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Visa route guide

Singapore work visas for American citizens

American citizens moving to Singapore for technology and engineering roles have 3 realistic visa routes. The strongest options are the Employment Pass (EP) and the Tech.Pass. Requirements, costs, and processing times for each are below.

Reviewed July 2026 · Sourced from official government fees and requirements

The short answer

Visiting first: Visa-free for 90 days. For work, American citizens most often use the Employment Pass (EP) or the Tech.Pass. Every option for this route:

Employment Pass (EP)

Likely Eligible

Main work pass for foreign professionals, managers, executives, and specialists.

Processing time
3-8 weeks
Validity
2 years initially, renewable for 3 years
Government fees
SGD $105 application + SGD $225 issuance

Requirements

  • Job offer from Singapore employer
  • Minimum monthly salary of SGD $5,000 (higher for older candidates)
  • Good university degree or professional qualifications
  • Pass COMPASS points assessment (from Sep 2023)

Documents you will need

  • Valid US passport: With adequate validity
  • Educational certificates: Degree transcripts and certificates
  • Employment verification: From previous employers
  • Passport photos: Recent photos
  • COMPASS self-assessment: Points calculator result

Worth knowing

  • COMPASS framework assesses salary, qualifications, diversity, support for locals
  • Tech salaries in Singapore are competitive - usually meet threshold
  • Employer must apply on your behalf via EP Online
  • Dependant passes available for spouse and children
  • Can apply for Permanent Residence after 6 months

Path to residency: Permanent Residence after 6 months (approval discretionary)

Tech.Pass

Potentially Eligible

Special pass for established tech entrepreneurs, leaders, and technical experts.

Processing time
4-8 weeks
Validity
2 years, renewable
Government fees
SGD $105 application + SGD $225 issuance

Requirements

  • Last drawn fixed monthly salary of at least SGD $20,000
  • Led tech company development with at least $500M valuation
  • Or led tech product development with at least 100K monthly users

Documents you will need

  • Salary documentation: Last 3 months payslips
  • Company valuation proof (optional): If using company criterion
  • Product metrics (optional): If using product criterion

Worth knowing

  • Can start/operate/work for multiple companies
  • Can be a company director, investor, or mentor
  • Spouse can work without separate pass
  • More flexibility than Employment Pass

Path to residency: Can apply for PR like EP holders

EntrePass

Potentially Eligible

For foreign entrepreneurs who want to start and operate a new business.

Processing time
8 weeks
Validity
1-2 years
Government fees
SGD $105 application + SGD $225 issuance

Requirements

  • Innovative business idea
  • Business must be registered as private limited company
  • At least 30% shareholding as an entrepreneur
  • Meet 1 of criteria: funding, incubator, IP, VC backing

Documents you will need

  • Business plan: Detailed 10-page plan
  • Company incorporation: ACRA registration
  • Proof of criterion met: Funding letters, incubator acceptance

Worth knowing

  • Must be new company - cannot be transferred from existing
  • Good for founders with VC backing or accelerator acceptance
  • Renewals require meeting business milestones

Common questions

Do American citizens need a visa to visit Singapore?

Visa-free for 90 days

What is the main work visa for American citizens moving to Singapore?

Employment Pass (EP): Main work pass for foreign professionals, managers, executives, and specialists. Typical processing time is 3-8 weeks, with validity of 2 years initially, renewable for 3 years.

How much does the Employment Pass (EP) cost?

SGD $105 application + SGD $225 issuance. Fees change; confirm current amounts on the official government source before applying.

What other visas can American citizens consider for Singapore?

Tech.Pass, EntrePass. Eligibility depends on your background, so compare the requirements below or use the Gullie visa checker.

Does this guide replace an immigration lawyer?

No. It is an informational starting point, not legal advice. Visa eligibility depends on your specific circumstances, so confirm your options with a qualified immigration professional before relying on them.

Official resources

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