Employment Pass

What is an Employment Pass?

The Employment Pass (EP) is a work visa primarily issued to foreign professionals, executives, managers (such as directors, general managers, CEOs), and specialists seeking to work in Singapore. It is offered by the Ministry of Manpower (MOM) and can be applied for after incorporating a company in Singapore. Unlike other work permits, the EP is not subject to any quota or monthly levy requirements.

How to Qualify for an Employment Pass?

To be eligible for an Employment Pass in Singapore, you need to meet the following criteria:

EP Qualifying Salary

• At least $5,000 for all sectors except financial services (increases progressively with age from age 23, up to $10,500 at age 45 and above), At least $5,500 for the financial services sector (increases progressively with age from age 23, up to $11,500 at age 45 and above)
• From 1 January 2025, the EP qualifying salary for new applications will be revised to at least $5,600, and at least $6,200 for the financial services sector. 
• Hold a managerial, executive, or specialized position.
• Have recognized qualifications, such as a university degree, professional certifications, or specialized skills.

COMPASS

• Starting from September 1, 2023, Singapore will implement a new point-based system for Employment Pass (EP) applications. This salary-based system is aimed at helping applicants make more accurate assessments when applying for an EP.
• The evaluation follows a progressive scoring system, and employers must assess applicants through the Complementarity Assessment Framework (COMPASS). Applicants need to score a total of 40 points in this assessment framework to qualify for the EP.
• The framework consists of 4 main evaluation criteria and 2 additional criteria, with a passing score of 40 points.
• The four main assessment criteria are: salary, qualifications, diversity of the workforce, and support for hiring local employees. Each criterion has a maximum score of 20 points.

Exemptions from COMPASS

Candidates are exempted from COMPASS if they meet any of these conditions:

• Have a fixed monthly salary of at least $22,500 (similar to the prevailing Fair Consideration Framework (FCF) job advertising exemption from 1 September 2023)
• Are applying as an overseas intra-corporate transferee
• Are filling the role for 1 month or less

Keep in mind that these are general guidelines. The Ministry of Manpower reviews each Employment Pass application individually before granting approval. The EP application is open to individuals of all nationalities.

We can assist you in the following areas:

• Providing information and professional advice before applying for an EP;
• Preparing and filing EP application documents;
• Following up on the EP application process;
• Liaising directly with MOM officers if necessary;
• Submitting additional documents as requested by MOM;
• Closely coordinating follow-up arrangements after EP approval;
• If the EP application is rejected, identifying the reasons for rejection and providing an effective plan for appeal.