Key Immigration Updates: Singapore's ONE Pass and Vietnam's Complex Landscape

Recent developments in Asia's immigration landscape present opportunities and challenges for global mobility professionals. Here's what you need to know about the latest changes in Singapore and Vietnam.

Singapore: ONE Pass Evolution and New Requirements

Singapore continues to position itself as a hub for global talent with its Overseas Networks & Expertise (ONE) Pass program while implementing new measures to ensure accountability. Recent data from the Ministry of Manpower reveals that over 3,000 ONE Passes were granted last year, with approximately one-sixth of recipients coming from overseas.

Key Features of the ONE Pass:

• Five-year duration with the possibility of renewal
• Targeted at top 5% of earners
• Personal pass not tied to a specific employer
• Holders are exempt from COMPASS considerations

Important Update: New Annual Notification Requirements

The Ministry of Manpower has introduced annual notification requirements for ONE Pass holders. Key points to note:

• Pass holders will receive email notifications
• One-month response window
• Comprehensive information required to confirm continued eligibility
• New focus on social contributions, including:
  • Charitable activities
  • Leadership roles
  • Mentorship initiatives

While these requirements reflect ongoing parliamentary discussions about pass-holder contributions, the Ministry maintains a balanced approach, emphasizing the importance of attracting global talent while encouraging community engagement.

Vietnam: Navigating Complex Immigration Terrain

As companies increasingly relocate operations from China to Vietnam, they face several immigration challenges that require careful planning and consideration.

Key Process Requirements:

• Extensive documentation with legalization requirements
• Mandatory police clearance certificates
• Proof of three years of relevant experience
• Position-specific experience requirements
• Labor market testing (adding 15 working days to processing)

Special Considerations for Chinese Nationals

Companies moving Chinese employees to Vietnam face additional complexities due to regional geopolitical tensions:

• Special landing visa requirements (separate from passport)
• Shorter validity periods for temporary resident certificates (one year vs. standard two years)
• More frequent renewal requirements
• Additional processing time due to separate visa documentation

Strategic Planning Recommendations

1. Build adequate lead time into relocation timelines
2. Prepare comprehensive documentation packages early
3. Account for additional processing time for Chinese nationals
4. Consider geopolitical factors in workforce planning
5. Plan for regular visa renewal cycles

As Asia's immigration landscape continues to evolve, staying informed about these changes and planning accordingly will be crucial for successful global mobility programs. Companies should work closely with their immigration providers to navigate these complex requirements effectively.

This blog post is based on insights Mark Buchanan of Fragomen shared during The View From The Top Live. You can access the complete discussion here. 

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