Singapore launches new visa for top tech professionals. Find out what ONE Pass (AI and Tech) is, what the requirements are, the salary range and how the program will change opportunities for IT professionals and startup founders from 2027

Singapore continues to strengthen its position as one of the global technology hubs. From January 1, 2027, the country is introducing a new work visa format - ONE Pass (AI and Tech), which will be focused on highly qualified specialists in the field of artificial intelligence and advanced technologies.

The new program will actually replace the current Tech.Pass, which has been in operation since 2021, and will become part of the broader Overseas Networks and Expertise (ONE Pass) system.

We will tell you about the terms and requirements of the new work permit in Singapore in this article.

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What is ONE Pass and who is it for?

ONE Pass is a special work visa designed to attract the world's leading professionals, top managers and experts from various industries.

Unlike standard work permits, this visa provides much more freedom: its holders can work with several companies at once or change employers without the need to re-issue documents.

The program is aimed at specialists in the following areas: technology, business leadership, science and research, arts and culture, sports and academic activities.

Typically, to participate, you need to have an income of 30,000 Singapore dollars per month or confirm outstanding professional achievements at the international level.

What will change with the advent of ONE Pass (AI and Tech)?

The new direction of ONE Pass (AI and Tech) will be highly specialized and focused specifically on technological experts and startup founders.

The main focus is on specialists working in the most promising industries:

- Artificial Intelligence;

- Quantum Computing;

- Software Development;

- Deep Tech and Engineering.

The main goal is to attract industry leaders who can develop Singapore's innovation ecosystem and create new technology companies.

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ONE Pass (AI and Tech) visa validity period

One of the key changes will be an increase in the validity period of the visa. Instead of a short-term permit, the new format offers a much longer period of stay:

Tech.Pass

- Validity period: 2 years;

- Extension: for another 2 years (once).

ONE Pass (AI and Tech)

- Validity period: 5 years;

- Extension: for another 5 years.

This means that foreign professionals will have more stability to develop their careers or start a business in the country.

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Requirements for employers and companies for ONE Pass (AI and Tech) visa in Singapore

To apply for a ONE Pass (AI and Tech) visa in Singapore, the candidate must be associated with a technology company or technology investment structure.

The applicant must work or have recently worked for:

- A technology company;

- A technology division of a large company;

- A venture capital firm that invests in technology.

At the same time, the company itself must meet at least one of the following criteria:

- Market valuation - from 500 million USD;

- Annual revenue - from 200 million USD;

- Assets under management - from 500 million USD;

- Funding raised (for startups) - from 30 million USD.

These requirements ensure that candidates have experience working in a strong and competitive environment.

Experience requirements for Singapore ONE Pass (AI and Tech)

In addition to the company, the professional experience of the applicant himself also plays an important role.

Candidates must have at least 5 years of experience in the last 10 years in key positions, including:

- Founder or co-founder of the company;

- Top management (CEO, CTO, etc.);

- Senior technical specialists (e.g., senior software engineer).

This means that the program is not aimed at beginners, but at already established professionals who have participated in the development or scaling of a business.

Read also, TOP 10 countries for digital nomads according to Global Citizen Solutions.

Income requirements for ONE Pass (AI and Tech) visa

The standard income threshold is from 30,000 Singapore dollars per month for at least 12 months.

However, for the AI ​​and Tech direction, flexibility is provided, earnings can consist of:

- Base salary from 22,500 Singapore dollars;

- Additional payments (shares, options, bonuses).

This corresponds to the realities of the technology industry, where a significant part of the income is formed at the expense of equity.

How does ONE Pass (AI and Tech) differ from the standard one?

The difference between the two formats is quite significant:

Standard ONE Pass

- Suitable for specialists from various industries;

- A wider list of professions.

ONE Pass (AI and Tech)

- Focused exclusively on the technology sector;

- Clearer requirements for experience and employers;

- Focus on high-level experts.

Thus, the new direction is more specialized and specifically targeted at technology leaders.

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Why is Singapore implementing these changes?

Singapore is actively competing with other global technology centers for talent.

After launching Tech.Pass in 2021, the country has already taken the first step towards attracting entrepreneurs and engineers. In 2022, ONE Pass appeared, which expanded opportunities for international experts.

Now, with the launch of ONE Pass (AI and Tech), the state is making an even more specific bet on the future: the development of artificial intelligence, investments in deep tech, the creation of innovative companies and the formation of a global technology center.

The launch of ONE Pass (AI and Tech) in 2027 is a strategic step by Singapore aimed at attracting the best global talents in the field of technology. With a longer validity period, flexible terms and clear requirements, the program will become attractive to experienced professionals, startup founders and engineers. In the long term, this will help the country not only strengthen its economy, but also establish itself among the leading technology centers of the world.

Singapore, Dubai, Portugal - modern technology centers are actively opening their doors to international specialists. But each country has its own rules, requirements and nuances of document processing.

The Digital Nomad Guide will help you figure out:

- What visas are available for IT specialists;

- How to confirm income and experience;

- Where is it more profitable to open a business or work remotely.

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Reminder! In 2026, Sri Lanka is actively developing the Digital Nomad Visa program, opening up new opportunities for foreign remote professionals, entrepreneurs and freelancers. We have already told you who can apply for this type of residence permit, what financial requirements are set for applicants, how long they are allowed to stay in the country and what benefits Digital Nomad Visa holders receive.

Photo – Freepik.com

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