Singapore S Pass Guide
The Singapore S Pass lets mid-skilled professionals work in Singapore. Discover key eligibility, salary, and application essentials with Terra Advisory Services.
Singapore S Pass: Requirements and Application Guide
The Singapore S Pass is a work pass for mid-skilled professionals and technicians. It sits between the Employment Pass and the Work Permit. Here you will learn S Pass eligibility, documents, processing times, and renewal tips. Terra Advisory Services guides you from assessment 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
• Minimum fixed salary that varies by sector and experience
• Employer meets quota and pays foreign worker levy
• Clean background, medical checks, and accurate declarations
Salary thresholds and quotas change. Always verify the latest rules on the Ministry of Manpower (MOM).
A Deeper Dive into S Pass Eligibility Criteria
Securing a Singapore S Pass means meeting several important requirements set by the Ministry of Manpower (MOM). While a job offer is the first step, employers must also manage the quota and levy system. This system helps balance the number of foreign workers with the local workforce. Therefore, your employer’s ability to hire you for an S Pass depends on how many local employees they have.
The salary requirement is another key factor. The minimum qualifying salary is not fixed. Instead, it is benchmarked against the pay for local Associate Professionals and Technicians. As a result, the required salary increases with age and experience. Employers must offer a competitive salary that meets these benchmarks for a successful application.
S Pass Application Process
1.Employer assessment.
2. Document preparation.
3. Online submission via MOM.
4. In-Principle Approval (IPA).
5. Issuance with medical checks and biometrics.
Navigating the S Pass Application: Step-by-Step
The S Pass application involves several key stages. Understanding each step helps employers and appointed agents avoid delays and improve approval chances when applying through the myMOM Portal.
Employer’s Quota and Levy Assessment
Before applying, the employer must confirm there is sufficient S Pass quota and that the foreign worker levy can be paid for each S Pass holder. Applications cannot proceed unless these requirements are met.
Document Preparation
Gather all required documents, including the applicant’s educational certificates, passport details, and the company’s business registration information. Any non-English documents must be accompanied by an official translation. Accurate, complete documentation is critical.
Online Application Submission
Submit the S Pass application via the myMOM Portal. Processing typically takes around three weeks, though timelines can vary. MOM may request additional details during this period — prompt, clear responses help keep the application moving.
Receiving the In-Principle Approval (IPA)
If approved, MOM issues an In-Principle Approval (IPA) letter. The IPA allows the S Pass holder to enter Singapore and sets out the conditions and next steps required before the pass can be issued.
Pass Issuance and Card Registration
After arrival in Singapore, the S Pass holder completes a medical examination and biometric registration. Once these are done, MOM issues the S Pass card — the official proof of identity and work authorisation in Singapore.
Validity, renewal and changes
The S Pass is usually valid for one to three years. You can renew it if you keep meeting the criteria. A change of employer typically requires a fresh application. Keep salary, job scope, and corporate details up to date to avoid delays.
Key Considerations for S Pass Holders
Getting your S Pass is a big achievement, but it comes with ongoing responsibilities. For example, your S Pass is linked to your employer. If you want to change jobs, your new employer must apply for a new S Pass. You cannot transfer your existing pass.
Renewal is not automatic. Your employer must apply for renewal before your current pass expires. MOM will assess the renewal using the current eligibility criteria.
Finally, the S Pass can be a pathway to Permanent Residence (PR) in Singapore. After working in Singapore for a period and showing economic and social integration, S Pass holders may become eligible to apply for PR.
Bring family to Singapore
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.
S Pass – Frequently Asked Questions
The S Pass is designed for mid-skilled technical staff, while the Employment Pass (EP) is for high-skilled professionals, managers, and executives. The key differences are in the salary thresholds, with the S Pass having a lower minimum qualifying salary. Additionally, S Pass holders are subject to a quota and a monthly levy that employers must pay, whereas the EP is not.
The S Pass quota is a ceiling on the number of S Pass holders a company can hire. It is based on the number of local employees (Singapore Citizens and Permanent Residents) on the company's payroll. The purpose is to ensure a balanced workforce and encourage local hiring.
The foreign worker levy is a monthly fee employers must pay for each S Pass holder. The amount varies depending on the percentage of S Pass holders in the total workforce — a higher percentage results in a higher levy. This system encourages companies to maintain a strong local workforce.
Yes, S Pass holders may bring their family members if they meet MOM’s minimum salary requirement. Eligible family members include a legally married spouse and unmarried children under 21, who can apply for Dependant's Passes.
An S Pass is typically issued for up to 2 years and is renewable, provided that both the employer and pass holder continue meeting eligibility, salary, quota, and levy requirements.
Yes, you can upgrade from an S Pass to an Employment Pass if your salary and qualifications meet the EP criteria. Your employer must submit a new EP application on your behalf — a common path for mid-skilled professionals advancing in their careers.
If you leave your job, your employer must cancel your S Pass. Upon cancellation, you typically receive a 30-day Short-Term Visit Pass (STVP) to settle affairs or find a new job. A new employer must apply for a new S Pass for you.
Yes, all employers must provide medical insurance for S Pass holders, covering at least S$15,000 per year for inpatient care and day surgery. This ensures adequate healthcare coverage for all foreign employees in Singapore.