Singapore S Pass Guide
Our Singapore S Pass advisory services support employers and mid-skilled professionals with eligibility assessment, quota planning, and application management. We ensure alignment with MOM requirements, salary thresholds, and regulatory compliance throughout the application and renewal process.
Singapore S Pass: Requirements and Application Guide
Overview of the Singapore S Pass
The Singapore S Pass is a work pass for mid-skilled professionals and technicians. It sits between the Employment Pass and the Work Permit. In this guide, you will learn about S Pass eligibility, required documents, processing times, and renewal tips. In addition, if you are setting up a new business, start with company incorporation in Singapore so your hiring and pass applications follow the correct order. Moreover, Terra Advisory Services supports you from the initial assessment all the way to approval.
Who Is Eligible for the Singapore S Pass?
- A confirmed job offer from a Singapore employer (the sponsor)
- Relevant qualifications or strong technical experience
- A minimum fixed salary that varies by sector and experience
- Employer must meet quota and pay the foreign worker levy
- Clean background, medical checks, and accurate declarations
Because salary thresholds and quotas change frequently, always verify requirements on the official Ministry of Manpower (MOM) website.
S Pass Eligibility Criteria
Both the employer and the applicant must meet specific requirements set by the Ministry of Manpower.
Job Offer and Employer Sponsorship
To begin, the applicant must have a confirmed job offer from a Singapore-registered company. This employer must also be eligible to hire foreign staff under the S Pass framework.
Salary Requirements
Applicants must meet minimum salary benchmarks, which vary by age and sector. These requirements are reviewed periodically by MOM. Furthermore, employers are responsible for maintaining salary compliance throughout the employment period.
Qualifications and Work Experience
Applicants are assessed based on their academic qualifications, professional certifications, and relevant work experience. Therefore, it is important to provide supporting documents that demonstrate your suitability for the role.
Quota and Levy Requirements
Employers must comply with S Pass quota limits. They are also required to pay the applicable foreign worker levy for each S Pass holder. Notably, quota availability will depend on the company’s workforce composition.
S Pass Application Process
We use a structured and compliance-focused approach for S Pass applications to help employers and candidates stay aligned with prevailing regulatory requirements. Where workforce planning is linked to business setup or ongoing obligations, we can also support related considerations such as setting up a company in Singapore and post-incorporation compliance and annual filings .
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Eligibility and Quota Assessment
We assess eligibility, company quota availability, and salary compliance prior to submission to ensure the application is aligned with current requirements. -
Documentation Preparation
We prepare and review the required supporting documents, including employment contracts, academic certificates, and relevant corporate records. -
Application Submission and Follow-Up
Applications are submitted to MOM, with follow-up and responses to regulatory queries managed as required during the review process. -
In-Principle Approval and Pass Issuance
If approved, post-approval steps such as medical examinations and biometric registration are completed before the S Pass card is issued.
Validity, renewal and changes
S Passes are typically issued for up to two years. Renewal is possible, provided ongoing eligibility and regulatory compliance are maintained. If you change employers, a new S Pass application is required. It is advisable to submit renewal applications well in advance to avoid disruptions.
Employer Responsibilities and Ongoing Compliance
Employers of S Pass holders must:
- Maintain quota and levy compliance.
- Provide mandatory medical insurance coverage.
- Notify MOM of any changes in employment terms.
- Ensure ongoing adherence to employment and immigration regulations.
Whenever S Pass employment supports corporate growth or restructuring, employers should also remain aligned with corporate compliance requirements.
S Pass holders may sponsor family if they meet the current minimum salary threshold. Your spouse or children may qualify for a Dependant’s Pass or a Long-Term Visit Pass (LTVP), subject to MOM/ICA rules.
Relationship Between S Pass and Other Immigration Options
Depending on role and seniority, employers may also consider the Employment Pass for senior professionals.
In addition, long-term workforce planning could include Permanent Residence in Singapore.
For broader workforce mobility and immigration advice, please visit our Singapore immigration and visa services page.
Regulatory and Compliance Considerations
Immigration outcomes are subject to assessment and approval by MOM based on current regulations and each applicant’s circumstances. While we provide advisory and documentation support aligned with prevailing requirements, approval outcomes are determined by the authorities.
Official Resources
S Pass – Frequently Asked Questions
Eligibility and Classification
What is the difference between an S Pass and an Employment Pass?
The S Pass is for mid-level skilled professionals and technicians. In comparison, the Employment Pass targets senior professionals, managers, and executives. S Pass holders are subject to quota and levy requirements, while EP holders are not.
Who can apply for an S Pass?
The employer must submit the S Pass application for a foreign employee who meets all MOM requirements. Therefore, the process is employer-led.
Quota and Levy
How does the S Pass quota work?
The Ministry of Manpower calculates the S Pass quota based on the local workforce ratio. Consequently, companies with fewer local employees face stricter quota limits.
How is the S Pass levy determined?
Employers pay a monthly levy for each S Pass holder. Notably, higher percentages of S Pass holders lead to higher levy rates.
Validity, Renewal, and Changes
How long is an S Pass valid?
Typically, an S Pass is valid for up to two years. If all requirements are met, the employer can renew it.
Can an S Pass holder upgrade to an Employment Pass?
Yes. If the employee meets the new criteria, the employer can apply for an Employment Pass. Ultimately, MOM decides on the approval.
What happens if employment ends?
If employment ends, the employer cancels the S Pass. As a result, the employee usually receives a Short-Term Visit Pass.
Family and Insurance
Can S Pass holders bring family to Singapore?
Yes. If the salary requirement is met, the employer can apply for Dependant’s Passes or Long-Term Visit Passes for eligible family members.
Is medical insurance mandatory for S Pass holders?
Employers must provide medical insurance of at least SGD 15,000 per year for each S Pass holder.
