Singapore’s Ministry of Manpower (MOM) has reported a rise in the number of One Pass holders, reaching 8,500 in 2025. This marks a significant increase in a programme aimed at attracting highly skilled foreign talent to the city-state. The One Pass scheme combines work and permanent residency privileges, offering successful applicants greater flexibility and stability to live and work in Singapore.
Introduced to streamline access for professionals who contribute significantly to Singapore’s economy, the One Pass is designed for individuals whose skills are in high demand. It removes certain bureaucratic hurdles by combining the employment pass and permanent residency into one streamlined process.
The growth to 8,500 holders reflects Singapore’s ongoing strategy to remain competitive in the global talent market, especially amid regional competition and evolving economic needs. Key sectors benefiting from this talent pipeline include technology, finance, and biomedical sciences, where demand for experts remains strong.
The increase also underscores Singapore’s efforts to balance economic growth with a controlled and merit-based approach to immigration. While the One Pass facilitates the entry of foreign talent, the government continues to calibrate policies to protect local job opportunities and social cohesion.
Looking ahead, MOM is likely to continue monitoring the scheme's impact and adjust criteria to ensure the scheme serves Singapore’s long-term economic goals. The evolving global landscape means Singapore must remain adaptive in attracting and retaining critical talent for sustained growth.