The number of individuals holding Singapore’s Overseas Networks and Expertise (ONE) Pass has reached 8,500 as of 2025, according to the Ministry of Manpower. This specialized visa, introduced to attract top-tier global talent, allows high-earning professionals and experts in various fields to live and work in the country with greater flexibility than standard work permits. The growth in these numbers reflects the government's ongoing strategy to bolster the nation's position as a premier global business hub.
The ONE Pass is designed for individuals earning a high fixed monthly salary or those with exceptional achievements in arts, sports, science, or technology. Unlike traditional employment passes, it is not tied to a single employer, allowing holders to start, operate, or work for multiple companies simultaneously. This feature is intended to encourage entrepreneurship and provide a safety net for experts who may transition between roles or projects.
For the broader public, this influx of high-skilled professionals is intended to stimulate economic growth and knowledge transfer. By bringing in global leaders, the government aims to create new opportunities for local workers, foster innovation, and keep Singapore competitive in a rapidly changing global market. The Ministry of Manpower continues to monitor these figures to ensure the program remains aligned with national economic goals.
Looking ahead, the government will likely continue to refine its talent attraction policies to balance the need for specialized skills with the capacity of local infrastructure. Observers will be watching to see how these 8,500 professionals integrate into the local ecosystem and whether their presence leads to the anticipated long-term economic benefits for the workforce.