MOM Letter of Consent (LOC) Application in Singapore: Work & Business Explained
Are you a Dependant’s Pass (DP) holder or a Long-Term Visit Pass (LTVP) holder in Singapore eager to contribute to the workforce or even launch your own business? To legally engage in employment or operate a business in Singapore, you’ll likely need a Letter of Consent (LOC) from the Ministry of Manpower (MOM).
This comprehensive, up-to-date guide dives into every aspect of the MOM Letter Of Consent LOC Application process, eligibility criteria, and crucial considerations for both employees and business owners. Our goal is to provide you with the most accurate and helpful information, drawing on the latest regulations for 2025, and highlighting how expert assistance from WORKPASS PTE LTD can streamline your journey.
Letter Of Consent Application Fee
- Pre-application information and advising on Singapore Letter Of Consent
- Filing of Letter Of Consent Application
- Tracking Letter Of Consent application status while under processing
- Liaising with Direct MOM officer in charge, if required
- Responding to MOM’s requests for additional information, if any
- Arranging for issuance of Letter Of Consent upon in-principle approval (IPA)
What is a Letter of Consent (LOC) in Singapore?
An LOC is an official document issued by the Ministry of Manpower (MOM) that allows specific pass holders in Singapore to work or conduct business legally without needing a separate work pass (like an Employment Pass, S Pass, or Work Permit). The LOC primarily serves:
- Dependant’s Pass (DP) holders: These are spouses and unmarried children (under 21) of individuals holding an Employment Pass, S Pass, or EntrePass in Singapore.
- Selected Long-Term Visit Pass (LTVP) and Long-Term Visit Pass-Plus (LTVP+) holders: This largely pertains to spouses and unmarried children (under 21) of Singapore Citizens (SC) or Permanent Residents (PR).
Key characteristics of the LOC for DP Business Owners:
- Tied to Your Dependant Pass (DP): The LOC’s validity is directly linked to your underlying Dependant Pass. It automatically ceases if your DP is cancelled or expires.
- No Foreign Worker Quota/Levy: Your employment under the LOC does not count towards your company’s foreign worker quota, nor does it incur foreign worker levies. This makes it a cost-effective option for your business.
- Company-Initiated Application: You cannot apply for the LOC as an individual. Your own ACRA-registered company (as your employer) or WORKPASS PTE LTD must submit the letter of consent application on your behalf through MOM’s online portal.
Higher Approval Rate, Faster Processing Time!
Do You Need an LOC to Work or Run a Business in Singapore?
Yes, if you fall into the categories above and want to be employed or operate a registered business in Singapore, obtaining a valid LOC is generally mandatory. Working or operating a business without the required LOC or a valid work pass is illegal and carries severe penalties for both the individual and the employing company or business owner.
MOM LOC Application Process: Key Steps & Requirements for Employment
For Dependant’s Pass holders seeking employment, your prospective employer or a MOM-licensed employment agency typically initiates the application for the Letter of Consent.
Your Employer’s Role in the LOC Application:
Your Singapore-registered employer usually submits the LOC application on your behalf. Alternatively, engage a MOM-licensed employment agency, WORKPASS PTE LTD, to manage the application process. Whether directly by the employer or through an agency, they’ll need to provide:
- Your personal details as the applicant (full name, passport details, DP number).
- Comprehensive details of the job role you’ll undertake.
- Your educational qualifications and relevant work experience.
- Your current Dependant’s Pass details.
General Eligibility for LOC (Employment – as of 2025):
- Valid Dependant’s Pass (DP): Your DP must be current and have sufficient validity remaining (ideally at least 3 months).
- Confirmed Job Offer: You must have a confirmed employment offer from a legitimate Singapore-registered company.
- No Quota or Levy: For DP holders, employers generally aren’t subjected to foreign worker quotas or levies when hiring an LOC holder, making this an attractive option for companies.
- Fair Employment Practices: MOM assesses the offered salary and the nature of the work to ensure it aligns with Singapore’s fair employment guidelines.
Letter of Consent (LOC) for Dependant’s Pass Holders Who Are Business Owners
Singapore welcomes entrepreneurial spirit! If you’re a Dependant’s Pass holder with a business idea, you can apply for an LOC to legally run your own company. This pathway allows you to operate your business without needing a separate work visa like the EntrePass, which has different and often stricter criteria.
Key Requirements for DP Holders Operating a Business with an LOC (as of 2025):
Valid Dependant’s Pass (DP) Holder: You must possess a current Dependant’s Pass.
Business Structure: You must be either:
- A sole proprietor,
- A partner in a partnership, or
- A company director with at least 30% shareholding in a Singapore-registered company. (Ensure your business is registered with ACRA – Accounting and Corporate Regulatory Authority).
Genuine Business Operations: Your company must be genuinely operating and actively conducting business activities in Singapore. Shell companies or those established solely for the purpose of obtaining an LOC aren’t permitted.
- Local Employment Contribution (Crucial for Renewal): To renew your LOC as a business owner, your company must show contribution to local employment. This typically means hiring at least one local Singaporean Citizen or Permanent Resident employee who earns at least the prevailing Local Qualifying Salary (LQS) and receives CPF contributions for a minimum of three months. It’s highly advisable to have a clear plan for this from the outset.
- Economic Contribution: The business activities should genuinely contribute to Singapore’s economy.
Application Process for DP Holders as Business Owners
The application for an LOC for business owners is also submitted through MOM’s EP Online portal. As the DP holder and business representative, you’ll need to provide:
- Comprehensive details of your company (ACRA registration, detailed business activities, UEN).
- Your specific role within the company and your percentage of shareholding.
- Your current Dependant’s Pass details.
- Request MOM Approval: Request approval to apply for a Letter of Consent for a Dependant’s Pass holder to operate a business
LOC for Long-Term Visit Pass (LTVP/LTVP+) Holders: A Key Distinction
For most LTVP/LTVP+ holders, the ability to work in Singapore has been streamlined.
- Pre-Approved Letter of Consent (PLOC): Spouses and unmarried children (under 21) of Singapore Citizens (SC) or Permanent Residents (PR) who hold an LTVP or LTVP+ are often granted a Pre-Approved Letter of Consent (PLOC) by the Immigration & Checkpoints Authority (ICA) directly when they apply for or renew their LTVP/LTVP+.
- No Separate MOM Application Needed (for PLOC): If you receive a PLOC from ICA, you don’t need to apply for a separate LOC from MOM. This PLOC allows you to seek employment freely in Singapore. Learn more about the PLOC on MOM’s website.
- Employer’s Responsibility (for PLOC holders): Employers hiring a PLOC holder simply need to verify the PLOC’s validity through MOM’s EP Online portal before offering employment.
- Other LTVP Holders: If you’re an LTVP holder who doesn’t qualify for or receive a PLOC, you’d typically need to meet the criteria for a standard work pass (e.g., Employment Pass, S Pass, or Work Permit) to be legally employed in Singapore.
Required Documents for Your LOC Application (General)
While your employer or you (as a business owner) will manage the online submission, be prepared to provide these documents:
- Clear copy of your Dependant’s Pass or Long-Term Visit Pass (front and back).
- Copy of your passport biodata page (showing your photo, name, and passport number).
- Scanned copies of your highest educational certificates and relevant academic transcripts.
- An updated Resume/Curriculum Vitae (CV) detailing your work history.
- Any professional licenses or certifications pertinent to your job or business.
- For business owners: ACRA business registration details, company profile, and potentially your latest financial statements or detailed business plans.
Processing Time for MOM LOC Applications (as of June 2025)
MOM LOC application processing times can vary, but generally, most applications are processed efficiently:
- Typical Processing Time: Expect a processing period ranging from 1 week to 4 weeks for most straightforward cases. Some online applications might even see outcomes within 7-14 working days.
- Factors Affecting Time: The complexity of the application, the completeness of submitted documents, and MOM’s current workload can influence processing duration. Always refer to the latest updates on the official MOM website for the most accurate timelines.
Important Considerations Once You Have Your LOC
- LOC is Tied to Your Specific Role/Business: Your LOC is valid only for the specific job with the stated employer, or for the specific business you’re operating. If you change jobs, your new employer must apply for a new LOC. If your business ceases operations, your LOC will be cancelled.
- Dependant’s Pass Validity: The validity of your LOC is directly linked to the expiry date of your main Dependant’s Pass or LTVP/LTVP+. Should your main pass expire or be cancelled, your LOC will automatically become invalid.
- Compliance with Singapore Laws: As an LOC holder, you’re expected to fully abide by all Singapore laws and regulations.
- Renewal Process: Your employer typically initiates the LOC renewal process if you continue in your role. For business owners, you’ll be responsible for initiating the renewal, ensuring your business continues to meet the criteria (especially local employment) at the time of renewal.
Common Mistakes to Avoid During Your LOC Application
Applying for an LOC, while seemingly straightforward, can have pitfalls. Avoiding these common mistakes can prevent delays or rejections:
- Incomplete Documentation: Missing even one required document can halt your application. Always double-check the checklist provided by MOM or your agency.
- Inaccurate Information: Ensure all details (personal particulars, educational qualifications, employment history) are accurate and consistent with your official documents. Discrepancies can raise red flags.
- Lack of Genuine Business Activity (for business owners): For DP holders applying as business owners, MOM scrutinizes the legitimacy and active operations of the company. A lack of demonstrable business activity or clear plans for local contribution can lead to rejection.
- Late Submission: While there’s no strict “late fee” for initial LOCs, delays can impact your ability to start work or operate your business as planned. Submit applications well in advance.
- Failure to Meet Local Employment Quota (for business owner renewals): This is a critical point for business owners. Not meeting the local hire requirement with CPF contributions will likely result in renewal rejection. Start planning for this early.
- Misunderstanding LTVP vs. PLOC: Some LTVP holders mistakenly apply for an LOC when they either qualify for a PLOC from ICA or actually need a full work pass. Clarify your specific situation.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) Letter of Consent (LOC)
A Letter of Consent (LOC) is an official document from the Ministry of Manpower (MOM) that allows certain long-term pass holders, primarily Dependant’s Pass (DP) holders and eligible Long-Term Visit Pass (LTVP/LTVP+) holders, to work or operate a business legally in Singapore without needing a separate work pass like an Employment Pass or S Pass.
Generally, Dependant’s Pass (DP) holders who wish to take up employment or operate a business, and specific Long-Term Visit Pass (LTVP/LTVP+) holders who do not have a Pre-Approved Letter of Consent (PLOC) from ICA, will need an LOC. Spouses and unmarried children (under 21) of Singapore Citizens/Permanent Residents holding an LTVP/LTVP+ often receive a PLOC directly from ICA, which functions similarly.
Yes, a Dependant’s Pass holder can apply for an LOC to operate their own business in Singapore. They must be a sole proprietor, partner, or a director with at least 30% shareholding in a Singapore-registered company. For renewal, the business typically needs to employ at least one local Singaporean Citizen/PR employee earning the Local Qualifying Salary.
An LOC is generally applied for via MOM by an employer (for DP holders) or the business owner (for DP business owners). A Pre-Approved Letter of Consent (PLOC) is typically issued directly by the Immigration & Checkpoints Authority (ICA) to eligible LTVP/LTVP+ holders (specifically spouses/children of SC/PRs) when they are granted or renew their LTVP. If you have a PLOC, you don’t need a separate LOC from MOM to work.
MOM LOC application processing times generally range from 1 to 4 weeks for most straightforward cases submitted via EP Online. Some online applications might be approved faster (e.g., within 7-14 working days), but it can take longer if additional information is required.
Your LOC is tied to your specific employer and job, or to the specific business you operate. If you change jobs, your new employer must apply for a new LOC. If you cease employment or close your business, your existing LOC will no longer be valid and should be cancelled.
Yes, WORKPASS PTE LTD is a MOM-licensed employment agency that specializes in assisting with LOC applications for both Dependant’s Pass holders seeking employment and those looking to start their own businesses. We provide expert guidance, meticulous document preparation, and streamlined submission services.
Let’s Get Started!
Successfully navigating the specific eligibility criteria, precise documentation, and online submission processes for MOM-processed Letters of Consent for Dependant’s Pass holders and eligible LTVP holders can be a significant challenge. At WORKPASS PTE LTD, we are your dedicated experts in Singapore work pass and related immigration solutions.
Our commitment to your successful LOC application is underpinned by:
- Deep MOM Expertise: We possess in-depth, up-to-the-minute knowledge of all MOM policies and specific LOC requirements for Dependant’s Pass holders (whether employed or as business owners) and eligible LTVP holders. Your application will always be compliant with the latest regulations.
- Meticulous Application Preparation: Our experienced team meticulously reviews all your documents and information, ensuring accuracy and completeness. This significantly minimizes the risk of rejections or delays due to errors.
- Streamlined Process Management: From detailed eligibility assessment and precise document gathering to seamless online submission via EP Online and diligent follow-up with MOM, we guide you through every step, saving you invaluable time and stress.
- Strategic & Personalized Advice: We offer tailored guidance for your unique situation, proactively identifying potential challenges and providing best practices for a successful outcome, simplifying your journey to work or run a business in Singapore.
Ready to secure your Letter of Consent and embrace opportunities in Singapore?
Contact WORKPASS PTE LTD today for a professional consultation and let our expertise guide your LOC application with confidence.