Who can apply for an LTVP from ICA versus an LTVP from MOM?

The LTVP from the Immigration and Checkpoints Authority (ICA) is for foreign spouses, biological parents, and unmarried children of Singapore Citizens or PRs, as well as certain graduates, grandparents, or visitors giving birth in Singapore. Meanwhile, the LTVP from the Ministry of Manpower (MOM) is meant for immediate family members of Employment Pass (EP) or S Pass holders—such as common-law spouses, unmarried handicapped children above 21, and step-children under 21. Each is subject to different requirements and renewal conditions.

Can LTVP or LTVP+ holders work in Singapore?

LTVP holders are not automatically eligible to work. They must secure a separate Work Permit, S Pass, or Employment Pass from the Ministry of Manpower. In contrast, LTVP+ holders—who are typically foreign spouses of Singapore Citizens or PRs—can work more easily by obtaining a Letter of Consent (LOC) from the Ministry of Manpower. Employers hiring LTVP+ holders are not subject to foreign worker quota restrictions, making the LTVP+ a more flexible and attractive option for family integration and employment stability.

What are the healthcare benefits available to LTVP+ holders in Singapore?

LTVP+ holders are eligible for subsidised rates at public hospitals for inpatient care—comparable to those offered to Singapore Permanent Residents. This access reflects Singapore’s family-supportive policies and provides meaningful healthcare savings. LTVP holders, however, are not covered under this scheme and typically need to rely on private health insurance or out-of-pocket medical expenses.

How long can LTVP and LTVP+ holders stay in Singapore, and what are the renewal terms?

The validity of an LTVP depends on the sponsoring relationship and pass type. For ICA-issued LTVPs, validity can extend up to two years, subject to continued eligibility. MOM-issued LTVPs for dependents of work pass holders follow the principal’s pass validity. The LTVP+, on the other hand, is initially valid for three years, renewable for up to five years, depending on the marriage’s stability, family ties, and sponsor’s financial standing. Renewals are assessed individually by ICA based on updated circumstances.

Who is eligible for LTVP+?

As of 2025, LTVP+ eligibility is limited to foreign spouses or children of Singapore Citizens or Permanent Residents. Couples with at least one child who is a Singapore citizen, or where the foreign spouse is pregnant, may be considered. Other factors such as marriage duration, sponsor’s financial capacity, and good conduct of both sponsor and applicant are also evaluated. Each application is assessed individually by the ICA, with applicants generally considered more favourably if married for at least three years.

I am a LTVP/LTVP+ holder. How can I apply for a Letter of Consent (LOC)?

Eligible LTVP+ holders, typically foreign spouses or unmarried children of Singapore Citizens or PRs, can apply for a Letter of Consent (LOC) through the Ministry of Manpower to work in Singapore. The LOC allows them to be employed without requiring a separate Work Permit, and employers are not subject to foreign worker quota restrictions. Standard LTVP holders, however, must obtain a separate work pass before starting employment, highlighting the enhanced employment benefits of LTVP+.

Differences Between the Long-Term Visit Pass (LTVP) and the Long-Term Visit Pass-Plus (LTVP+)

Long Term Visit Pass

6 Dec

Written By Ho Tien

Navigating Singapore’s immigration options can be complex, especially when choosing between the Long-Term Visit Pass (LTVP) and the Long-Term Visit Pass-Plus (LTVP+). Both serve distinct purposes and offer varying benefits tailored to different groups of applicants. Here's everything you need to know about these two residency options, including a detailed comparison table to help you make an informed decision.

LTVP from the MOM

The LTVP issued by the Ministry of Manpower (MOM)is primarily designed for immediate family members of Employment Pass (EP) or S-Pass holders. These family members include:

Common-law spouses.
Unmarried handicapped children over 21.
Step-children under 21.

The LTVP allows eligible family members to reside in Singapore for up to 2 years, with renewal contingent on continued eligibility of the work pass holder. However, its benefits are relatively limited:

Employment: LTVP holders are not automatically eligible to work and must apply for a separate Work Permit or Employment Pass.
Healthcare: No specific healthcare subsidies are provided for LTVP holders, meaning they must rely on private healthcare options.
Fees: Application and issuance fees up to S$360 (S$105 for each submission, S$225 for issuance, and S$30 for Multiple Journey Visa).

LTVP from the ICA

The LTVP issued by the Immigration and Checkpoints Authority (ICA) is for:

a) Immediate family members of Singapore Permanent Residents or Singapore Citizens. These family members include:

Legally married spouses. Common-law spouses are not eligible.
Biological parents. Parent in-laws are not eligible.
Unmarried child aged below 21 born within the context of a legal marriage to, or have been legally adopted by a Singapore citizen or PR.

b) Graduate from an Institute of higher learning seeking employment in Singapore. Only graduates from schools listed in this ICA directory are eligible.

c) Parent or Grandparent of a child studying in Singapore on a Student’s Pass.

d) Visitor seeking permission to give birth in Singapore.

The application and issuance fees are much lower compared to the LTVP issued by the MOM, with fees up to $135 (S$45 for each application, S$60 for issuance of LTVP, and S$30 for a Multiple Journey Visa, if applicable).

While the LTVP offers a pathway for family members to stay close to their loved ones, its limitations on work and healthcare benefits can pose challenges for those looking to build a more stable and integrated life in Singapore.

What is the Long-Term Visit Pass-Plus (LTVP+)?

The LTVP+ is a step above the standard LTVP and is specifically tailored for foreign spouses of Singapore citizens or Permanent Residents (PRs) and this is issued only by the ICA. This pass reflects Singapore’s commitment to supporting local family units by offering enhanced benefits:

Extended Residency: The LTVP+ offers a longer initial validity of 3 years, with renewals of up to 5 years. This extended duration provides more stability for families.
Employment Opportunities: LTVP+ holders are eligible to work without needing a separate Work Permit. They can apply for jobs under a Letter of Consent (LOC), and employers are not constrained by foreign worker quotas.
Healthcare Benefits: LTVP+ holders enjoy access to subsidized healthcare, similar to Permanent Residents, for inpatient services. This can significantly reduce medical expenses for families.

These enhanced benefits make the LTVP+ a far more attractive option for foreign spouses who intend to build their lives in Singapore alongside their Singaporean partners.

LTVP+ eligibility

Couples who have at least one child who is a Singapore citizen from their marriage or where the foreign spouse is pregnant may be eligible for LTVP+. Other consideration factors may include the marriage duration, ability of the sponsor to financially support the family, and good conduct of both the sponsor and the applicant. In general, applicants may be considered more favourably for LTVP+ if they have been married for at least three years. Each application will be considered on its own merits by the ICA.

Key Differences Between LTVP and LTVP+

Let Us Simplify the Process for You

Navigating the complexities of Singapore’s residency passes can be daunting, but you don’t have to do it alone. Whether you’re considering an LTVP or LTVP+, making the right choice depends on your unique circumstances and future plans.

At E&H Immigration Consultancy, we specialize in helping individuals and families secure their stay in Singapore. Contact us today at www.eh-immigration.com to receive expert guidance and personalized solutions for your immigration needs. Let us make your journey to residency in Singapore as seamless as possible!

FAQ

As of 2025, the LTVP and LTVP+ differ mainly in eligibility, validity period, work rights, and benefits. The standard LTVP—issued by either ICA or MOM—allows family members of Singapore Citizens, PRs, or work pass holders to stay in Singapore but requires separate approval for employment. The LTVP+, issued only by ICA, is reserved for foreign spouses of Singapore Citizens or PRs and grants longer residency (three to five years), permission to work under a Letter of Consent, and subsidised public healthcare access.
The LTVP from the Immigration and Checkpoints Authority (ICA) is for foreign spouses, biological parents, and unmarried children of Singapore Citizens or PRs, as well as certain graduates, grandparents, or visitors giving birth in Singapore. Meanwhile, the LTVP from the Ministry of Manpower (MOM) is meant for immediate family members of Employment Pass (EP) or S Pass holders—such as common-law spouses, unmarried handicapped children above 21, and step-children under 21. Each is subject to different requirements and renewal conditions.
LTVP holders are not automatically eligible to work. They must secure a separate Work Permit, S Pass, or Employment Pass from the Ministry of Manpower. In contrast, LTVP+ holders—who are typically foreign spouses of Singapore Citizens or PRs—can work more easily by obtaining a Letter of Consent (LOC) from the Ministry of Manpower. Employers hiring LTVP+ holders are not subject to foreign worker quota restrictions, making the LTVP+ a more flexible and attractive option for family integration and employment stability.
LTVP+ holders are eligible for subsidised rates at public hospitals for inpatient care—comparable to those offered to Singapore Permanent Residents. This access reflects Singapore’s family-supportive policies and provides meaningful healthcare savings. LTVP holders, however, are not covered under this scheme and typically need to rely on private health insurance or out-of-pocket medical expenses.
The validity of an LTVP depends on the sponsoring relationship and pass type. For ICA-issued LTVPs, validity can extend up to two years, subject to continued eligibility. MOM-issued LTVPs for dependents of work pass holders follow the principal’s pass validity. The LTVP+, on the other hand, is initially valid for three years, renewable for up to five years, depending on the marriage’s stability, family ties, and sponsor’s financial standing. Renewals are assessed individually by ICA based on updated circumstances.
As of 2025, LTVP+ eligibility is limited to foreign spouses or children of Singapore Citizens or Permanent Residents. Couples with at least one child who is a Singapore citizen, or where the foreign spouse is pregnant, may be considered. Other factors such as marriage duration, sponsor’s financial capacity, and good conduct of both sponsor and applicant are also evaluated. Each application is assessed individually by the ICA, with applicants generally considered more favourably if married for at least three years.
Eligible LTVP+ holders, typically foreign spouses or unmarried children of Singapore Citizens or PRs, can apply for a Letter of Consent (LOC) through the Ministry of Manpower to work in Singapore. The LOC allows them to be employed without requiring a separate Work Permit, and employers are not subject to foreign worker quota restrictions. Standard LTVP holders, however, must obtain a separate work pass before starting employment, highlighting the enhanced employment benefits of LTVP+.

LTVPLTVP+Long Term Visit Pass

Ho Tien