Introduction to 3 Mainstream Self-Employed Models in Singapore：Entrepreneurship · Private Investment · Family Office

Singapore offers a unique pathway to residency through the Self-Employed Employment Pass (EP). By establishing a company and appointing yourself as a senior executive, you can apply for an EP and build your future in one of the world’s most dynamic business hubs.

Depending on your goals, there are three flexible and widely recognized models to choose from:

Entrepreneurial Model – Build and Grow Your Own Business

This is the most traditional and popular route. Applicants set up a company to run a genuine business—such as trading, F&B, education, or technology—and take on a senior executive role within the company to apply for the EP.

Initial investment: Around SGD 300,000

Key requirement: Active business operations and management

Ideal for:

Entrepreneurs or SME owners with a clear business vision who are ready to operate a real company in Singapore.

EP Renewal Tip:

A yearly company revenue of SGD 150,000 or more is generally recommended. Office rental or local hiring is not mandatory unless requested during audits or renewal checks.

Private Investment Company (PIC) Model – Invest to Stay

The PIC model is a flexible option for applicants who do not plan to run a daily business but still want to obtain residency. By establishing a company that manages your personal investments, you can generate income through legitimate financial activities and appoint yourself as an executive to qualify for the EP.

Recommended capital: Starting from USD 1–2 million, depending on investment risk and return

Management requirement: Minimal day-to-day operations

Ideal for:

High-net-worth individuals seeking a low-maintenance path to Singapore residency via wealth management and private investments.

EP Renewal Tip:

An annual investment income of SGD 125,000 or more is recommended. As with the entrepreneurial model, office rental and hiring are optional unless requested during compliance checks.

Family Office Model – Legacy, Wealth & Relocation in One

For ultra-high-net-worth families looking to consolidate global assets and secure long-term relocation, the Singapore Family Office model offers a comprehensive solution. With at least SGD 5 million in investable assets, applicants can set up a family office, manage wealth under Singapore’s financial ecosystem, and gain access to government-endorsed lifetime tax exemption benefits.

Minimum assets under management: SGD 5 million

Operating requirement: Annual spending of SGD 200,000, including salaries for EP holders

Ideal for:

Families focused on intergenerational wealth planning, global tax efficiency, and multi-member relocation under one strategy.

EP Renewal Tip:

Maintain the investment threshold and appoint a licensed Singapore asset manager as your external advisor to ensure continued compliance.

Each of these three models provides a strategic and legitimate path to Singapore residency while aligning with your personal, business, or financial goals. Whether you're launching a business, growing your investments, or managing generational wealth—Singapore welcomes you with a structure that fits.