Work Permits for Singapore

There are several work permits for Singapore that expats are most likely to apply for. To qualify for any of these permits, expats will first need to secure a job offer in Singapore.

The Employment Pass is for qualified professionals. The S Pass is for mid-level candidates, and the Work Permit is for semi-skilled workers in fields like construction. The Personalised Employment Pass is for high-earning individuals seeking flexibility, and the EntrePass is for entrepreneurs looking to start businesses in Singapore. The Tech.Pass also caters to experienced tech professionals, allowing them to establish or manage businesses in Singapore.

Work permits for Singapore

Employment pass (EP)

Employment Pass applicants need an offer for a specialised or management-level job in the country. The EP is aimed at professionals, managers, and executives who meet specific eligibility criteria.

Applicants who are recent graduates of well-respected international universities must earn above a certain amount each month to be considered for an EP. The Ministry of Manpower (MOM) sets this amount based on the applicant's age and the sector they are applying to. For financial services, the minimum qualifying salary is higher than for other sectors, reflecting the demand for talent and competitiveness in the industry.

Singapore's MOM has also introduced COMPASS, a points-based assessment framework, to holistically evaluate Employment Pass applications. COMPASS considers factors such as salary, qualifications, diversity within the hiring company, and support for local employment.

The EP application process involves two main stages. Firstly, applicants must meet the qualifying salary, and secondly, they must pass the COMPASS framework. This two-step process ensures that only high-quality talent enters Singapore's workforce.

Expats do not apply for an EP on their own; the application is submitted by the employer or an employment agent before the individual arrives in Singapore. For first-time applicants, an EP is valid for up to two years and can be renewed for up to three years.

EP holders who meet specific financial requirements may have their employer apply for a Dependant’s Pass for their legally married spouse and children under the age of 21. Separate applications must be made for each family member.

S pass

S Pass candidates in Singapore must have a job offer that meets the minimum qualifying salary, which varies based on the candidate's experience level. Senior candidates must be paid more than entry-level applicants to reflect their experience. The MOM benchmarks S Pass salaries against local Associate Professionals and Technicians (APT) salaries to ensure competitiveness and fairness.

Applicants need relevant work experience and possess a degree, diploma, or technical certificate that includes at least one year of full-time study. Employers must apply for the S Pass before the candidate arrives in Singapore and are required to provide medical cover for the candidate. S Passes are valid for two years and can be renewed for up to three years at a time, with renewal applications allowed as early as six months before the pass's expiry.

As with the EP, candidates who earn above a specified salary threshold can have their employer apply for Dependant’s Passes for eligible family members. It is worth noting that there are also limits on the number of S Pass holders a company can employ based on the Dependency Ratio Ceiling (DRC). This quota system ensures a balanced mix of local and foreign workers within a company's workforce.

Personalised employment pass (PEP)

The PEP is designed for high-earning individuals who want greater flexibility in their work arrangements. Unlike other work passes, the PEP is not tied to a specific employer, allowing holders to switch jobs without reapplying for a new pass, provided they maintain their eligibility. This pass is available to existing high-earning Employment Pass holders and overseas professionals who meet the salary criteria. The PEP is valid for up to three years and is non-renewable.

EntrePass

The EntrePass is aimed at foreign entrepreneurs who wish to establish and operate a business in Singapore. Applicants must meet specific criteria that demonstrate the innovative nature of their business, such as holding intellectual property, collaborating with research institutions, or receiving investment from recognised venture capitalists. The EntrePass is an excellent option for those looking to contribute to Singapore's buzzing startup ecosystem.

Tech.Pass

Tech.Pass targets highly skilled tech professionals who want to contribute to Singapore's tech ecosystem. This pass allows individuals to start and operate multiple businesses, mentor local startups, or become investors or directors in Singapore-based companies. Applicants must meet at least two of the following criteria: a high last-drawn fixed salary, significant experience in a leading role in a tech company, or substantial experience in a technical role within the tech industry. Tech.Pass holders enjoy the flexibility to work with multiple companies and take on various roles within the tech sector.

Work permit

Work Permits for Foreign Workers in Singapore are aimed at semi-skilled construction, manufacturing, and services workers. They are generally issued for workers in sectors that require more manual or operational skills. There is no fixed minimum salary for Work Permit holders, but employers must pay the salary they declare to the MOM. Employers are also required to provide medical coverage for their workers, ensuring their well-being while employed in Singapore.

Work holiday pass

The Work Holiday Pass is available under two programmes. The Work Holiday Programme is for students and recent graduates aged 18 to 25 from recognised universities. It allows them to work and holiday in Singapore for up to six months. The Work and Holiday Visa Programme is specifically for Australian citizens aged 18 to 30, providing the opportunity to work and holiday in Singapore for up to 12 months. These programmes offer young people the chance to gain international experience while enjoying the culture and lifestyle of Singapore.

Useful links

• For information about all the different types of work permits offered, visit the Ministry of Manpower.

Work permit regulations are subject to change at short notice, and expats should contact their respective embassy or consulate for the latest details.