Your Complete Guide to Singapore Employment Pass Requirements

Employment Pass in Singapore allows foreign professionals, managers, specialists and executives to work and live in Singapore. People with a job offer in Singapore are eligible for an Employment Pass. An employer or an appointed employment agent can apply on behalf of the applicant.

The Employment Pass (EP) is a work visa that allows foreign professionals, managers, and executives to live and work in Singapore. It requires a job offer from a Singapore-based employer or company. Applying for an Employment Pass requires reviewing eligibility, selecting the right pass, and adhering to the Ministry of Manpower’s regulations. The EP remains a preferred choice for foreign professionals seeking opportunities in Singapore’s dynamic business environment. If you want to incorporate a company in Singapore, you may also consider a work visa pass, such as the Employment Pass, to manage your business operations while residing in Singapore. To know more about what is Employment Pass in Singapore, read our blog.

Eligibility for Employment Pass

Only eligible foreign nationals are considered for issuing Singapore Employment Pass and open to all nationalities. The eligibility criteria are

Must have a job offer in Singapore
Must work in a managerial, executive or specialist capacity
Must earn a minimum monthly salary of SGD 5000, more experienced applicants need higher salaries
Employment Pass applications must be submitted by the sponsoring company or an authorised service provider with an Employment Agency (EA) license. Applicants must hold recognised qualifications, such as a university degree, professional credentials, or specialised skills, verified through global agencies or accredited institutions.

The minimum salary requirement for an Employment Pass ensures foreign holders earn comparable salaries to local Singaporeans, discouraging employers from hiring foreigners at lower costs.

Documentation Requirements for Employment Pass

You need to upload the following documents while applying for an Employment Pass online

Personal Particular page of applicant's Passport
CV of the applicant for employment history
Company's latest business profile or instant information registered with ACRA
A detailed description of products, services and activities of the company
Tenancy agreement of the place of business in Singapore
Photograph of applicant
Applicant's educational certificates such as degree certificate
The detailed job description of the applicant stating responsibilities and endorsed by the company
Documents in a language other than English needs translation by an official transaction service and a translated copy attached

Everything You Need to Know While Changing Your Company Secretary in Singapore

Employment Pass Application Process and Timeline

You can apply for an Employment Pass (EP) without being physically present in Singapore. Employers or authorised employment agents submit applications online to the Ministry of Manpower (MOM). It’s essential to understand eligibility requirements, including a minimum salary of SGD 4,500 (higher for senior roles), and ensure proper documentation before applying.

Key Steps Before Application:

After Submission:

Post-Approval Steps:

Request issuance of the EP online.
Pay fees (SGD 225 per pass and SGD 30 for a multiple-journey visa, if needed).
Provide an address for EP card delivery.
Use the Notification Letter (valid for one month) for work and travel until the EP card is issued.

Final Steps for EP Card Issuance:

This streamlined process ensures compliance with MOM guidelines and efficient issuance of the Employment Pass.

Employment Pass Card Issuance: Key Information

The EP Card is valid for two years and renewable every three years. The following details are required for issuance:

Applicant’s passport details and local residential address.
Contact details of authorised EP recipients.
Completed declaration form with IPA copy attached (signed by a company manager or higher).
Details of applicant’s Current immigration or visit pass details.
Local address for EP card delivery.
Disembarkation/Embarkation card and completed health declaration form.

Advantage of Employment Pass Over Other Singapore Work Visa

EP holders enjoy several advantages over other work Pass holders and the most common amongst the foreigners

EP holders can become owner or director of a company when S Pass holders can’t.

Can enter any line of work which doesn’t apply to other Pass holder categories and even personalized EP holders.

No additional specific criteria as applicable to personalized EP or EntrePass holders.

Employment Pass and Dependant Pass

EP holders can apply for Dependant’s Pass (DP) and Long term visit Pass subject to fulfilment of certain criteria and can make it easier for their family members to come to Singapore.

Want to learn more about Singapore Employment Pass?

Speak to one of our experts today.

Employment Pass application process in Singapore

Step

Description

Employer’s Application

The employer submits the Employment Pass application through the Ministry of Manpower’s (MOM) EP eService, providing the necessary documents and paying the required fee.

In-Principle Approval (IPA)

If approved, MOM issues an IPA letter, which serves as a single-entry visa for the candidate to enter Singapore.

Issuance of Pass

Upon arrival, the employer arranges for the issuance of the Employment Pass, submits additional details, and pays the issuance fee.

Registration

The candidate may need to register their fingerprints and photo at the Employment Pass Services Centre (EPSC) within two weeks of the pass issuance.

Receiving the Pass Card

After registration, the Employment Pass card is delivered to the specified address within five working days.

Employment Pass Renewal Process

Employment Pass (EP) renewal is required for continued employment beyond the initial two-year validity period. Employers can submit renewal applications up to six months before expiry and must ensure they reach the Ministry of Manpower (MOM) at least two months prior. Renewed passes are valid for three years, provided the passport remains valid. The renewal fee is SGD 225 per pass, and missing the deadline necessitates a new application. Approval is subject to MOM’s current regulations.

If the EP card is lost, the employer must apply for a replacement within one week.

Renewal Steps

Verification Changes

Updates to Employment Pass (COMPASS System)

Since September 1, 2023, Employment Pass applications must meet a minimum of 40 points under the Complementarity Assessment Framework (COMPASS). COMPASS evaluates salary, qualifications, company diversity, local employment support, and economic bonuses.

COMPASS Exemptions

Steps for Replacing an Employment Pass Card

1. Report and Apply for Replacement

If an Employment Pass card is lost, stolen, or damaged, the company or employment agent must apply for a replacement within one week.

For stolen cards, include a police report (in English) with the application.

2. Notify MOM if Overseas

If the Employment Pass holder is outside Singapore, the company must immediately inform MOM. MOM will issue a letter allowing the holder to re-enter Singapore.

3. Submit Replacement Application

Applications for replacement cards should be completed through MOM.

A non-refundable fee is required at the time of submitting the application.

4. Receive Replacement Card Letter

Once the application is approved, MOM will provide a replacement card letter with instructions for collecting the new card.

5. Collect the New Card

The new card must be collected from the Employment Pass Services Centre within four working days.

No appointment is mandatory, but the following documents are needed:

Original passport
Replacement card letter
Damaged card (if applicable)
Fill out the declaration form for any lost or stolen cards
Police report (for stolen cards)
Return of Lost Card

If the lost card is found, it must be returned to MOM.

Cancelling an Employment Pass

Timing: Please cancel within one week if the pass holder leaves employment or if the pass expires.

Pre-Cancellation: Obtain tax clearance from IRAS and arrange airfare for the pass holder’s return.

Cancellation Process: Use MOM to cancel the pass.

Post-Cancellation:

Return of Pass: The Employment Pass card must be returned to MOM within one week after cancellation.

Departure: Pass holders must present the Short-Term Visit Pass to immigration authorities when leaving Singapore.

Singapore Employment Pass for Corporates

Simplify your workforce expansion in Singapore with the Employment Pass, designed for skilled professionals. This pass enables corporations to onboard foreign talent while adhering to local regulations. We at IMC Group offer comprehensive assistance throughout the application and approval stages to ensure a smooth experience.

Navigating Singapore’s strict eligibility criteria and the complexities of the Employment Pass application can be daunting. Let our professional team assist you with company incorporation in Singapore, ensuring a solid foundation for your business endeavors in Singapore.

FAQs

How long does it take to get an Employment Pass in Singapore?

Processing times vary based on the application method. Online applications usually take about three weeks, while manual submissions can take at least eight weeks from receipt.

Is a medical test required for an Employment Pass?

A medical exam is not typically required for an Employment Pass, but it may be needed in certain cases. The approval letter will specify if a medical test is necessary.

Can I bring my family to Singapore on an Employment Pass?

Employment Pass holders earning at least S$6,000 per month are eligible to bring their family members to reside in Singapore. Each family member needs to submit a separate application. Legally married spouses and children under 21 can obtain a Dependent Pass.

What if I lose my job while holding an Employment Pass?

If you lose your job, you have 30 days to stay in Singapore and find a new job. If you don’t secure a new Employment Pass within this period, you must leave Singapore and re-enter once a new pass is approved. Exceeding the 30-day limit may result in penalties and future work pass difficulties.

What Happens If I Change Employers?

If an Employment Pass holder switches jobs, the new employer must apply for a new Employment Pass. This applies to moves between subsidiaries and parent companies as well. Mom will evaluate the candidate’s qualifications and eligibility as part of the new application process. There is no need to cancel the current Employment Pass before applying for the new one.

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Your Complete Guide to Singapore Employment Pass Requirements

Eligibility for Employment Pass

Documentation Requirements for Employment Pass

Employment Pass Application Process and Timeline

Employment Pass Card Issuance: Key Information

Advantage of Employment Pass Over Other Singapore Work Visa

Employment Pass and Dependant Pass

Want to learn more about Singapore Employment Pass?

Employment Pass application process in Singapore

Employment Pass Renewal Process

Steps for Replacing an Employment Pass Card

Cancelling an Employment Pass

Singapore Employment Pass for Corporates

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