Singapore Employment Pass 2025: Eligibility, Documents & Application Process

This guide covers Singapore’s Employment Pass (EP) rules and steps. It uses info from the Ministry of Manpower (MOM) and reliable sources.

Key Facts at a Glance

• What the EP is: A work pass for foreign pros, managers, and execs to work in Singapore.
• Who applies: Only the Singapore employer or an appointed agent can apply. Candidates can’t do it themselves.
• Minimum qualifying salary: Starts at S5,000permonth(general);S5,000permonth(general);S5,500 in financial services. It goes up with age, up to mid-40s.
• Points framework: New EPs need 40 points under COMPASS, unless exempt.
• Advertising requirement: Most jobs must be posted on MyCareersFuture for at least 14 days under the Fair Consideration Framework. Some exemptions apply.
• Processing time: Online apps usually take about 10 business days. Complex ones may take longer.
• Fees: S105applicationfee;S105applicationfee;S225 issuance fee; S$30 for multiple-journey visa if needed.
• Validity: Up to 2 years at first; up to 3 years on renewal if eligible.
• Quota/levy: No levy or quota for EPs.

For more details, see MOM’s Employment Pass overview and Apply for an Employment Pass.

Eligibility Check

Core Requirements

• You need a job offer in Singapore for a pro, manager, or exec role.
• Your fixed monthly salary must meet the EP minimum for your field and level. Check MOM’s Employment Pass overview for details.
• Your skills and experience must fit the job.
• The employer must be a registered Singapore company and follow fair hiring rules.

The COMPASS Points Framework

Most new EP apps from Sep 1, 2023, and renewals from Sep 1, 2024, use COMPASS. You need 40 points from these areas:

• C1: Salary (compared to local peers).
• C2: Qualifications (from approved schools and certs).
• C3: Diversity (helps build a mixed workforce).
• C4: Support for Local Employment (company’s local hiring record).

Bonus points for:

• C5: Skills Bonus (jobs on the Shortage Occupation List).
• C6: Strategic Economic Priorities.

Exemptions include high-salary candidates and some company transfers under trade deals. Learn more on MOM COMPASS framework.

Self-Assessment

Try MOM’s Self-Assessment Tool (SAT) to check salary fit and likely results. It’s not a final approval, but it helps plan.

Also Check: Netherlands Highly Skilled Migrant Visa Process: Salary Thresholds, Requirements and Online Application Guide

Fair Consideration Framework (FCF)

Employers must usually post the job on MyCareersFuture for 14 days and review local applicants before an EP app. Check MOM’s site for exemptions.

Required Documents

Get clear, full docs ready. MOM may ask for more anytime.

Employer

• ACRA business profile and company info.
• Full job description and fixed monthly salary.
• MyCareersFuture job ad ID (if needed for FCF).
• Contact person and address for card delivery.

Candidate

• Passport biodata page (clear copy).
• Detailed CV with past roles and duties.
• Education certs and transcripts (diploma or higher), plus proof if used for COMPASS points.
• Pro licenses if the job needs them.
• Past job letters or refs if asked.

Document Format and Translation

If docs aren’t in English, add a translation by a certified translator, notary, or the issuer, as MOM says. Keep scans clear and match what MOM wants. Bad scans can slow things down.

Education Verification for COMPASS

To claim points for quals (Criterion C2), get verification from an approved agency. See MOM’s COMPASS and EP app pages for guidance.

Step-by-Step Process

1. Check role and candidate fit: Make sure the job needs an EP and salary meets the benchmark. Use the SAT. Review COMPASS on MOM’s site.
2. Meet Fair Consideration Framework (FCF) obligations: Post the job on MyCareersFuture for 14 days unless exempt. Keep ad and hiring records.
3. Prepare documents and verify qualifications: Gather all employer and candidate docs. Get education checks if claiming COMPASS points.
4. Submit the EP application online: Employer or agent uses MOM’s portal. Pay S$105 fee. Follow MOM’s guide to Apply for an Employment Pass.
5. Track status and respond to MOM: Answer any requests quickly to avoid delays.
6. Outcome: In-Principle Approval (IPA) or rejection: If approved, IPA lists next steps like medicals. If rejected, appeal with new info.
7. Before arrival (if outside Singapore): IPA may act as entry visa for some. Do any medicals as noted.
8. Pass issuance: After arrival, employer finishes online and pays S$225. Give photo, address, and other details.
9. Biometrics registration (if required): Candidate may need fingerprints and photo at MOM center. Check IPA for details.
10. EP card delivery: Card arrives at the address in a few days after all steps.

Fees and Timelines

• Application fee: S$105 per app.
• Issuance fee: S$225 per EP.
• Multiple-journey visa: S$30 if needed.
• Processing time: About 10 business days for online; longer for checks or manual.

For current fees and steps, visit MOM’s Apply for an Employment Pass page.

Practical Tips

• Match salary to role level: It rises with age and is higher in finance.
• Stay accurate: Job title, duties, and pay must match the ad and contract.
• Verify early: Do education checks before applying for COMPASS points.
• Keep FCF records: Save ad ID and interview notes to show fair process.
• Expect checks: MOM may call employers or schools to confirm details.