Employment Pass: for professionals
The Employment Pass (EP) is Singapore's work authorization for foreign professionals, managers, executives, and specialists. Minimum qualifying salary: S$5,000 per month (S$5,500 for financial services sector) as of 2024. Salary requirements increase with age — older candidates need higher salaries. EP applications are submitted by the employer through MOM's EP Online portal.
Since September 2023, EP renewals and some new applications use the COMPASS (Complementarity Assessment Framework) points framework, assessing applicants across four criteria: individual salary (relative to sector peers), individual qualifications, diversity of the firm's workforce, and the firm's support for local employment development. A minimum of 40 points is required. A perfect COMPASS score (all criteria met) ensures faster approval.
S Pass and Work Permit: mid-skilled and semi-skilled
The S Pass is for mid-skilled foreign employees earning at least S$3,150 per month (S$3,650 for financial services). S Pass holders are subject to quota limits — employers can have no more than 15–25% of their workforce on S Passes depending on the sector. MOM also publishes a monthly S Pass levy per worker (S$450–S$650), paid by the employer.
Work Permits are for lower-wage foreign workers in manufacturing, construction, marine, process, and services sectors. They are quota-controlled with dependency ratio ceilings (DRC) per industry. Workers must be from approved source countries (including Malaysia, China, India, South Asia, and select others depending on sector). Work Permits are typically 2 years and renewable.
EntrePass and other specialized passes
The EntrePass is for innovative entrepreneurs who want to start a Singapore business. Applicants must have funding from recognized VC/angel investors, a recognized incubator/accelerator, or demonstrate exceptional achievements in entrepreneurship or technology. The ONE Pass (Overseas Networks & Expertise) is a 5-year pass for top global talent earning S$30,000+/month or with exceptional achievements in arts, culture, sports, academia, or research.
Singapore's work passes do not lead directly to permanent residence, but EP holders may apply for PR after 6+ months of employment. Singapore PR applications are assessed based on economic contribution, skills, and integration potential.
Related Questions
Can I switch jobs on a Singapore Employment Pass?
Changing employers requires your new employer to apply for a fresh EP — the existing EP is tied to the issuing employer. Your new employer submits an EP application through EP Online before you start the new role.
Can I bring my family to Singapore on an EP?
EP holders earning S$6,000+/month can sponsor a Dependant's Pass (DP) for their spouse and unmarried children under 21. Those earning S$12,000+/month can also sponsor Long Term Visit Passes (LTVP) for parents.
What is the COMPASS scoring system?
COMPASS stands for Complementarity Assessment Framework. It evaluates EP applicants on four dimensions: individual monthly salary vs sector peers (0–20 points), qualifications (0–20 points), diversity (whether hiring this person increases the firm's nationality diversity: 0–20 points), and support for local employment (whether the firm has strong local talent development records: 0–20 points). 40+ points = pass; bonus points are also available for shortage occupations or top universities.
Does Singapore PR lead to citizenship?
Singapore permanent residents (PR) can apply for Singapore citizenship after 2 years of PR status (discretionary). Singapore citizenship grants the right to hold a Singapore passport, which has visa-free access to 192 countries. Male citizens/PR holders are subject to National Service (NS) conscription obligations.
How long does an EP application take?
EP online applications are typically processed within 3 weeks; some complex cases take 6–8 weeks. MOM may request additional documents. Premium service is not available for work passes.
Official Sources
This guide is general information, not legal advice. Fees and processing times change; always confirm with the official government source before acting.