Understanding this ecosystem is crucial for employers looking to hire international talent and professionals seeking opportunities in Singapore.
The Ministry of Manpower (MOM) regularly updates its work pass policies to respond to changing economic needs. Recent changes include the implementation of the COMPASS framework for Employment Passes and adjustments to S Pass salary requirements effective September 2025. This comprehensive guide breaks down each work pass category, eligibility requirements, application processes, and provides expert tips to navigate Singapore's immigration landscape successfully.
Employment Pass (EP) for Professionals
The Employment Pass (EP) is Singapore's primary work visa for foreign professionals, managers, and executives seeking to work in Singapore. It represents the premium work pass category designed to attract top-tier global talent to contribute to Singapore's knowledge-based economy. The EP is typically granted for an initial period of up to two years and can be renewed for up to three years at a time, provided the holder continues to meet eligibility requirements .
To qualify for an EP, candidates must meet two critical stages of eligibility:
Stage 1: Minimum Qualifying Salary
• For new applications from January 2025: S$5,600 per month for all sectors except financial services
• Financial services sector: S$6,200 per month
• The salary requirement increases progressively with age (from age 23), reaching up to S$10,700 at age 45 and above for all sectors, and S$11,800 for financial services
Stage 2: COMPASS Framework
Unless exempted, candidates must pass the Complementarity Assessment Framework (COMPASS), a points-based system. Applicants must score at least 40 points across various criteria
Application Process
1. Employer Submission: Only Singapore-registered companies or appointed employment agents can submit EP applications through MOM's EP eService
2. Document Preparation: Collect necessary documents including educational certificates (must be verified if used for COMPASS points), candidate's passport copy, and detailed resume
3. Application Submission: Submit online with payment of S$105 processing fee
4. Processing Time: Typically 10 business days for straightforward cases
5. In-Principle Approval (IPA): If approved, an IPA letter is issued, valid for 6 months, allowing the candidate to enter Singapore
6. Pass Issuance: Once in Singapore, the employer completes the issuance process, which includes paying issuance fees and registering biometrics if required.
Key Features
EP holders earning at least S$6,000 monthly can sponsor their spouse and children for Dependant's Passes. EP holders may eventually qualify to apply for Singapore Permanent Residence (PR). EP holders can change employers without leaving Singapore, though a new EP application is required
Table: Employment Pass Salary Requirements (2025)
Understanding the S Pass
The S Pass is designed for mid-skilled foreign professionals across all nationalities who meet specific assessment criteria. It serves as a mid-tier work pass between the Employment Pass and Work Permits, aiming to address talent gaps in technical and supervisory roles while ensuring employers fairly consider local candidates.
What is the eliigibility criteria for S Pass application?
Salary Requirements:
• From September 2025: S$3,300 per month for all sectors except financial services
• Financial services sector: S$3,800 per month
• Salary requirements increase with age, reaching up to S$4,800 at age 45+ for all sectors, and S$5,650 for financial services
Qualifications:
• Declaring qualifications is optional but recommended
• If declared, qualifications must be from accredited institutions listed in MOM's dropdown menu
• Candidates without degree-equivalent qualifications can still be considered if they have relevant skills and experience
Please note that S Pass is subject to sector-specific quotas and levy payments:
Quota Limits:
• Services sector: S Pass holders cannot exceed 10% of the company's total workforce
• Construction, manufacturing, marine shipyard, and process sectors: Up to 15% of total workforce
Levy Payments:
• From September 2025: S$650 monthly levy across all sectors
• Levy must be paid by the employer for all S Pass holders
• The daily levy rate is approximately S$21.37 for partial months
Application Process:
1. Self-Assessment: Use MOM's Self-Assessment Tool (SAT) to check eligibility before applying
2. Job Advertising: Fulfill Fair Consideration Framework requirements by advertising on MyCareersFuture portal
3. Document Preparation: Prepare candidate's documents, including passport details and qualifications (if declaring)
4. Online Submission: Submit application through MOM's EP eService portal
5. Processing: Typically within 3 weeks for complete applications
6. Issuance: Once approved, complete the issuance process including payment of fees and biometric registration.
Renewal and Dependant's Pass:
• S Passes are typically valid for up to 2 years.
• Renewals require meeting the latest salary requirements.
• S Pass holders earning at least S$6,000 monthly may sponsor their spouse and children for Dependant's Passes.
Understanding COMPASS
Basically there are 3 new COMPASS framework that you should be aware of. Let us guide you on how to score enough points for your EP Application.
COMPASS Scoring Criteria:
EP applications are assessed on four foundational criteria and two bonus criteria:
Foundational Criteria (20 points each):
1. Salary (C1): Compares candidate's fixed monthly salary against local PMET salaries in the sector
· ≥90th percentile: 20 points
· 65th to <90th percentile: 10 points
· <65th percentile: 0 points
2. Qualifications (C2): Evaluates educational background
· Top-tier institutions (Top 100 universities, Singapore Autonomous Universities): 20 points
· Other degree-equivalent qualifications: 10 points
· No degree-equivalent: 0 points
3. Diversity (C3): Assesses nationality diversity within the company
· Candidate's nationality <5% of firm's PMETs: 20 points
· 5% to <25%: 10 points
· ≥25%: 0 points
4. Support for Local Employment (C4): Measures company's recruitment of local professionals
· Firm's local PMET share ≥50th percentile within sector: 20 points
· 20th to <50th percentile: 10 points
· <20th percentile: 0 points
Bonus Criteria:
1. Skills Bonus (C5): Additional points for occupations on the Shortage Occupation List (SOL)
· 20 points if candidate's nationality <1/3 of firm's PMETs
· 10 points if candidate's nationality ≥1/3 of firm's PMETs
2. Strategic Economic Priorities Bonus (C6): 10 points for companies participating in approved economic initiatives
Passing Score:
• Minimum passing score: 40 points
• Applications scoring below 40 points are likely rejected
• Even with 40+ points, approval is at MOM's discretion
Strategies to Improve COMPASS Scores:
• Salary Adjustment: Increase proposed salary to reach higher percentile benchmarks
• Qualifications Verification: Ensure top qualifications are properly verified by MOM-approved agencies
• Diversity Management: Hire candidates from underrepresented nationalities to improve diversity scores
• Local Employment: Increase recruitment and retention of local PMETs
• Shortage Occupations: Consider candidates in SOL-listed occupations for bonus points
Exemptions from COMPASS
Candidates are exempt from COMPASS if they:
· Earn a fixed monthly salary of at least S$22,500
· Are applying as overseas intra-corporate transferees
· Are filling a role on a short-term basis
Work Permit for Migrant Workers: Sector-Specific Rules
Work Permits are designed for semi-skilled migrant workers in specific sectors. Unlike EP and S Pass, Work Permits have strict eligibility criteria, quota restrictions, and levy requirements that vary by sector.
Sector-Specific Regulations
Construction, Process, and Marine Shipyard Sectors:
· Quota: Dependency Ratio Ceiling (DRC) of 83.3% for construction and process sectors; 77.8% for marine shipyard
· Levy Rates: Vary by sector, skill level, and worker nationality
· Requirements: Workers must pass medical examinations and meet security bond requirements
Manufacturing Sector:
· Quota: DRC of 60% of total workforce
· PRC Sub-quota: Chinese nationals cannot exceed 25% of total workforce
· Levy Rates: Tiered based on skill level and qualifications
Services Sector:
· Quota: DRC of 35% of total workforce
· PRC Sub-quota: Chinese nationals cannot exceed 8% of total workforce
· Levy Rates: Vary based on skill level and qualifications
Levy and Quota Management
Employers must pay monthly levies for each Work Permit holder, with rates varying by sector and worker qualifications. The Local Qualifying Salary (LQS) of S$1,600 monthly determines how local employees are counted for quota calculations .
Quota Calculation
• Local employees earning ≥S$1,600 monthly count as 1 unit
• Those earning S$800 to <S$1,600 count as 0.5 units
• Quota is based on the average number of local employees over the past 3 months
Application Process
1. Quota Check: Verify available quota through WP Online portal
2. Worker Selection: Choose qualified candidates meeting sector requirements
3. Document Preparation: Gather necessary documents including passport, educational certificates, and photos
4. Online Application: Submit through WP Online portal
5. Security Bond: Execute S$5,000 security bond for each non-Malaysian worker
6. Issuance: Once approved, worker can enter Singapore and begin work
7. 5 Other Key Passes: EntrePass, PEP, and Specialized Passes
EntrePass for Entrepreneurs
The EntrePass is designed for foreign entrepreneurs looking to establish and operate innovative businesses in Singapore. Unlike other work passes, the EntrePass focuses on the business potential rather than individual qualifications.
Eligibility Criteria
• Venture must be venture-backed or possess innovative technologies
• Business must be registered as a private limited company with ACRA
• Applicant must own at least 30% of the company shares
• Company must meet funding, business spending, or local job creation requirements within specific timelines
Personalised Employment Pass (PEP)
The PEP offers greater flexibility than standard EPs as it is not tied to a single employer. However, it has stricter eligibility requirements .
Key Features
• For high-earning existing EP holders or overseas foreign professionals
• Requires minimum annual fixed salary of S$144,000 for current EP holders
• Overseas professionals must have last drawn monthly salary of at least S$18,000
• Valid for 3 years, non-renewable
• Allows up to 6 months of unemployment between jobs
Overseas Networks & Expertise Pass (ONE Pass)
The ONE Pass is for top talent in business, arts, culture, sports, academia, and research. It offers flexibility similar to PEP but with higher eligibility requirements .
Eligibility Criteria
• Candidates must earn a fixed monthly salary of at least S$30,000
• Alternatively, outstanding achievements in arts, culture, sports, or academia
• Pass holders can concurrently start, operate, and work for multiple companies
• Spouse of ONE Pass holder can work in Singapore without a separate work pass
So how do you check your work pass application status online?
Monitoring Application Progress
Tracking your work pass application status is essential for effective immigration planning. MOM provides online portals for employers and applicants to check real-time statuses.
While applicants cannot directly check status, they can:
• Request status updates from their employer or appointed employment agent
• Use the MOM website's enquiry form for general queries
• Check visa status through Singapore's Immigration & Checkpoints Authority if already in Singapore
Upon approval, In-Principle Approval (IPA) letter is issued electronically via your email. IPA contains important details including validity period, entry requirements, and medical examination instructions. The IPA serves as a pre-approved single-entry visa valid for 6 months
Common Status Messages
• Pending: Application is under review
• Approved: Application successful, IPA issued
• Rejected: Application unsuccessful, with reasons typically provided
• Additional Documents Required: MOM needs more information, extending processing time.
Tips for Successful Applications
• Use Self-Assessment Tools: Utilize MOM's SAT before applying to gauge eligibility
• Complete Documentation: Ensure all documents are properly prepared and verified
• Track Processing Times: Note that applications requiring additional documents take longer
• Plan Ahead: Submit renewal applications at least 3 months before expiry
Navigating Singapore's Work Pass System Successfully
Singapore's work pass ecosystem is designed to balance business needs with national interests. While the system may appear complex, understanding the specific requirements of each pass category significantly improves approval chances. The recent introduction of COMPASS and increased salary thresholds reflect Singapore's commitment to quality over quantity in foreign talent acquisition.
4 Key takeaways for success
• Thorough Preparation: Use MOM's self-assessment tools before application
• Document Verification: Ensure educational credentials are properly. verified by approved agencies.
• Strategic Hiring: Consider how each hire affects your company's COMPASS scores and quota limits.
• Professional Guidance: Consider engaging licensed employment agents for complex cases.
As Singapore continues to refine its work pass policies, employers and professionals should stay updated on the latest changes through official MOM channels and reputable immigration consultants. With proper planning and understanding of the requirements, navigating Singapore's work pass system can be a smooth and successful process.
Need help with your work pass application? Consult with licensed immigration professionals who can provide personalized guidance based on your specific circumstances and latest regulatory changes.
Employment Pass (EP) for Professionals
The Employment Pass (EP) is Singapore's primary work visa for foreign professionals, managers, and executives seeking to work in Singapore. It represents the premium work pass category designed to attract top-tier global talent to contribute to Singapore's knowledge-based economy. The EP is typically granted for an initial period of up to two years and can be renewed for up to three years at a time, provided the holder continues to meet eligibility requirements .
To qualify for an EP, candidates must meet two critical stages of eligibility:
Stage 1: Minimum Qualifying Salary
• For new applications from January 2025: S$5,600 per month for all sectors except financial services
• Financial services sector: S$6,200 per month
• The salary requirement increases progressively with age (from age 23), reaching up to S$10,700 at age 45 and above for all sectors, and S$11,800 for financial services
Stage 2: COMPASS Framework
Unless exempted, candidates must pass the Complementarity Assessment Framework (COMPASS), a points-based system. Applicants must score at least 40 points across various criteria
Application Process
1. Employer Submission: Only Singapore-registered companies or appointed employment agents can submit EP applications through MOM's EP eService
2. Document Preparation: Collect necessary documents including educational certificates (must be verified if used for COMPASS points), candidate's passport copy, and detailed resume
3. Application Submission: Submit online with payment of S$105 processing fee
4. Processing Time: Typically 10 business days for straightforward cases
5. In-Principle Approval (IPA): If approved, an IPA letter is issued, valid for 6 months, allowing the candidate to enter Singapore
6. Pass Issuance: Once in Singapore, the employer completes the issuance process, which includes paying issuance fees and registering biometrics if required.
Key Features
EP holders earning at least S$6,000 monthly can sponsor their spouse and children for Dependant's Passes. EP holders may eventually qualify to apply for Singapore Permanent Residence (PR). EP holders can change employers without leaving Singapore, though a new EP application is required
Table: Employment Pass Salary Requirements (2025)
Understanding the S Pass
The S Pass is designed for mid-skilled foreign professionals across all nationalities who meet specific assessment criteria. It serves as a mid-tier work pass between the Employment Pass and Work Permits, aiming to address talent gaps in technical and supervisory roles while ensuring employers fairly consider local candidates.
What is the eliigibility criteria for S Pass application?
Salary Requirements:
• From September 2025: S$3,300 per month for all sectors except financial services
• Financial services sector: S$3,800 per month
• Salary requirements increase with age, reaching up to S$4,800 at age 45+ for all sectors, and S$5,650 for financial services
Qualifications:
• Declaring qualifications is optional but recommended
• If declared, qualifications must be from accredited institutions listed in MOM's dropdown menu
• Candidates without degree-equivalent qualifications can still be considered if they have relevant skills and experience
Please note that S Pass is subject to sector-specific quotas and levy payments:
Quota Limits:
• Services sector: S Pass holders cannot exceed 10% of the company's total workforce
• Construction, manufacturing, marine shipyard, and process sectors: Up to 15% of total workforce
Levy Payments:
• From September 2025: S$650 monthly levy across all sectors
• Levy must be paid by the employer for all S Pass holders
• The daily levy rate is approximately S$21.37 for partial months
Application Process:
1. Self-Assessment: Use MOM's Self-Assessment Tool (SAT) to check eligibility before applying
2. Job Advertising: Fulfill Fair Consideration Framework requirements by advertising on MyCareersFuture portal
3. Document Preparation: Prepare candidate's documents, including passport details and qualifications (if declaring)
4. Online Submission: Submit application through MOM's EP eService portal
5. Processing: Typically within 3 weeks for complete applications
6. Issuance: Once approved, complete the issuance process including payment of fees and biometric registration.
Renewal and Dependant's Pass:
• S Passes are typically valid for up to 2 years.
• Renewals require meeting the latest salary requirements.
• S Pass holders earning at least S$6,000 monthly may sponsor their spouse and children for Dependant's Passes.
Understanding COMPASS
Framework (COMPASS) is a transparent points-based system introduced in September 2023 to assess EP applications. COMPASS provides businesses with greater clarity for manpower planning while ensuring foreign professionals complement rather than compete with local talent.
Basically there are 3 new COMPASS framework that you should be aware of. Let us guide you on how to score enough points for your EP Application.
COMPASS Scoring Criteria:
EP applications are assessed on four foundational criteria and two bonus criteria:
Foundational Criteria (20 points each):
1. Salary (C1): Compares candidate's fixed monthly salary against local PMET salaries in the sector
· ≥90th percentile: 20 points
· 65th to <90th percentile: 10 points
· <65th percentile: 0 points
2. Qualifications (C2): Evaluates educational background
· Top-tier institutions (Top 100 universities, Singapore Autonomous Universities): 20 points
· Other degree-equivalent qualifications: 10 points
· No degree-equivalent: 0 points
3. Diversity (C3): Assesses nationality diversity within the company
· Candidate's nationality <5% of firm's PMETs: 20 points
· 5% to <25%: 10 points
· ≥25%: 0 points
4. Support for Local Employment (C4): Measures company's recruitment of local professionals
· Firm's local PMET share ≥50th percentile within sector: 20 points
· 20th to <50th percentile: 10 points
· <20th percentile: 0 points
Bonus Criteria:
1. Skills Bonus (C5): Additional points for occupations on the Shortage Occupation List (SOL)
· 20 points if candidate's nationality <1/3 of firm's PMETs
· 10 points if candidate's nationality ≥1/3 of firm's PMETs
2. Strategic Economic Priorities Bonus (C6): 10 points for companies participating in approved economic initiatives
Passing Score:
• Minimum passing score: 40 points
• Applications scoring below 40 points are likely rejected
• Even with 40+ points, approval is at MOM's discretion
Strategies to Improve COMPASS Scores:
• Salary Adjustment: Increase proposed salary to reach higher percentile benchmarks
• Qualifications Verification: Ensure top qualifications are properly verified by MOM-approved agencies
• Diversity Management: Hire candidates from underrepresented nationalities to improve diversity scores
• Local Employment: Increase recruitment and retention of local PMETs
• Shortage Occupations: Consider candidates in SOL-listed occupations for bonus points
Exemptions from COMPASS
Candidates are exempt from COMPASS if they:
· Earn a fixed monthly salary of at least S$22,500
· Are applying as overseas intra-corporate transferees
· Are filling a role on a short-term basis
Work Permit for Migrant Workers: Sector-Specific Rules
Work Permits are designed for semi-skilled migrant workers in specific sectors. Unlike EP and S Pass, Work Permits have strict eligibility criteria, quota restrictions, and levy requirements that vary by sector.
Sector-Specific Regulations
Construction, Process, and Marine Shipyard Sectors:
· Quota: Dependency Ratio Ceiling (DRC) of 83.3% for construction and process sectors; 77.8% for marine shipyard
· Levy Rates: Vary by sector, skill level, and worker nationality
· Requirements: Workers must pass medical examinations and meet security bond requirements
Manufacturing Sector:
· Quota: DRC of 60% of total workforce
· PRC Sub-quota: Chinese nationals cannot exceed 25% of total workforce
· Levy Rates: Tiered based on skill level and qualifications
Services Sector:
· Quota: DRC of 35% of total workforce
· PRC Sub-quota: Chinese nationals cannot exceed 8% of total workforce
· Levy Rates: Vary based on skill level and qualifications
Levy and Quota Management
Employers must pay monthly levies for each Work Permit holder, with rates varying by sector and worker qualifications. The Local Qualifying Salary (LQS) of S$1,600 monthly determines how local employees are counted for quota calculations .
Quota Calculation
• Local employees earning ≥S$1,600 monthly count as 1 unit
• Those earning S$800 to <S$1,600 count as 0.5 units
• Quota is based on the average number of local employees over the past 3 months
Application Process
1. Quota Check: Verify available quota through WP Online portal
2. Worker Selection: Choose qualified candidates meeting sector requirements
3. Document Preparation: Gather necessary documents including passport, educational certificates, and photos
4. Online Application: Submit through WP Online portal
5. Security Bond: Execute S$5,000 security bond for each non-Malaysian worker
6. Issuance: Once approved, worker can enter Singapore and begin work
7. 5 Other Key Passes: EntrePass, PEP, and Specialized Passes
EntrePass for Entrepreneurs
The EntrePass is designed for foreign entrepreneurs looking to establish and operate innovative businesses in Singapore. Unlike other work passes, the EntrePass focuses on the business potential rather than individual qualifications.
Eligibility Criteria
• Venture must be venture-backed or possess innovative technologies
• Business must be registered as a private limited company with ACRA
• Applicant must own at least 30% of the company shares
• Company must meet funding, business spending, or local job creation requirements within specific timelines
Personalised Employment Pass (PEP)
The PEP offers greater flexibility than standard EPs as it is not tied to a single employer. However, it has stricter eligibility requirements .
Key Features
• For high-earning existing EP holders or overseas foreign professionals
• Requires minimum annual fixed salary of S$144,000 for current EP holders
• Overseas professionals must have last drawn monthly salary of at least S$18,000
• Valid for 3 years, non-renewable
• Allows up to 6 months of unemployment between jobs
Overseas Networks & Expertise Pass (ONE Pass)
The ONE Pass is for top talent in business, arts, culture, sports, academia, and research. It offers flexibility similar to PEP but with higher eligibility requirements .
Eligibility Criteria
• Candidates must earn a fixed monthly salary of at least S$30,000
• Alternatively, outstanding achievements in arts, culture, sports, or academia
• Pass holders can concurrently start, operate, and work for multiple companies
• Spouse of ONE Pass holder can work in Singapore without a separate work pass
So how do you check your work pass application status online?
Monitoring Application Progress
Tracking your work pass application status is essential for effective immigration planning. MOM provides online portals for employers and applicants to check real-time statuses.
While applicants cannot directly check status, they can:
• Request status updates from their employer or appointed employment agent
• Use the MOM website's enquiry form for general queries
• Check visa status through Singapore's Immigration & Checkpoints Authority if already in Singapore
Upon approval, In-Principle Approval (IPA) letter is issued electronically via your email. IPA contains important details including validity period, entry requirements, and medical examination instructions. The IPA serves as a pre-approved single-entry visa valid for 6 months
Common Status Messages
• Pending: Application is under review
• Approved: Application successful, IPA issued
• Rejected: Application unsuccessful, with reasons typically provided
• Additional Documents Required: MOM needs more information, extending processing time.
Tips for Successful Applications
• Use Self-Assessment Tools: Utilize MOM's SAT before applying to gauge eligibility
• Complete Documentation: Ensure all documents are properly prepared and verified
• Track Processing Times: Note that applications requiring additional documents take longer
• Plan Ahead: Submit renewal applications at least 3 months before expiry
Navigating Singapore's Work Pass System Successfully
Singapore's work pass ecosystem is designed to balance business needs with national interests. While the system may appear complex, understanding the specific requirements of each pass category significantly improves approval chances. The recent introduction of COMPASS and increased salary thresholds reflect Singapore's commitment to quality over quantity in foreign talent acquisition.
4 Key takeaways for success
• Thorough Preparation: Use MOM's self-assessment tools before application
• Document Verification: Ensure educational credentials are properly. verified by approved agencies.
• Strategic Hiring: Consider how each hire affects your company's COMPASS scores and quota limits.
• Professional Guidance: Consider engaging licensed employment agents for complex cases.
As Singapore continues to refine its work pass policies, employers and professionals should stay updated on the latest changes through official MOM channels and reputable immigration consultants. With proper planning and understanding of the requirements, navigating Singapore's work pass system can be a smooth and successful process.
Need help with your work pass application? Consult with licensed immigration professionals who can provide personalized guidance based on your specific circumstances and latest regulatory changes.