No Revenue? Can't Apply for EP?

2026-09-23

Many new company owners in Singapore hold a common misconception: a newly incorporated business with no revenue is ineligible for a Self-Employed Employment Pass (EP). This assumption is incorrect.

Company revenue or profitability isnot the decisive factor for EP approval. The Ministry of Manpower (MOM) focuses on the overall rationality of the company profile and a clear, legitimate application structure.

Core MOM Evaluation Criteria

When reviewing Self-Employed EP applications, MOM prioritises authenticity and practicality rather than corporate earnings. Key assessment indicators include:

- The company owns a genuine business direction or feasible upcoming development plans;

- The applied position matches the company’s current development stage, instead of being created solely for EP application purposes;

- The company’s overall operational conditions can reasonably support the applied position and corresponding salary level;

- The applicant’s professional background and work experience are highly compatible with the job role.

Typical Approval & Risk Scenarios

Start-up companies without revenue face differentiated review results, depending on their preparation status:

1）Eligible & Low-Risk Situation: Even with zero revenue, the company has completed basic pre-operation preparations, such as arranging official office premises, opening a corporate bank account, and preparing for upcoming business launches. Such complete layouts are recognised and accepted by MOM.

2）High-Risk & Strict Scrutiny Situation: Companies that only complete registration with no operational preparation, no clear business plans and weak corporate structures will trigger rigorous official review, leading to a high risk of application delays or rejection.

Professional Application Guidance

Newly registered Singapore enterprises do not need to worry about lacking revenue. With a reasonable application framework and complete supporting documents for business legitimacy, start-ups can successfully submit EP applications. If you have just registered a Singapore company and are unsure about your EP application eligibility, feel free to contact us for professional assessment and consultation.

About Skyline Business Consultancy

Established in 2013, Skyline Business Consultancy is an officially registered institution certified by Singapore’s Ministry of Manpower with full qualifications for immigration pass applications. With years of in-depth industry experience, our professional team provides one-stop services for various Singapore passes, including EP, Self-Employed EP, SP, WP, DP and LTVP applications.

Familiar with MOM’s latest review policies and risk assessment rules, we optimise application solutions for start-up enterprises to effectively reduce audit risks and improve approval rates. For any inquiries regarding Singapore pass applications, please reach out to our team via WeChat for free professional consultation.

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