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Overseas Visa Application

With the increase in international business transactions, visas have become an important part of every business person.

However , visa application requirements, procedures and policies vary from country to country and can be a tedious and time-consuming task for applicants.

Therefore, professional visa agency services have become the first choice of many people. The following only provides an introduction to visas in Asian countries such as Singapore, Japan, China , Vietnam and the Philippines.

I.Singapore visa application

With its stable economic environment, preferential tax policies and superior geographical location, Singapore has become an ideal investment location for global companies, attracting many start-ups to set up companies here. Many companies will choose to set up companies in Singapore to more effectively expand into the Southeast Asian market.

What are the types of Singapore visas?

Employment Pass(EP)

S Pass(SP)

Work Permit(WP)

Employment Pass(EP)
The Employment Pass (EP) is a work visa for professionals, managers, executives, and highly skilled foreign individuals, suitable for applicants with high salaries and professional qualifications. Since it is common for applicants to apply after establishing a company in Singapore under the title of a director or investor, it is also known as a self-employment visa.

What are the requirements to apply for the Singapore Employment Pass (EP)?
The Singapore Ministry of Manpower (MOM) implemented new Employment Pass (EP) regulations in 2025. The EP application process is now divided into two stages. In the first stage, applicants must meet the minimum salary requirements for EP eligibility. In the second stage, applicants are required to pass the COMPASS (Complementarity Assessment Framework) assessment. COMPASS evaluates applicants based on key factors including salary level, educational qualifications, workforce diversity, and support for local employment. A minimum score of 40 points is required for approval.

a. Minimum salary Requirements :
Non-financial sectors: Minimum monthly salary of SGD 5,600, increasing progressively with age from 23 years old, up to SGD 10,700 for applicants aged 45 and above.
Non Financial Fsector : Minimum monthly salary of SGD 6,200 increasing progressively with age from 23 years old, up to 11,800 for applicants aged 45 and above.
b. COMPASS Assessment Criteria :
EP applicants must accumulate at least 40 points under the COMPASS framework.
The assessment consists of four Foundational Criteria and two Bonus Criteria:Foundational Criteria
1. Salary : Assesses whether the applicant’s salary exceeds that of local Singaporean PMETs (Professionals, Managers, Executives, and Technicians) in the same sector and age group.
2. Qualifications : Assesses whether the applicant holds a university degree or equivalent professional qualification recognized by MOM.
3. Diversity : Evaluates the nationality diversity of the company’s PMET workforce.
4. Support for Local Employment: Evaluates the proportion of local Singaporean PMETs employed by the company.
Bonus Criteria
5. Skills Bonus : The position falls under Singapore’s Shortage Occupation List.
6. Strategic Economic Priorities Bonus: The role or industry aligns with Singapore’s strategic economic development priorities.
*COMPASS Exemptions
Applicants may be exempted from COMPASS assessment under the following circumstances :Monthly salary exceeding SGD 22,500.Intra-company transferees under specific arrangements.Short-term employment of less.
How long is the validity of Singapore EP?
The visa is valid for 2 years and can be renewed. The validity period is 3 years.
Eligibility to apply for PR (Permanent Residency): Yes.
Quota requirements: None.

Singapore EP Application Overview:
1. Prepare required documents (ID, academic certificates, company information, etc.)
2. Submit application andobtain EP approval.
3. Enter Singapore to register residential address and complete fingerprint registration.
4. Receive a two-year Employment Pass card.

S Pass (SP)
The S Pass (SP) is a work pass designed for foreign professionals with mid-level skills.
It applies to applicants whose salary levels and qualifications fall between the Employment Pass (EP) and the general Work Permit (WP), and is commonly used in technical, manufacturing, service, and support-related professional roles.

Eligibility Requirements for S Pass
a. Minimum Salary Requirements.Non-financial sectors : at least SGD 3,150 per month. Financial sector: at least SGD 3,650 per month.These salary thresholds apply to renewal applications for pass holders with qualifications recognized by Singapore authorities, whose pass expiry dates fall between 1 September 2025 and 31 August 2026.For new applications submitted on or after 1 September 2025, or renewals with expiry dates on or after 1 September 2026, the applicable salary requirements are as follows:
Non-financial sectors: at least SGD 3,300 per month.
(progressively increasing from age 23, up to SGD 4,800 for candidates aged 45 and above).
Financial sector: at least SGD 3,800 per month.
(progressively increasing from age 23, up to SGD 5,650 for candidates aged 45 and above).

How long is the validity of Singapore SP visa? The visa is valid for 2 years and can be renewed. The validity period is 3 years.
Eligibility to apply for PR (Permanent Residency): Yes.
Quota requirements: The number of S Pass employees a company is allowed to hire is subject to quota limits, with a maximum of 15%-18% of the total workforce.

Work Permit (WP)
The Work Permit (WP) is issued by Singapore’s Ministry of Manpower (MOM) for general technical workers, commonly employed in sectors such as construction, manufacturing, and services.

What are the requirements to apply for the Singapore Work Permit (WP)?
a. Salary requirements: There are no specific salary requirements, but employers must comply with minimum wage regulations.
How long is the validity of Singapore WP visa? The visa is valid for 2 years and can be renewed.
Eligibility to apply for PR (Permanent Residency): No.
Quota requirements: The quota for WP holders varies depending on the industry.

II.Japan visa application

As Japan’s position in the global economy continues to rise, an increasing number of foreign professionals and entrepreneurs are choosing to develop their careers, invest, and operate businesses in Japan. Among the most common and important visa categories are the Work Visa and the Business Manager Visa, both of which provide eligible applicants with a legal pathway to work and conduct business in Japan

What are the types of visas in Japan?

1.Business Manager Visa
This visa allows foreign nationals to legally engage in business operations and company management activities in Japan. To obtain this visa, applicants must meet specific eligibility requirements. According to the latest revisions announced by the Ministry of Justice of Japan, certain provisions related to the “Business Manager” status of residence have been updated, and the new regulations will take effect from October 16, 2025.

What are the application requirements?
a. The company must have a minimum paid-in capital or investment amount of JPY 30 million.
b. The company must employ at least one full-time employee.The employee must be either a Japanese national or a foreign national holding long-term residence status such as Permanent Resident or Long-Term Resident (short-term visa holders are not counted).
c. The company must have a physical business office or operating premises (virtual offices or residential addresses alone are not acceptable).
d. Management experience or academic qualification: the applicant must have at least three years of management experience, or hold a Master’s degree or higher in a field relevant to the business.
e. Japanese language proficiency: either the applicant or the full-time employee must demonstrate a sufficient level of Japanese proficiency (e.g., JLPT N2 / CEFR B2 or above).
f. The business plan must be specific and detailed, and reviewed by professionals or consultants to demonstrate feasibility.

This is your Visa

NO.

Item

Current Standards

Revised Regulations

①

Capital

JPY 5 million

A minimum investment of JPY 30 million

②

Experience / Educational Background (for Business Manager)

None.

At least three years of experience in business management, or possession of a master’s degree or higher in a field related to business administration or the relevant industry.

③

Employment Requirement

None (However, the capital requirement of 5 million yen may be substituted by employing two or more full-time employees in Japan.)

Must employ at least one full-time staff member in Japan.

④

Japanese Language Proficiency

None.

Either the applicant or one of the full-time employees must possess a sufficient level of Japanese language proficiency.

⑤

Expert Confirmation for Status of Residence Review

None.

For new business plans, the plan must be reviewed and confirmed by a person or organization with recognized business expertise (excluding large-scale corporations such as listed companies).

Current Standards

Capital : JPY 5 million

Experience / Educational Background (for Business Manager):None.

Revised Regulations: None (However, the capital requirement of 5 million yen may be substituted by employing two or more full-time employees in Japan.)

Japanese Language Proficiency:None.

Expert Confirmation for Status of Residence Review:None.

Revised Regulations

Capital :A minimum investment of JPY 30 million

Experience / Educational Background (for Business Manager):
At least three years of experience in business management, or possession of a master’s degree or higher in a field related to business administration or the relevant industry.

Employment Requirement:Must employ at least one full-time staff member in Japan.

Japanese Language Proficiency:
Either the applicant or one of the full-time employees must possess a sufficient level of Japanese language proficiency.

Expert Confirmation for Status of Residence Review:
For new business plans, the plan must be reviewed and confirmed by a person or organization with recognized business expertise (excluding large-scale corporations such as listed companies).

How long is the Japan Business Manager Visa valid for?
The validity period of a Japan work visa may vary depending on the applicant’s circumstances, and is typically one year. Depending on the type of work and the applicant’s profile, the visa may also be granted for three years or five years, and renewal can be applied for before the expiration date.
*If the applicant is unable to meet the JPY 30 million capital requirement and the JLPT N2 language requirement at the initial stage, the Startup Visa may be considered. This is a transitional visa provided by Japan’s designated National Strategic Special Zones (e.g., Tokyo, Fukuoka). It allows applicants 6 months to 1 year to prepare for business establishment in Japan (such as opening a bank account and fundraising), after which the applicant may switch to the formal Business Manager Visa.

-Notes:-

a. Foreign nationals who establish and participate in the management of a company in Japan must hold a valid status of residence in Japan.
b. It is not permitted to start a business under a work visa or student visa. Therefore, obtaining a Business Manager Visa is necessary.
c. Without a business plan of sufficient scale and substance, it is difficult to obtain a Business Manager Visa.

2. Engineer / Specialist in Humanities /International Services Visa (Work Visa)
This visa category applies to foreign nationals engaged in professional work in Japan, including engineers and other specialized professionals.

What are the application requirements?
a. Background and work experience: applicants typically must hold a university degree, or have relevant work experience in the field of application.
b. Employment contract: applicants must have a formal employment contract with a company in Japan. Therefore, obtaining a Business Manager Visa is necessary.
c. Technical qualifications: depending on the job category, specific qualifications or technical certifications may be required.
How long is a general Japan work visa valid for?
The validity period is generally 1 to 5 years, depending on the job category. Renewals are permitted ; however, the extension period cannot be specified by the applicant and will be determined by the immigration examiner.

3. Highly Skilled Professional (HSP) Visa
The Highly Skilled Professional (HSP) visa is designed for individuals with advanced academic qualifications, high income, and those who can contribute significantly to Japan’s economy. It offers an accelerated pathway toward permanent residency.

What are the application requirements?
According to the regulations announced by the Immigration Services Agency of Japan, applicants may apply if they achieve 70 points or above under the Highly Skilled Professional Points System.The scoring criteria include: academic background, work experience, annual income, age, and additional bonus factors (such as global university ranking, JLPT N2 certification, graduation from a Japanese university, etc.).
How long is the visa valid for?
For HSP, the initial period of stay may be granted for up to 5 years (commonly issued as 1 year or 3 years depending on the application details and points assessment).
*Special Highly Skilled Professional (J-Skip): In addition to the points-based system, applicants may qualify for the HSP visa without points calculation if they meet either of the following conditions:
A Master’s degree with an annual income of JPY 20 million or more, or 10 years of work experience with an annual income of JPY 20 million or more(For the Business Manager category: 5 years of experience with an annual income of JPY 40 million or more).
Applicants meeting the above criteria may obtain the HSP visa directly.

4. Dependent Visa (DP)
Japan’s “Dependent” status of residence (Kazoku Taizai) is granted to the spouse and children of foreign nationals who hold valid work-related residence statuses (such as Engineer/Specialist in Humanities/International Services or Highly Skilled Professional).It allows eligible family members to reside in Japan together with the principal visa holder.

Eligibility requirements?
a. Applicant Qualification: The applicant must be the legally married spouse or minor child of a foreign national holding a valid Japanese residence status (e.g., work visa, student visa, or professional visa).Parents and siblings are generally not eligible.
b. Financial Requirement: The principal visa holder must demonstrate stable income and sufficient financial capacity to support the dependent’s living expenses and accommodation in Japan. There is no fixed salary threshold; applications are reviewed on a case-by-case basis.
c. Required Documents: Marriage certificate, birth certificate (or adoption certificate), copy of the principal applicant’s residence card and passport, proof of income, and proof of residence. In most cases, a Certificate of Eligibility (COE) must be obtained prior to visa issuance.
Period of Stay
The dependent’s period of stay is generally aligned with that of the principal visa holder,typically ranging from 6 months, 1 year, 3 years, to 5 years. Renewal applications may be submitted before expiration.

III.China visa application

The main visa type for foreigners working in China is the Z visa. You must first apply to the local competent authority to obtain a work permit before submitting a Z visa application.

What are the requirements to apply for the Chinese work visa?
A. Work permit: Formal employment permit issued by the local competent authority in China.
B. Valid passport: valid for at least six months.
C. Health certificate: Health certificate issued by a designated medical institution.
D. Other documents: Depending on the specific situation, academic certificates, work experience certificates, etc. may be required.
How long is the validity of a China Work Visa?
The Z visa typically allows applicants to stay in China for 30 days. During this period, applicants need to coordinate with their employer to obtain a temporary residence permit, which allows them to stay in China for at least 90 days and up to a maximum of 5 years

IV.Vietnam work visa application

For enterprises, Vietnam work visas are never a single document issue, but are also intertwined with whether to complete Vietnam Company Registration The following will analyze the common types of medium- and long-term visas and residences in Vietnam, allowing companies and foreign employees to quickly grasp the key points of application.

Medium- and long-term visas commonly applied for by foreigners in Vietnam

Investment visa and work visa application

Investment visa (DT/Investment/Investor Visa)
Investment visa DT is a type of visa used for “foreign investors or shareholders”, and is a visa for operators, not employees. Only those who have truly completed the capital contribution and shareholder information registration can be recognized as investors, and simply nominal shareholders usually cannot obtain DT status.
1. Application time: 1.5 to 3 months.
2. Application conditions: Investment registration certificate (IRC) and enterprise registration certificate (ERC) must be completed and the company is operating normally.
3. Required documents: investor passport, shareholder register, company capital contribution certificate (bank records), articles of association, etcetc.
Work visa (LD/Lao động/Working Visa)
The work visas provided to foreign employees to work in Vietnam are subdivided into LĐ1 and LĐ2, the former is for those who do not need a work permit; the latter requires a work permit to apply, and in practice it is more common to apply for LĐ2.
1. Application time: 1.5 to 3 months.
2. Application conditions: Applicants must provide academic qualifications, relevant seniority certificates, and be approved by foreigners.
3. Required documents: applicant’s passport, academic certificate, health examination certificate, company registration document, labor contract…etc.
Dependent visa (TT/Visiting Relatives/Dependent Visa)
1. TT is a family-based visa for foreign family members, applicable to spouses, minor children, and specific immediate family members. TT visa holders cannot work in Vietnam, only provide the right to stay, and cannot be valid for longer than the main applicant’s visa.

How to apply for a temporary residence permit?

Temporary residence permit/temporary residence permit (TRC/Temporary Residence Card)
After having one of the medium- and long-term visas (LD/DT/TT), foreign employees can apply for a temporary residence permit (TRC), which allows the holder to stay in Vietnam continuously for a long time (such as buying property, getting married) without having to apply for multiple visa extensions, repeated entry and exit, and can be used as proof of official residence status in Vietnam.
Temporary Residence Permit (TRC) Application Process
1. Confirm that your visa eligibility is still valid : Whether it is an investment visa/work visa/family visa, you must have one of the above visas before applying for a temporary residence permit.
2. Completion of residence registration Foreigners living in Vietnam must complete Temporary Residence Registration.
3. Prepare application documents : such as: original passport, valid visa, ID photo, proof of residence registration such as: original passport, valid visa, ID photo, proof of residence registration.
4. Submit the application to the provincial exit and entry bureau at the immigration office where the company is located, and submit the paper documents.
5. The general processing time for waiting for review is 5-14 business days.
6. Pick up a physical TRC card.

V.Philippines work visa application

Foreigners working in the Philippines need to apply for a work visa:9(g) visa: The most common work visa, for foreigners who need a work permit.
Application requirements:include a valid passport, an employment contract from a Philippine employer, a work permit issued by the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE),and a health certificate.
The validity period of the visa:is determined according to the contract, usually 1 to 3 years, and can be renewed upon expiration. Certificate holders are required to abide by the law and avoid working without a certificate or overstaying their visa.

VI.Malaysia work visa application

With the rapid growth of Southeast Asian markets, Malaysia has become an increasingly attractive destination for international businesses and professionals. Whether employed by a local company or seconded to a Malaysian subsidiary, obtaining a valid work visa is the essential first step to working legally in Malaysia.As cross-border assignments and demand for foreign professionals continue to rise, Malaysia’s work visa framework has become a critical area of understanding for both companies and individuals.Below is an overview of the latest Malaysia work visa categories, eligibility requirements, and key considerations for 2026.

What types of work visas are available in Malaysia?

1.Employment Pass(EP)
This Employment Pass (EP) is the primary work permit for foreign professionals legally employed in Malaysia. Applications must be submitted by a qualified Malaysian entity and must meet requirements relating to company eligibility, job justification, and minimum salary thresholds.
Proper pre-assessment and planning can significantly improve approval efficiency and reduce the risk of rejection.

Key requirements for foreign-owned companies applying for an EP include:

The company must be legally incorporated and operating in Malaysia, including private limited companies or registered foreign branches.
Compliance with minimum paid-up capital requirements, typically at least RM 500,000 for foreign-owned entities.
Completion of prerequisite approvals or registrations, such as (foreign hiring eligibility).
The proposed position must demonstrate a legitimate and necessary need for foreign expertise.
The company must maintain good compliance records,including timely tax filings and financial reporting.

EP eligibility and variations:
EP approvals are generally linked to the applicant’s job role, salary level, and employment contract duration, and applications must be submitted to the Immigration Department by the Malaysian employer.

Category I

Monthly Salary Threshold:
RM 10,000 and above

Validity Period:Up to 5 years

Additional Notes:
Renewable; eligible to apply for Dependent Pass

Category II

Monthly Salary Threshold:
RM 5,000–RM 9,999

Validity Period:Up to 2 years

Additional Notes:
Renewable; eligible to apply for Dependent Pass

Category III

Monthly Salary Threshold:
RM 3,000 – RM 4,999

Validity Period:Up to 1 years

Additional Notes:
Renewable (maximum of two renewals); dependents not permitted

Note: Renewal applications must be submitted at least three (3) months prior to the visa expiry date.

2. Professional Visit Pass (PVP)
The Professional Visit Pass (PVP) is designed for foreign nationals entering Malaysia on a short-term basis to perform professional or technical activities.his pass applies to individuals who are not directly employed by a Malaysian company, but who enter Malaysia for professional visits or short-term assignments to provide services,technical support, training, or project-based work.

Pass validity:
Up to 1 year (actual approval period depends on project scope and contractual arrangements).
Eligible Applicants:
- Foreign professionals, technical specialists, or consultants.
- Not directly employed by a Malaysian company.
- Seconded by an overseas company or engaged in project/service collaboration with a Malaysian entity.
Scope of permitted activities:
- Limited to short-term, professional, technical, or project-based activities.
- Full-time or long-term employment is not permitted.
Salary & employment relationship:
- No salary may be paid by a Malaysian company.
- Remuneration is typically paid by the overseas parent company or original employer.

Note: If the scope of work or duration of stay exceeds the approved limits, an Employment Pass (EP) application is required instead.

VII.Summarize

The visa application process can be intricate and time-consuming; however, professional agencies can streamline these procedures considerably. InterArea’s highly experienced team offers in-depth expertise and is committed to providing clients with practical guidance and comprehensive support throughout the entire process.

Overseas Visa Application:
Frequently Asked Questions Q&A

Q1: Can Singapore Employment Pass (EP) be renewed?

The initial validity period of the Singapore Employment Pass (EP) is two years, and holders can apply for renewal before its expiry. Upon successful renewal, the pass can be extended for up to three years. It is recommended to apply for renewal at least six months before the pass expires to avoid any disruptions.

Q2: What are the key considerations for Vietnam Work Visa (Visa LĐ)?

The Vietnam Work Visa is valid for a maximum of two years and can be extended once, with the extension period not exceeding the duration of the original labor contract. After the extension expires, employers must submit an application to the Ministry of Labor, Invalids and Social Affairs (MOLISA) in Vietnam to reapply for a new work permit for their foreign employees.

Q3: What are the advantages of Singapore EP?

Legal Work Status: EP holders can legally work for specific companies in Singapore without needing additional work permits.
Family Accompaniment: Eligible EP holders can apply for Dependent Passes (DP) for their spouses and children.
Permanent Residency Application: EP holders have an easier pathway to apply for Singapore Permanent Residency (PR).
No Minimum Tax Rate Threshold: EP holders benefit from Singapore’s individual income tax system, which features relatively low tax rates and no asset tax.

Q4: Can foreigners apply for Vietnam work visas on their own?

Theoretically, it is possible, but in practice it is not recommended to handle it yourself. The Vietnam work visa application requires a work permit, which is a complicated process. If foreign companies or employees lack local experience, it is easy to repeatedly supplement documents or fail to review them during the process. In order to improve the success rate and efficiency, most companies will entrust professional agency companies to assist in handling the process.

Overseas Visa Application:
Frequently Asked Questions Q&A

Q1: Can Singapore Employment Pass (EP) be renewed?

A: The initial validity period of the Singapore Employment Pass (EP) is two years, and holders can apply for renewal before its expiry. Upon successful renewal, the pass can be extended for up to three years. It is recommended to apply for renewal at least six months before the pass expires to avoid any disruptions.

Q2: What are the key considerations for Vietnam Work Visa (Visa LĐ)?

A: The Vietnam Work Visa is valid for a maximum of two years and can be extended once, with the extension period not exceeding the duration of the original labor contract. After the extension expires, employers must submit an application to the Ministry of Labor, Invalids and Social Affairs (MOLISA) in Vietnam to reapply for a new work permit for their foreign employees.

Q3: What are the advantages of Singapore EP?

Legal Work Status: EP holders can legally work for specific companies in Singapore without needing additional work permits.
Family Accompaniment: Eligible EP holders can apply for Dependent Passes (DP) for their spouses and children.
Permanent Residency Application: EP holders have an easier pathway to apply for Singapore Permanent Residency (PR).
No Minimum Tax Rate Threshold: EP holders benefit from Singapore’s individual income tax system, which features relatively low tax rates and no asset tax.

Q4: Can foreigners apply for Vietnam work visas on their own?

Theoretically, it is possible, but in practice it is not recommended to handle it yourself. The Vietnam work visa application requires a work permit, which is a complicated process.If foreign companies or employees lack local experience, it is easy to repeatedly supplement documents or fail to review them during the process. In order to improve the success rate and efficiency, most companies will entrust professional agency companies to assist in handling the process.

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Overseas Visa Application