SINGAPORE IMMIGRATION PALS

1. Introduction to Singapore Work Passes

Singapore offers a range of work passes designed to attract global talent and support its dynamic economy. These passes allow foreign professionals, entrepreneurs, and skilled workers to live and work in Singapore legally, depending on their qualifications, job roles, and business intentions. Whether you’re an experienced executive, a startup founder, or hiring overseas staff for your company, understanding the various work pass options is essential for ensuring compliance and a smooth transition. 

2. Key types of work pass available and key eligibility criteria

Work Pass	Minimum Salary Requirement	Who It’s For	Key Eligibility Criteria	Other Requirements/Notes
Employment Pass (EP)	From S$5,600/month(age 23), increasing with age. Higher for financial sector.	Foreign professionals, managers, executives	– Job offer from a Singapore employer- Educational qualifications – Must pass COMPASS framework (unless exempted)	– Must advertise job on MyCareersFuture for 14 days (FCF) – Valid for up to 2 years initially, renewable
S Pass	From S$3,300/month(non-financial) and S$3,800/month(financial), varies by age	Mid-level skilled workers (e.g. technicians, supervisors)	– Job offer in Singapore – (Optional) qualifications check – Use SAT to assess eligibility	– Subject to levy and quota per sector – Must advertise job under FCF – Valid up to 2 years, renewable
EntrePass	No salary requirement	Foreign entrepreneurs starting a venture-backed or innovative business	– Start a private limited company in Singapore – Own ≥ 30% share- Meet at least one innovation criterion(e.g., IP, investor backing, accelerator support)	– Some business types (e.g. cafés, massage parlours) are ineligible – Valid for 1 year, renewable if renewal criteria met
Personalised Employment Pass (PEP)	≥ S$22,500/month(last drawn for overseas), and must earn ≥ S$270,000/year locally	High-earning professionals wanting job flexibility	– Not tied to an employer – Not a business owner/freelancer – Not currently an EP holder	– Valid for 3 years, non-renewable – Can remain unemployed for up to 6 months
Overseas Networks & Expertise Pass (ONE Pass)	S$30,000/month (12-month average), OR exceptional achievements in arts, sports, academia	Top-tier foreign professionals and talent across industries	– Meet salary or achievement criteria – Worked with/for an established company overseas	– Valid for 5 years – Can operate businesses and take on multiple roles – Exempt from FCF and COMPASS
Tech.Pass	Last-drawn fixed monthly salary ≥ S$22,500 (or equivalent) in the past year	Experienced tech entrepreneurs and experts	– At least 5 cumulative years in leadership roles at: • a tech company valued at ≥ US$500 million or with ≥ US$30 million funding raised, OR • a tech venture capital firm managing ≥ US$500 million assets under management	– Allows holder to run businesses, consult, invest, or work – Valid for 2 years, renewable
Work Permit	No fixed minimum salary (usually lower-wage roles)	Semi-skilled foreign workers in sectors like construction, manufacturing, marine, process, services, or domestic work	– Job offer from an eligible employer – Meet sector-specific criteria (age, nationality, skill, source country)	– Subject to quota, levy, medical exams, and security bond – Typically valid for up to 2 years, renewable

3. General application process for work passes

1. Check Eligibility
   • Use MOM’s Self-Assessment Tool (SAT) for EP and S Pass to pre-check eligibility.
   • Ensure your job and qualifications meet pass-specific criteria (salary, experience, industry).
2. Prepare Documents
   Common documents include:
   • Passport details and personal particulars of the applicant
   • Job offer letter or contract
   • Company details (for employer)
   • Educational certificates and professional qualifications
   • Employer’s business registration information (e.g., ACRA documents)
   • Additional supporting documents depending on pass type
3. Employer Submits Application Online
   • Employer or appointed employment agent submits the work pass application via MOM’s online portal (EP Online / WP Online / S Pass Online).
   • For EntrePass and Tech.Pass, applications might be done via specific portals or channels linked to MOM and EDB.
4. Application Processing
   • MOM reviews the application, typically within 3 to 8 weeks depending on pass type.
   • MOM may request additional documents or clarifications during this period.
   • For passes subject to quotas/levies (like S Pass or Work Permit), processing depends also on availability.
5. Approval or Rejection
   • Once approved, MOM issues an In-Principle Approval (IPA) letter valid for a certain period (usually 6 months).
   • If rejected, MOM will inform the employer with reasons; employers may appeal or reapply.
6. Pass Issuance and Collection
   • After IPA, the applicant must enter Singapore (if outside) within the IPA validity period.
   • The applicant completes a medical examination (if required) and submits fingerprints and photo at the MOM office or appointed clinic.
   • Pass card (e.g., EP card) is issued and collected—often linked to the applicant’s Singapore NRIC number.
7. Post-Issuance Compliance
   • Employers must adhere to Fair Consideration Framework (FCF) and other regulations.
   • Notify MOM of any changes in employment terms, resignation, or termination.
   • Renew the pass before expiry if needed.

Notes:

• Some passes (like PEP or Tech.Pass) allow individuals to apply without employer sponsorship.
• The EntrePass and Tech.Pass have additional business innovation or investment criteria that must be demonstrated.
• Work Permit applicants often undergo additional security bond and medical requirements.
• For the specific criteria and application process of a specific work pass, please reach out for a personalised consultation.

Have a question? Drop us a message below or chat with us on WhatsApp