The number of Overseas Networks and Expertise (ONE) Pass holders in Singapore rose to around 8,500 by December 2025, up from approximately 6,300 a year earlier, as the city-state continues to attract high-skilled global talent.
Figures from the Ministry of Manpower (MOM) show that the number of ONE Pass holders has increased steadily since the scheme was introduced, rising from around 3,600 in December 2023 to 6,300 in December 2024 and 8,500 by the end of 2025.
Around 70% of ONE Pass holders were working across three sectors: financial and insurance services, information and communication, and professional services.
MOM said the increase reflected the scheme’s attractiveness to global talent and highlighted the contribution of pass holders to Singapore’s workforce through specialised capabilities, leadership experience and international networks.
The ministry said ONE Pass holders bring expertise in areas including artificial intelligence, quantum technologies and biomedical sciences.
Among those cited by MOM is A*STAR researcher Anders Jacobsen Skanderup, who developed an AI-based method to monitor cancer progression. Another example is Oliver Jay, managing director of international strategy and operations at OpenAI, who has mentored founders of Singapore-based companies including Carousell and Glints.
The ONE Pass is valid for up to five years and generally requires applicants to earn a fixed monthly salary of at least S$30,000. Individuals with outstanding achievements in specified fields may qualify without meeting the salary requirement.
The growth in ONE Pass holders contrasts with the relatively stable number of Tech.Pass holders. Their number has remained at an average of around 200 over the past three years, with most working in the information and communication sector.
While MOM highlighted the contribution of ONE Pass holders to Singapore’s economy and workforce, its parliamentary response did not provide quantified data on outcomes such as the number of local jobs created or the extent of skills transfer to Singaporean workers.
The latest figures come as Singapore continues to balance its efforts to attract international expertise with the development of local capabilities and talent.