Singapore Employment Pass
Eligibility, Application & Renewal | Terra Advisory Services
What is a Singapore Employment Pass
The Singapore Employment Pass (EP) is a high-skilled work visa for foreign professionals, managers, and executives. It is one of the most common passes for foreign professionals. Terra Advisory helps with Singapore Employment Pass eligibility, documentation, appeals, and renewals.
Eligibility & Criteria
A job offer from a Singapore employer (sponsor).
Minimum fixed monthly salary (threshold set by MOM, adjusted annually).
Recognized qualifications: degree, professional credentials, or substantial work experience.
Company must satisfy Fair Consideration Framework (advertising job to local candidates, etc.).
Company must prove ability to pay salary and maintain business.
MOM may consider industry, present economic conditions, and applicant’s profile.
Learn More: 2025 Guide: Employment Pass, S Pass & Work Permit for Entrepreneurs in Singapore
Eligibility Criteria — Employment Pass
- Job offer from a Singapore company
- Minimum monthly salary (set by MOM)
- Recognized qualifications or experience
- Employer must comply with the Fair Consideration Framework
Application Process — Employment Pass
- Employer submits EP application
- MOM reviews documents and may request clarifications
- In-Principle Approval (IPA) is issued upon approval
- Complete medical and fingerprint registration
- Receive Employment Pass card
Validity & Renewal — Employment Pass
- Valid for 1–3 years
- Renewable while eligibility remains
- Changing employer requires reapplication
Understanding the COMPASS Framework for Employment Pass Applications
The Ministry of Manpower (MOM) in Singapore uses the Complementarity Assessment Framework (COMPASS) to evaluate Employment Pass (EP) applications. This points-based system makes the process more transparent and predictable for employers.
COMPASS assesses both individual and firm-related attributes. As a result, it determines whether an applicant is a good fit for the Singaporean workforce. To succeed, your application must show how the candidate adds value and complements local talent.
For full details on eligibility and the application process, visit the official MOM Employment Pass page.
How COMPASS Works
COMPASS awards points based on four individual criteria and two firm-related criteria. For example, an applicant’s salary and qualifications are compared with local standards. At the same time, the company’s commitment to hiring local staff and its engagement in government programs are also evaluated.
To pass, an application must score at least 40 points. Therefore, understanding these criteria is essential for a successful EP application.
A Deeper Look at the Employment Pass Application Process
Applying for a Singapore Employment Pass requires careful preparation. Each step in the process comes with its own requirements. Even a small mistake can cause delays or lead to rejection.
Key Steps in the Application Journey
Pre-Application Assessment
Before applying, we review the candidate’s qualifications and the company’s status. This includes verifying salary, education, and work experience against MOM’s standards. Early identification of issues helps us strengthen the application.
Documentation and Submission
Next, we gather essential documents such as educational certificates, passport copies, and job descriptions. We ensure everything is accurate and complete before submitting the application via the myMOM Portal.
Responding to MOM Clarifications
Occasionally, MOM may request more information. These queries must be addressed promptly and precisely. Our team assists in crafting clear responses to ensure smooth processing.
In-Principle Approval (IPA) & Issuance
Once approved, MOM issues an In-Principle Approval (IPA) letter, enabling entry into Singapore. We then guide you through medical exams, biometric registration, and the final Employment Pass card issuance.
Common Pitfalls in EP Applications and How to Avoid Them
Many qualified candidates face problems with their Employment Pass (EP) applications. However, most issues can be avoided through careful preparation and expert guidance.
Common Pitfalls
- Salary not matching industry benchmarks.
- Incomplete or inaccurate application forms.
- Missing required documents.
- Not meeting the Fair Consideration Framework, such as skipping the local job advertisement.
How to Avoid Them
- Double-check every detail before submission.
- Ensure all documents are complete and accurate.
- Follow all MOM and Fair Consideration Framework guidelines.
- Work with an experienced advisor for added assurance and smoother approval.
Benefits of Holding an Employment Pass (EP)
Holding a Singapore Employment Pass provides career flexibility and family stability. It supports long-term planning and professional growth.
- Bring dependants or parents (if eligible)
- Apply for Permanent Residence (PR) after a few years
- Enjoy flexibility in career progression and job mobility
Limitations and Compliance Requirements
The Employment Pass offers many advantages. However, both employers and employees must follow the Ministry of Manpower’s regulations to stay compliant.
- Work only for the sponsoring employer
- Notify MOM of any job role or employer changes
- Maintain the required salary threshold and valid documentation
- Comply with Singapore’s employment and tax laws
Pathway to Permanent Residence (PR)
Many EP holders later qualify for Singapore PR under the Professional, Technical and Skilled Workers (PTS) scheme. Stable employment, tax contributions, and integration strengthen your case.
Terra Advisory’s Expertise in Employment Pass Applications
We manage every stage of your Employment Pass journey. Our team handles eligibility checks, documentation, submission, renewals, and appeals with full compliance to MOM’s latest guidelines.
Contact Terra Advisory to start your Employment Pass application →
Employment Pass (EP) – Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is the minimum salary for an Employment Pass in 2025?
The minimum qualifying salary for a new Employment Pass application depends on the sector. For most sectors, the minimum is S$5,600 per month. For the Financial Services sector, it is higher at S$6,000 per month.
These thresholds increase progressively with age, so older and more experienced applicants must command a higher salary to qualify. If you do not meet these requirements, you may consider other options such as the S Pass or the Work Permit.
2. How long does the EP application process take?
Typically, the Ministry of Manpower (MOM) takes about 3 weeks to process an online Employment Pass application.
Processing may take longer if MOM requires additional information or clarification, so submitting a complete and accurate application is essential to avoid delays. For entrepreneurs, you may wish to consult our 2025 Guide for Employment Pass, S Pass, and Work Permit for Entrepreneurs.
3. Can I apply for an EP without a job offer?
No. A confirmed job offer from a Singapore-based employer is mandatory for an Employment Pass application. The employer must submit the EP application on your behalf via the myMOM Portal. If you are an entrepreneur looking to start a business, you may consider the Entrepreneur Pass (EntrePass) as an alternative.
4. What is the COMPASS framework?
COMPASS (Complementarity Assessment Framework) is a points-based system used by MOM to evaluate EP applications.
It assesses both individual factors (such as salary and qualifications) and firm-level attributes (such as support for local employment). A total of 40 points is needed to pass, ensuring transparent and holistic assessment. For more details, see our Singapore Employment Pass Guide.
5. What happens if my EP application is rejected?
If your EP application is rejected, your employer receives a rejection notice from MOM. It is possible to appeal within 3 months of the rejection.
A strong appeal usually requires new information or clarifications that address MOM’s concerns. We can assist in reviewing the rejection reasons and crafting a detailed appeal. If you wish to explore alternative work passes, consider the S Pass or Work Permit.
6. Can I bring my family to Singapore on an Employment Pass?
Yes. EP holders who meet the minimum salary criteria can bring their families:
- Dependant’s Pass – for a legally married spouse and unmarried children under 21.
- Long-Term Visit Pass (LTVP) – may be available for parents and other family members, subject to MOM’s requirements.
Additionally, EP holders may later be eligible to apply for Permanent Residence (PR) in Singapore.
7. Can I be a director in another company if I hold an EP?
In general, an EP holder is only allowed to work for the sponsoring employer. To take up a directorship or role in another company, you typically need a Letter of Consent (LOC) from MOM.
Such requests are reviewed on a case-by-case basis. If you are interested in setting up your own business in Singapore, explore our Entrepreneur Guide.
8. Do I need to cancel my EP if I change jobs?
Yes. The Employment Pass is tied to one employer. If you change jobs, your current employer must cancel your EP, and your new employer must submit a new EP application.
The existing EP cannot simply be transferred between employers. For more on changing employers or alternative work passes, see our guides on the S Pass and Work Permit.