the local tech ecosystem would be enhanced.

2. What are the benefits afforded to Singapore Tech.Pass holders?

One major advantage that is afforded to Singapore Tech.Pass holders is that they are provided with a higher degree of flexibility. The pass is valid for up to 2 years, therefore during the period, its holders are permitted to engage in a wide range of activities such as:

• Running or even starting up a tech company within Singapore.
• Working as a director within one or more tech companies within Singapore
• Being able to invest in one or more companies based in Singapore.
• Working as an employee at any time within those two years  in one or more companies based in Singapore
• Conducting corporate workshops or training
• Conducting lectures within institutes of higher learning in Singapore

Learn more about Singapore Tech Pass at this Singapore Company Incorporation blog.