The Singapore Ministry of Manpower (MOM) has announced the launch of a new Overseas Networks & Expertise Pass (ONE) Pass (AI and Tech) track, set to take effect in January 2027. This new pass introduces more favorable terms for global artificial intelligence (AI) and technology talent, as outlined by MOM in its 2026 update1 and replaces the existing Tech Pass launched in January 2021.
WHY THIS MATTERS
The introduction of the new ONE Pass (AI and Tech) track reflects Singapore’s policy focus on supporting the AI and technology sector. The new track provides additional flexibility in meeting salary criteria by recognising both cash and non-cash compensation, such as employee stock option plans and employee share ownership. This broader recognition of compensation structures could reduce eligibility constraints for attracting and retaining AI and technology talent.
Key Highlights
As part of efforts to strengthen Singapore’s position as a global hub for AI and technology talent, MOM will introduce a new ONE Pass (AI and Tech) track in January 2027, replacing the existing Tech Pass. Eligibility under this new track will focus on applicants’ proven track record with established technology organisations, alongside clear salary and experience thresholds.
Company-related criteria
- Applicants are required to be currently or recently employed by a qualifying organisation in the technology sector, such as a technology company, an in‑house technology team, or a technology‑focused venture capital firm.
- Organisations are expected to meet at least one of the three following benchmarks:
- a valuation/market capitalisation of at least USD 500 million;
- annual revenue of at least USD 200 million, or
- at least USD 500 million in assets under management.
- a valuation/market capitalisation of at least USD 500 million;
Technology companies that have raised at least USD 30 million in funding will also qualify.
Individual eligibility criteria
Applicants will need to meet both of the following requirements:
- Qualifying salary: Earn at least SGD 30,000 per month for 12 consecutive months immediately before application. This may comprise a fixed monthly salary of at least SGD 22,500, together with vested non-cash components (equity-based remuneration), subject to assessment.
- Relevant experience: Have at least five cumulative years of experience in a founder or C-suite role, or in a senior technical role (such as senior software engineer), with the experience gained within the past 10 years.
KPMG INSIGHTS
The introduction of the ONE Pass (AI and Tech) track underscores MOM’s shift towards a more selective approach to attracting AI and tech talent, with a clear emphasis on quality rather than volume. Eligibility is anchored to applicants’ proven track record in established or well‑funded technology organisations, supported by minimum salary and experience requirements.
A notable change under the new framework is the recognition of vested equity‑based compensation, such as employee share awards and stock options, as part of the qualifying salary. This aligns Singapore’s eligibility benchmarks more closely with global compensation practices for senior AI and technology professionals, including founders, technical leaders and scale‑up executives, whose remuneration often extends beyond fixed cash pay.
Importantly, eligibility is assessed not only at the individual level but also based on the profile of the applicant’s employer. Qualifying organisations must meet defined scale indicators, such as valuation, revenue, assets under management or funding raised. Taken together, these criteria position the ONE Pass (AI and Tech) as a targeted pathway aimed at experienced professionals from mature technology companies, well‑funded high‑growth firms, and technology‑focused investment platforms.
As a result, smaller or early stage startups without significant funding may continue to face eligibility constraints under this track, even where technical capability is strong.
Although the ONE Pass (AI and Tech) is expected to take effect in January 2027, the eligibility framework and policy direction are already clear, giving employers time to review workforce planning and talent strategies ahead of implementation.
ENDNOTE:
1 Singapore Ministry of Manpower, “Foreign Workforce Policy Announcements at COS 2026,” published on 3 March 2026.
Please note that unless otherwise stated, all monetary amounts are expressed in U.S. dollars (USD) or Singapore dollars (SGD).
Contacts
Murray Sarelius
Head of Personal Tax & Global Mobility Services, Regional Lead, Global Mobility Services, ASPAC
KPMG in Singapore
Disclaimer
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The information contained in this newsletter was submitted by the KPMG International member firm in Singapore.
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