Table of Contents
Introduction
Singapore continues to stand out for its economic strength and reputation as a global business hub. It keeps attracting ambitious professionals from around the world because of the unmatched level of career advancement and lifestyle it provides. But every foreign individual is required to obtain an employment pass first in order to get permission from the Singapore government to work there.
The Employment Pass (EP) is your ticket to employment in this dynamic city-state if you’re a foreign professional. However, obtaining one has a procedure, just like any other worthwhile opportunity.
In this blog, I’ll discuss everything you need to know about Singapore’s employment pass, eligibility and take you through the whole application process.
What Exactly is an Employment Pass?
For foreign professionals who have secured employment in Singapore, the Ministry of Manpower in Singapore issues the Employment Pass (EP) work visa. We are discussing positions such as managers, executives, and specialists; in other words, individuals in senior or skilled positions.
The employment pass is not subject to quotas like the S Pass or Work Permit are. This pass will allow you to travel freely, live and work in Singapore, and eventually begin the process of obtaining permanent residency if you are granted approval. And you also may be allowed to bring your family along if your pay is sufficient.
The Eligibility Required to Apply for an Employment Pass
In plain terms, if you are a foreign professional with relevant experience, strong qualifications, and a job offer from a Singaporean employer, you are well on your way.
As of 2025, you’ll need to check off two major boxes:
1. Minimum Salary Required
Singapore has implemented age-adjusted salary thresholds to grant an employment pass to foreigners that vary by industry. Here is a simplified breakdown:
- Non-financial sectors: S$5,600 for individuals in their 20s to S$10,700 for those over 45
- Financial sectors: S$6,200 to S$11,800 for senior candidates
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Keep in mind that here, only the fixed monthly salary counts and commissions or bonuses are irrelevant.
2. The Framework of COMPASS
Singapore evaluates applications by using a points-based system called COMPASS (Complementarity Assessment Framework). In order to get approved, you must score at least 40 points. It will examine:
- Your pay (in relation to local professionals in comparable positions).
- Your academic qualifications.
- The workforce’s diversity at your employer’s office.
- The proportion of local workers in the organisation.
If your employer supports important economic sectors or if your position is listed on Singapore’s Shortage Occupation List, it will add to your advantage.
Some individuals are exempt from COMPASS, such as those on temporary assignments or those making S$22,500 or more.
Things Employers Must Do
In Singapore, employers are required to adhere to the Fair Consideration Framework. This implies that before employing a foreigner, they must post an advertisement for the position on a local job portal (MyCareersFuture.sg) for a minimum of 14 days. This guarantees that Singaporeans are given an equal opportunity first.
While there are some exceptions (such as small businesses or positions paying more than S$22,500), most companies are required to demonstrate that they have given local candidates serious consideration.
The Application Process
1. Utilise the self-assessment tool
Employers and candidates can use this tool to determine their likelihood of qualifying. It’s very accurate and a good way to avoid wasting time on applications that aren’t eligible.
2: Send in the application
Candidates are not eligible to apply, and only the employers or authorised employment agencies may do so. Online applications are submitted via MOM’s portal.
3: Await a Decision
If the employer is located in Singapore, processing typically takes ten business days. But it could also take more days if the business is located abroad or if the application is done manually.
4. Receive the In-Principle Approval (IPA)
If the applicant gets accepted, they’ll receive an IPA letter, which has a six-month validity period and will function similarly to an entry visa.
5: Final Step
After arriving in Singapore, the applicant visits the Employment Pass Services Centre to present their documentation, get a medical examination if necessary, and pick up their EP card.
Can Your Family Join You?
You have the option of applying for a dependant’s Pass for your children and spouse if you earn at least S$6,000 a month. Also, if your salary is S$12,000 and above, you can apply for a Long Term Visit Pass for your other family members.
With the right permits, your dependents are allowed to live, study, and even work in Singapore freely.
Cancellations and Renewals
Employment passes are usually issued for a duration of two to three years. If all requirements are still being met, renewals are quite simple. Just keep in mind that passes expiring after January 1, 2026, will have to be renewed under COMPASS guidelines, along with updated salary thresholds.
And in case you need to change jobs or leave Singapore, you’ll need to cancel your existing employment pass. This will be handled by your employer and needs to be completed within a week of your last day of employment.
What Happens If Your Application Is Rejected?
Your employment pass application might get rejected the first time, but don’t lose hope. Because the employer still has three months to file an appeal if they can respond to the MOM’s justifications for rejecting your application.
However, simply resubmitting the same application won’t help because the new appeal must contain new or clarifying information which will help your application get approval this time.
Useful Additional Tips
- Be truthful and present only your correct and accurate documents.
- Reach or surpass salary benchmarks, because the higher your pay is from the minimum amount, the higher your chances of getting the employment pass.
- Target positions in industries with shortages that are listed on Singapore’s official SOL. This will also increase your chances.
- Prepare ahead of time by gathering supporting documentation and keeping in close contact with your employer.
Also Read: 7 Benefits of Using Study Abroad Consultants
Conclusion
Singapore’s Employment Pass program seeks to attract skilled overseas workers who can add value to Singapore’s economy while ensuring fairness to local job seekers. Should you choose to reside in Singapore, having an employment pass allows you to work and travel freely without numerous limitations.
With stricter rules now in place, inform yourself and have a well-defined strategy for the process. This way, you can turn an opportunity into a durable future in Singapore.
