Singapore Employment Pass
Our Singapore Employment Pass services support employers and professionals through eligibility assessment, documentation preparation, and MOM submissions, ensuring compliance at every stage of the application process.
What is a Singapore Employment Pass
The Singapore Employment Pass (EP) is a work visa for skilled foreign professionals, managers, and executives. This pass is popular with people who want to work in Singapore. Terra Advisory can help you check if you qualify, gather documents, manage appeals, and renew your Employment Pass.
Eligibility & Criteria
To get an Employment Pass, you must meet these requirements:
- Job Offer: You need a job offer from a company in Singapore. This company will sponsor your pass.
- Minimum Salary: You must earn at least the minimum monthly salary set by the Ministry of Manpower (MOM). This amount may change every year.
- Qualifications: You should have a recognized degree, professional certificate, or enough work experience.
- Fair Consideration: The job must be advertised to local candidates first. This is part of the Fair Consideration Framework.
- Company Ability: The company must prove it can pay your salary and is operating a stable business.
MOM will also consider the industry, the current economy, and your profile when you apply.
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
The Ministry of Manpower (MOM) uses the Complementarity Assessment Framework (COMPASS) to review Employment Pass applications. This is a points-based system that makes the process clearer and more predictable for employers.
COMPASS considers both personal and company factors. It helps decide if you are a good fit for Singapore’s workforce. To get approved, your application should show how you add value and support local talent.
For more details on who can apply and how the process works, visit the official MOM Employment Pass page.
How COMPASS Works
The COMPASS (Complementarity Assessment Framework) system uses a points-based approach to assess Employment Pass (EP) applications. To qualify, you need to score at least 40 points across six main criteria. These criteria are divided into four individual factors and two firm-related factors:
Individual Criteria
- Salary:
Your salary is compared to what locals earn in similar roles and industries. Higher salaries earn more points. - Qualifications:
Academic degrees and professional certificates are considered. Degrees from recognized institutions or strong professional experience will help you score higher. - Diversity:
Points are given if you add to the diversity of the company’s workforce, rather than coming from a nationality that’s already strongly represented in the company. - Skills Shortage:
If your occupation is in high demand or on Singapore’s skills shortage list, you’ll receive extra points.
Firm-Related Criteria
- Support for Local Employment: The company’s record of hiring and training local employees is checked. Companies that invest in local talent earn more points.
- Participation in Government Programs: Firms that take part in approved government programs to develop local workers or improve their business can get extra points.
Each criterion gives a set number of points. The total points from all six criteria decide if your application will be approved. Knowing these factors and how points are given is important for a successful EP application.
For the latest details, visit the official MOM COMPASS page.
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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
Check Before You Apply
First, we look at your skills and your company's details. We check your pay, education, and work history. This helps spot any issues early, so you have a better chance of approval.
Prepare and Send Documents
We collect your certificates, passport, and job offer. We make sure all details are correct. Then, we send your application using the myMOM Portal.
Reply to MOM Questions
Sometimes, the Ministry of Manpower (MOM) may ask for more details. If this happens, we help you answer quickly and clearly. Fast replies help move things along.
Get Your Approval and Pass
If you are approved, you will get an In-Principle Approval (IPA) letter. This lets you travel to Singapore. We help you with your medical check, fingerprinting, and getting your Employment Pass card.
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 a Singapore Employment Pass (EP)
The Singapore Employment Pass (EP) gives you many benefits. It helps you work and live in Singapore with less worry.
- You may bring your husband, wife, children, or parents if you qualify. You can apply for Dependant Passes or Long-Term Visit Passes for them.
- After working in Singapore for some time, you can apply for Permanent Residence (PR). This lets you and your family stay in Singapore for the long term.
- The EP allows you to work in many types of jobs. If you want to change jobs, your new employer just needs to apply for a new EP for you.
- EP holders can open bank accounts, rent homes, access healthcare, and enroll their children in schools.
- Working in Singapore gives you the chance to learn new things, meet new people, and grow in your career.
Limitations and Compliance for EP Holders
The EP has some rules you must follow. These rules help you and your employer obey Singapore’s laws.
- You can only work for the company that applied for your EP. If you want a new job, your new employer must apply for a new EP.
- If your job, job title, or employer changes, you must tell the Ministry of Manpower (MOM).
- You must keep meeting the minimum salary and keep your documents up to date.
- You must pay your taxes and follow Singapore’s work rules.
- Having an EP does not mean you will get PR. Your chances depend on your job, your pay, and how well you fit into Singapore.
Pathway to PR for EP Holders
Many people with an EP want to become Permanent Residents (PR) in Singapore. The most common way is through the PTS Scheme. Here are some ways to improve your chances:
- Keep a steady job to show you can support yourself and your family.
- Always pay your taxes on time.
- Take part in local events and learn about Singapore. This shows you are willing to be part of the community.
Applying for PR is a big step. It can help you and your family call Singapore home for years to come.
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 →
Singapore Employment Pass (EP) FAQ: Overview & Eligibility
What is an Employment Pass (EP)?
The Singapore Employment Pass (EP) lets skilled people from other countries work in Singapore. It is for professionals, managers, and executives. You need a job offer from a company in Singapore to apply. The EP is one of the most common work visas in the country.
Who is eligible for an EP?
To get an EP, you must have a job offer in Singapore. You need to earn at least S$5,000 per month. If you work in finance or have a lot of experience, the minimum salary is higher. You must also have good qualifications, like a university degree or a professional certificate. Your company must show that your skills are needed and that the job cannot be filled easily by a local worker.
What documents are required for an EP
You and your employer must send in some documents. These include a copy of your passport, your school certificates, and your job contract. Make sure all documents are correct and complete. This helps your application go smoothly.
Singapore Employment Pass (EP) FAQ: Application & Validity
How do you apply for an EP?
Your employer or an employment agent must apply for your EP using the Ministry of Manpower (MOM) online portal. They will send in your details, job information, and important documents. After you apply, MOM will check your application. You may need to send more documents or answer extra questions.
How long is an EP valid?
The EP is usually valid for 1 to 2 years when you first get it. When you renew, it can be valid for up to 3 years. Always check your pass expiry date. Renew your EP early to avoid problems with your job.
What if your EP is rejected or canceled?
If your EP application is rejected, your employer can appeal. They may send more documents or give extra information. If your EP is canceled, you will get a short-term visit pass. This pass lets you stay in Singapore for a short time to settle your plans or leave the country. Always ask about the reason for rejection. This helps you prepare better for the next application.
Living in Singapore on an Employment Pass
Can EP holders bring family to Singapore?
Yes. If you earn at least S$6,000 per month, you can bring your legally married spouse and unmarried children under 21 with a Dependant’s Pass. If you earn at least S$12,000 per month, you can also bring your parents with a Long-Term Visit Pass. Always check the latest salary rules before applying for family passes.
What are the benefits and restrictions of an EP?
EP holders can live and work in Singapore. You can open a bank account, use healthcare services, and send your children to local schools. But, you do not become a permanent resident automatically. You must apply for PR in a separate process. Also, you cannot work for another employer unless you get a new EP.
Where can I get more information?
For the latest rules, visit the Ministry of Manpower (MOM) Employment Pass page. If your case is complex or you need help with an appeal, you can talk to an immigration expert.