Singapore will introduce a new work pass aimed at attracting highly paid specialists in artificial intelligence (AI) and advanced technology roles, as part of broader updates to Singapore’s foreign workforce policies and tech talent strategy.
The move comes as AI talent demand in Singapore continues to outpace the local skills pipeline. Enterprises across finance, logistics, and advanced manufacturing are accelerating AI adoption, but many are struggling to source the specialised expertise required to scale projects.
Against this backdrop, the government will introduce an AI and tech track under the Overseas Networks and Expertise (ONE) Pass, replacing the existing Tec Pass programme. The pass will allow top global AI and technology professionals to work in Singapore for five years, renewable for another five years.
Eligibility will be limited to applicants currently working — or most recently employed — in technology companies, technology divisions, or technology venture capital firms. The new scheme is designed to attract specialists in areas Singapore sees as strategically important, including artificial intelligence, advanced computing, and quantum technologies.
Singapore introduced the broader ONE Pass work visa in 2022 to attract globally recognised professionals earning at least S$30,000 per month, or individuals with exceptional achievements in fields such as technology, research, science, or academia.
For policymakers, the AI-focused work pass reflects a familiar balancing act in Singapore’s labour and tech talent policy: keeping the economy open to specialised global expertise while continuing to develop local workforce capability.
“Foreign professionals and workers strengthen our teams, transfer knowledge and enable companies to grow,” Prime Minister Lawrence Wong said when outlining the broader foreign workforce policy updates.
For many enterprises, the policy signals how Singapore intends to address its AI talent shortage — by combining domestic skills development with targeted access to global technology talent.
