For many professionals relocating to Singapore, building a stable life often means having their family close by. The Long-Term Visit Pass, commonly known as the LTVP, supports this by allowing certain family members of Employment Pass or S Pass holders to live in Singapore for an extended period. Although the application process is generally straightforward, there are important eligibility rules and requirements that applicants should understand before applying.

Sponsorship Requirements

Every LTVP application must be sponsored by a valid Employment Pass or S Pass holder. The applicant cannot apply independently, and the sponsor must maintain a valid work pass throughout the entire duration of the LTVP. This ensures that the visit pass remains tied to the primary work pass holder’s legal employment status in Singapore. If the sponsor’s pass is cancelled or not renewed, the LTVP is typically cancelled as well, making it important for families to plan ahead.

Who Is Eligible for the LTVP

The LTVP is more flexible than the Dependant’s Pass and extends to a broader range of family members. It can be used for common-law or de facto spouses, stepchildren under 21, handicapped children above 21 and parents, provided the sponsor meets the salary criteria. This makes the LTVP especially useful for families with non-traditional structures or extended family members who require long-term residence in Singapore.

Minimum Salary Criteria

To qualify as a sponsor, the main pass holder must meet specific salary thresholds set by the Ministry of Manpower.

A minimum monthly salary of S$6,000 is required to sponsor a

• Common-law spouse
• Unmarried step-children <21 years old
• Unmarried handicapped children >21 years old
  
  

While a minimum monthly salary of S$12,000 is required to sponsor

• Parents

For more information on sponsorship eligibility, please refer to MOM Singapore.

Duration and Renewal

The validity of the LTVP is generally aligned with the validity of the main work pass or the duration requested, whichever is shorter. It can be issued for up to two years at a time and renewed as long as the sponsor continues to meet the eligibility requirements. Renewal applications should be submitted early to avoid any disruption to the family member’s stay in Singapore.

What LTVP Holders Can and Cannot Do

LTVP holders can legally reside in Singapore but are not automatically allowed to work. To take up employment, the LTVP holder’s prospective employer must apply for a Letter of Consent (LOC) or a separate work pass. Families should take this into consideration when planning employment or career options for spouses or dependants.

Required Documents

The documents needed for an LTVP application vary depending on the relationship and nationality of the applicant. However, most applications require passport copies of both the applicant and sponsor, proof of relationship such as marriage or birth certificates, employment pass details, recent payslips from the sponsor and, for common-law spouses, supporting evidence such as affidavits or joint financial records.

The Ministry of Manpower may request additional information if needed.

Processing Time and Application Method

LTVP applications are submitted online through the Ministry of Manpower portal, usually by the employer of the EP or S Pass holder. Processing typically takes between three and six weeks, although timelines may vary depending on the complexity of the case. Once approved, applicants receive an In-Principle Approval letter and must complete formalities in Singapore before receiving the physical pass.

The Bottom Line

Understanding the requirements early helps ensure a smooth and successful application process. With proper preparation, the Long-Term Visit Pass can be an important step in building both a career and a home in Singapore.

If you need guidance on LTVP applications or other work pass matters, our team at Verti is ready to help. Reach out to us at contactus@verti.sg or +65 6909 5691.