Singapore consistently attracts high net worth individuals (HNWIs) from across Asia and beyond. Its political stability, low tax rates, internationally recognised legal system, and proximity to Southeast Asian markets make it one of the world’s premier relocation destinations for wealthy individuals and their families. This guide covers every official pathway available in 2026.

Why High Net Worth Individuals Choose Singapore

  • No capital gains tax — gains from investments, property, and shares are not taxed
  • No estate or inheritance tax — abolished in 2008
  • Low personal income tax rates — top marginal rate of 24% for chargeable income above S$1 million
  • Extensive double tax agreement network — over 90 DTAs reduce withholding tax on cross-border income
  • MAS-regulated financial ecosystem — robust oversight of fund management and family office structures
  • Political and social stability — consistently ranked among the world’s safest cities

Pathway 1: Employment Pass — For HNWIs in Active Business Roles

If you plan to actively manage a Singapore business, the Employment Pass (EP) is the most straightforward option. The EP is a work visa for foreign professionals earning above the qualifying salary threshold — currently S$5,600 per month (higher for the financial services sector). HNWIs who serve as directors of their own Singapore company commonly use this route. Key considerations: the company must be a genuine operating entity, COMPASS scoring applies from September 2023, and dependants can apply for Dependant’s Passes if the EP holder earns at least S$6,000 per month. For foreigners incorporating a Singapore company as the vehicle for EP sponsorship, see our guide on Singapore company registration for foreigners.

Pathway 2: Global Investor Programme (GIP) — Direct PR for Investors

The Global Investor Programme (GIP), administered by EDB, grants Permanent Residency directly to qualifying investors without prior Singapore employment. Three investment options are available:

  • Option A — Business Investment: Invest at least S$10 million in a new or existing Singapore business
  • Option B — GIP Fund: Invest at least S$25 million in an EDB-approved GIP fund investing in Singapore-based companies
  • Option C — Family Office: Establish a single family office with at least S$200 million AUM, of which at least S$50 million is invested in Singapore assets

GIP applicants must also demonstrate a substantial business track record — typically managing a business with annual turnover above S$200 million.

Pathway 3: ONE Pass — For Exceptional Talents

The Overseas Networks and Expertise (ONE) Pass is a five-year work pass for exceptional global talent, allowing holders to work for multiple employers concurrently or start a business in Singapore. Qualifying criteria include a last drawn fixed monthly salary of at least S$30,000, or outstanding achievements in arts, culture, sports, academia, or research. Spouses of ONE Pass holders automatically receive a Letter of Consent to work in Singapore.

Pathway 4: Tech.Pass — For Technology Leaders

Suitable for HNWIs who have built or led major technology companies. Applicants must meet at least two of: (1) last drawn fixed monthly salary of at least S$22,500; (2) at least five years of experience leading a tech company valued at US$500 million or which raised US$30 million or more; (3) at least five years as a founder of a tech company at the same valuation threshold.

Pathway 5: Single Family Office with MAS Section 13O / 13U Exemption

For UHNWIs seeking to manage their wealth in Singapore, establishing a Single Family Office (SFO) with a tax exemption under Section 13O (minimum S$20 million AUM) or Section 13U (minimum S$50 million AUM) of the Income Tax Act is increasingly popular. The SFO structure typically involves a Singapore-incorporated fund entity and a fund management entity. For a complete guide to MAS SFO notification requirements, see our article on the MAS Single Family Office Class Exemption 2026. For those considering a VCC as the fund vehicle, see our comparison of VCC vs Cayman SPC as a fund domicile.

Pathway 6: Long-Term Visit Pass for Family Members

Family members of Singapore PRs or citizens, and dependants of EP or ONE Pass holders, can apply for a Long-Term Visit Pass (LTVP) for legal residence without a separate work authorisation. For full eligibility requirements and the application process, see our LTVP Singapore 2026 guide.

Tax Planning Considerations on Arrival

Singapore taxes residents on income sourced in Singapore only. Foreign-sourced income (dividends, investment gains) generally remains outside Singapore’s tax net. With no capital gains tax and no inheritance tax, Singapore is highly attractive for wealth management. Personal income tax rates are progressive to a maximum of 24% — see the IRAS individual income tax rate table for the full schedule. Early tax planning before arrival, particularly on the remittance of foreign-sourced income and on the structuring of asset-holding vehicles, is strongly recommended.

Practical Steps: From Decision to Residency

  1. Determine which pathway best matches your wealth profile, business background, and long-term plans
  2. Incorporate a Singapore entity if required (for EP, GIP Option A, or SFO structures)
  3. Engage an MAS-licensed fund manager or service provider if pursuing GIP Option C or SFO tax exemptions
  4. Apply for the relevant pass or PR scheme through the appropriate Singapore government portal
  5. Review your tax position early — structuring before arrival is far more efficient than restructuring afterwards

How Raffles Corporate Services Can Help

Our team assists HNWIs and family offices with Singapore company incorporation, nominee director services, corporate secretarial compliance, and coordination with MAS-licensed fund managers. We are a one-stop corporate services provider for families and entrepreneurs establishing a Singapore base. Contact Raffles Corporate Services at [email protected] or call, SMS, or WhatsApp +65 8501 7133.

— The Editorial Team, Raffles Corporate Services