Singapore Startup Visa

The Singapore Start-up Visa Program is designed for entrepreneurs with innovative ideas who will spur economic growth and entails consequent commitment from a designated organization. This program requires a financial commitment of at least USD 230,000. Successful applicants are granted a renewable visa and become eligible to apply for permanent residency after 2 years.

Singapore Startup Visa Benefits

Residency and Family Inclusion

Ability to bring dependents after 12 months subject to conditions (spouse, unmarried children under 21, parents).

Travel and Quality of Life

Live and work in Singapore on their venture. After obtaining permanent residency, the applicant is free to take up any employment.

Ease of Access

  • Renewable Start-up Visa (SUV) (subject to conditions).
  • Singapore permanent Residency (PR) for successful applicants after 2 years of SUV.
  • Attractive tax regime: low taxes, no tax on foreign income, capital gains or inheritance.
  • No minimum residency requirement for SUV (although over half a year is recommended for PR).
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Singapore Startup Visa Requirements

  • SUV gives immigrant entrepreneurs who will spur economic growth the right to live and work in Singapore on their venture.
  • Intent to establish and own a Singapore private limited company.
  • Incubation with an entity recognized by Singapore Authorities.

Conditions for bringing dependents to Singapore:

Company’s latest annual audited accounts showing:

  • At least minimum annual spending of SGD 100,000 (Approx USD 77,000) – Calculated by deducting the following from the total operating expenses: (i) Expenses due to purchase of royalties, franchise and technical know-how fees from overseas companies; (ii) expenses due to outsourcing of work overseas; (iii) total remuneration to company’s SUV holders.
  • And Employment of 3 LQS – Full time Singaporean or PR earning at least SGD1,400 (Approx  USD 1,080) each, or 1 PME – Singaporean or PR professional, manager or executive earning at least SGD 3,900 (USD3,000) per month. (This is for spouse and children under 21. Higher thresholds apply for parents).

Conditions to renew Start Up Visa pending PR:

  • SUV may be renewed pending PR or if applicant does not wish to apply for PR, subject to meeting specified minimum annual spending and local employment requirements.
  • Male main applicant applying for PR will be exempted from National Service. However, other Singapore Citizens and Permanent Residents (for instance, male spouse of main applicant or children) may be required to serve.

Singapore Startup Visa Process

Due Diligence And Application

  • Client information intake process.
  • Meet incubator to discuss the business.
  • Submission of immigration application forms, supporting documents, and fees.

Approval And Investment

  • Efficient processing: Typically, 8 weeks for SUV; and 6 months to process PR after 12-18 months of local business activity.
  • Within 30 days following approval of SUV, establish a Singapore private limited company.

Residency

  • A year after issuance of SUV: renew SUV, and submit applications to bring dependents to Singapore.
  • 12-18 months after issuance of SUV: apply for PR (for applicant, legally married spouse and children).

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With over 30 years of immigration experience, each of Harvey Law Group’s lawyers carefully studies each client’s needs, resources and determines the immigration solution that best aligns with our client’s vision and values.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is Singapore Startup Visa?

The Singapore Startup Visa program supports entrepreneurs with innovative ideas to establish businesses that can drive economic growth in Singapore.

Who can apply for Singapore Startup Visa?

Entrepreneurs who intend to establish and own a private limited company in Singapore and can secure incubation from a recognized entity may apply for the Singapore Startup Visa.

Why choose Singapore for startups?

Singapore attracts startups with its robust economy, strategic location, favorable tax regime, and strong legal protections.

How long is the processing time for Singapore Startup Visa (SUV)?

The typical processing time for the Singapore Startup Visa is 8 weeks; permanent residency applications are processed within 6 months after 12-18 months of local business activity.

Who qualifies as a dependent in the Singapore Startup Visa application?

Dependents in the Singapore Startup Visa application include the spouse, unmarried children under 21, and parents under specific conditions.

What are the conditions for bringing dependents to Singapore?

Conditions for bringing dependents on a Singapore Startup Visa include minimum annual spending of SGD 100,000 (Approx USD 77,000)and employment of three local qualifying staff or one professional, manager, or executive.

What are the conditions for renewing Singapore Startup Visa pending PR?

Renewal of the Singapore Startup Visa pending permanent residency requires meeting annual spending thresholds and local employment conditions.

What benefits does permanent residence status offer in Singapore?

Permanent residency in Singapore offers the right to live and work indefinitely, freedom to change employers, and eligibility for public education and healthcare benefits.

Is it necessary to travel or reside in Singapore during the Startup Visa application process?

Applicants do not need to reside in Singapore during the Singapore Startup Visa application process, but a visit is required for biometric data.

Wll the applicants and their dependants are required to serve National service if applying for PR in Singapore Startup Visa?

Male main applicants for permanent residency under the Singapore Startup Visa are exempt from National Service; other male dependents may be required to serve.