Can LTVP Holders Work in Singapore? Rules, LOC & Work Permit Explained

You may have an ICA-issued LTVP (Long Term Visit Pass¹) which allows you to live in Singapore if you’re a spouse or close family member of a Singapore citizen or Permanent Resident.

But what about if you want to work? Can LTVP holders work in Singapore? And if so, what are the rules?

This guide covers the basics, looking at the Ministry Of Manpower (MOM) approval routes available depending on your situation, including getting a LOC (Letter of Consent) or Work Permit.

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Can LTVP holders work in Singapore?

Yes. LTVP holders can work in Singapore - but certain conditions can apply.

It’s helpful to understand that while the Immigration and Checkpoints Authority (ICA) issues long term visit passes to eligible applicants, they don’t actually manage the approval process for work. This approval is regulated by the Ministry of Manpower (MOM) - and so to know if you’re able to work legally in Singapore with an LTVP you’ll need to understand the rules of both of these agencies.

In most cases, LTVP holders need additional approval from MOM before they can start work. Exactly what's required depends on your LTVP category. You may need:

• A Work Permit²
• A Letter of Consent (LOC)³
• A pre-approved Letter of Consent (PLOC) for eligible applicants and renewals⁴

We’ll dive into the details in this guide - but you can also get advice from MOM directly if you need further support.

This guide is for information only. Take professional advice based on your own circumstances before starting to work in Singapore with an LTVP.

Types of LTVP holders

The work route you’ll need to follow depends on the type of LTVP you’ve been issued by ICA.

There are also additional rules to keep in mind. Some occupations are restricted for these permit types - we’ll cover these in a moment.

Minimum remaining validity

To apply for a work permit you must have at least 4 months left to run on your LTVP. To apply for an LOC you’ll usually need 3 months validity on your LTVP.

First-year restriction for parents of students

If you’re applying for a work permit as a parent accompanying a student it’s good to know you won't be eligible for the first year in Singapore. This is to allow you time to help your child settle into the Singaporean education system.

Restricted occupations

Some occupations are restricted. For example, LTVP holders generally can’t work as dance hostesses or masseurs under these schemes.

In many cases you’ll need to find a job before you can get the relevant permit, as the employer will take care of the application on your behalf. We’ll walk through each permit type next to give an overview.

What is a Letter of Consent (LOC)?

An LOC allows certain LTVP holders to work legally in Singapore.

You must secure a job before applying, as the employer applies on your behalf. Make sure you have at least 3 months of validity left to run on your LTVP before starting the process for your LOC. If not, you may need to renew this before starting the LOC process.

Your job must be in an approved sector. Some roles are not eligible, and certain occupations may require additional supporting documents.

From the employer’s perspective, no foreign worker levy or quota is required to employ someone with an LOC.

Be aware that policies may change from time to time. Always check the MOM website before you apply to make sure you're up to date on the rules as they apply to your specific situation.

What is a pre-approved Letter of Consent (PLOC)?

Some eligible applicants are invited to apply for a PLOC at the same time as applying for their LTVP, or to renew an existing LTVP. This means that you don’t need to secure an employer in advance of application.

You can not be self-employed with a PLOC - and as with other passes you may not work in ‘objectionable’ jobs.

When is a work permit required?

If you are issued an LTVP as the parent of a Singapore citizen or PR, or if you’re a parent accompanying a student who holds a study pass in Singapore, you must get a work permit before you can work legally in Singapore.

You must secure a job offer first, as your employer will submit the application for you. Make sure you have 4 months at least to run on your LTVP before applying.

From the perspective of the employer, LTVP holders with a work permit are subject to foreign worker levy, and counted under the employer's overall quota of foreign employees.

LTVP vs LTVP+

As well as the standard LTVP, there is also another pass called the LTVP+. This is issued to some eligible applicants and offers a longer duration of stay as well as healthcare and employment benefits⁵.

Generally the LTVP+ is issued to couples who have at least one child who is a Singaporean citizen, as well as other applicants based on merit.

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Frequently asked questions (FAQ)

Can LTVP work part-time in Singapore?

To work part time in Singapore as an LTVP holder you would also need to have suitable approval from MOM. This is usually either a work permit, LOC or PLOC depending on your LTVP type.

Before looking for a part time job in Singapore, take a look at the relevant information for your LTVP type on the MOM website to make sure you’ll be able to get the appropriate permissions to work.

Can LTVP work 2 jobs?

It may not be possible to work 2 jobs as a LTVP holder. To be eligible to work with an LTVP you will need to apply for additional approval from MOM, such as getting a work pass. Work passes are only intended to be used for one single employer, which may mean you are unable to take on two positions at the same time⁶.

Get advice from MOM before you apply for your work pass to know what is allowable.

What happens if you work without approval?

It’s important to check the rules relating to working in Singapore before you get a job. Your LTVP does not entitle you to work automatically, as you will also need some approval from MOM which depends on the type of LTVP you hold. If you’re not sure what’s required you can call MOM or use their chat service to get advice based on your own unique situation.