Singapore Work Passes
Singapore Work Passes: (WP / S Pass / EP / PEP / One Pass)
Singapore offers different types of Passes and Permits to foreigners who need to stay in Singapore for work. These passes are Employment Pass, S Pass, Personalized Employment Pass, and Overseas Network & Expertise Pass. These short-term passes allow foreigners to legally stay employed in Singapore. These passes can also be a milestone to obtain Singapore’s PR in the next step.
Singapore's Ministry of Manpower (MOM) handles applications for these work passes. Each pass has different eligibility and selection criteria.
Type of Work Pass
Employment Pass (EP)
The Singapore Employment Pass (EP) is designed for foreign professionals with a good degree and specialized skillset, managers, and executives seeking to work in Singapore. It's a key pathway to establishing a career in this dynamic city-state.
Eligibility hinges on possessing a job offer in Singapore, demonstrating relevant qualifications, and earning a qualifying salary (min. at least $5000 & $5500 in financial service).
Documents Needed typically include a valid passport, educational certificates, professional licenses, employment contract, and company registration details.
Application Process involves two stages. Stage 1 assesses the applicant's salary against the EP Qualifying Salary, which varies by age and sector. Stage 2 utilizes the Complementarity Assessment Framework (COMPASS), a points-based system evaluating individual and company attributes. Points are awarded for qualifications, salary, diversity, and support for local employment.
EP Qualifying Salary (Stage 1): The minimum salary (min. at least $5000 & $5500 in financial service) threshold is crucial and varies with age. It ensures EP holders contribute to Singapore's economy. Specific figures are regularly updated by the Ministry of Manpower (MOM).
COMPASS (Stage 2): This framework evaluates factors beyond salary, ensuring a holistic assessment. Applicants must score sufficient points based on criteria like qualifications, diversity, and company support for local employment.
Application Issuance: Once both stages are completed, the MOM issues an In-Principle Approval (IPA) letter. Upon arrival, the pass holder completes the necessary formalities, and the EP is issued. The entire process emphasizes attracting high-caliber talent to enhance Singapore's workforce.
S Pass
The Singapore S Pass is designed for mid-skilled foreign workers who contribute significantly to Singapore's economy. It provides a pathway for those with relevant qualifications and experience to work in Singapore.
Eligibility requires a valid job offer in Singapore, a minimum monthly salary, and relevant qualifications or work experience. Employers must also meet the S Pass quota, which limits the number of S Pass holders they can employ.
Documents Needed typically include a valid passport, educational certificates or technical qualifications, employment contract, and company registration details. Depending on the industry, additional documents may be required.
Application Process involves submitting an online application through the Ministry of Manpower (MOM) portal. The application is assessed based on the applicant's salary, qualifications, and the employer's quota. The salary must meet a minimum threshold, which is regularly updated by the MOM.
Application Issuance: Upon successful evaluation, the MOM issues an In-Principle Approval (IPA) letter. The applicant must then complete the necessary formalities upon arrival in Singapore, including medical examinations and registration. Once these are completed, the S Pass is issued. The process emphasizes attracting skilled workers to support Singapore's industries while maintaining a balance in the local workforce. The quota system ensures that employers prioritize hiring local talent.
Personalized Employment Pass (PEP)
The Singapore Personalized Employment Pass (PEP) offers high-earning foreign professionals greater flexibility. It's not tied to a specific employer, allowing job changes.
Eligibility: Requires a high fixed monthly salary, either currently or in the immediate past.
Documents Needed: Passport, salary proof, and employment details.
Application Process: Online submission to the Ministry of Manpower (MOM). The assessment focuses on salary criteria.
Application Issuance: Upon approval, an In-Principle Approval (IPA) is issued. After fulfilling the formalities, the PEP is granted. It provides a unique opportunity for top talent to navigate Singapore's job market freely.
Overseas Network & Expertise Pass (ONE)
The Singapore Overseas Networks & Expertise Pass (ONE) targets top-tier talent in business, arts, sports, and academia. It offers flexibility for individuals to engage in multiple activities.
Eligibility: Requires proven exceptional achievements in their respective fields.
Documents Needed: Includes detailed portfolios, testimonials, and proof of past accomplishments.
Application Process: Involves submitting a comprehensive application to the Ministry of Manpower (MOM), emphasizing outstanding contributions. Assessment is rigorous.
Application Issuance: Upon approval, an In-Principle Approval (IPA) is granted. After completing the necessary formalities, the ONE Pass is issued, enabling holders to pursue diverse opportunities in Singapore.
Tech.Pass
The Singapore Tech.Pass aims to attract leading tech talent globally. It provides flexibility for tech professionals to engage in various activities, including starting businesses, working for multiple companies, and mentoring.
Eligibility: Requires proven expertise in the tech sector, demonstrated by meeting specific criteria related to salary, experience in leading tech companies, or experience developing successful tech products.
Documents Needed: Includes evidence of professional achievements, such as employment records, company valuations, product user data, and relevant qualifications.
Application Process: Involves submitting an application to the Singapore Economic Development Board (EDB), with a thorough assessment of the applicant's tech expertise and contributions.
Application Issuance: Upon approval, an In-Principle Approval (IPA) is granted. After completing the required formalities in Singapore, the Tech.Pass is issued, allowing the holder to pursue diverse tech-related activities.
EntrePass
The Singapore EntrePass enables foreign entrepreneurs to start and operate innovative businesses. It targets those with venture-backed or innovative tech businesses, or those running businesses with significant research and development.
Eligibility: Requires demonstrating innovative business ideas, substantial funding, or unique entrepreneurial experience.
Documents Needed: Includes a detailed business plan, proof of funding, academic certificates, and relevant licenses.
Application Process: Submitting an application to the Ministry of Manpower (MOM) via Enterprise Singapore, involving an assessment of the business's innovation and viability
Application Issuance: Upon approval, an In-Principle Approval (IPA) is issued. After completing formalities, the EntrePass is granted, allowing the entrepreneur to operate their business in Singapore.
Work Permit
The Singapore Work Permit is for semi-skilled foreign workers in sectors like construction, manufacturing, marine, and process. It's employer-tied and has specific nationality requirements.
Eligibility: Requires a valid job offer and meeting nationality criteria. Employers must adhere to quota and levy regulations.
Documents Needed: Includes passport, relevant skill certifications, and employer's declaration.
Application Process: Employers apply online via the Ministry of Manpower (MOM), adhering to sector-specific requirements and levies.
Application Issuance: Upon approval, an In-Principle Approval (IPA) is issued. Workers complete necessary formalities upon arrival, and the Work Permit is granted.
Why Choose Nextstep Immigrations to
Assist You in the Application Process?
Nextstop Immigrations offers personalized case management services. We increase the competitiveness of your application for Work Pass in Singapore. Our team of experts will guide you through the application process and brief you about Singapore’s WP / S Pass / EP / PEP / One Pass requirements. We help you collect important documents and identify factors that can increase your chances of approval.
With over 45 years of collective experience, our team members have handled hundreds of work pass applications effectively with a 100% success rate. Instead of holding back the information, we believe in educating people to understand the process and empowering them to become future Singapore citizens. With a personalized guidance system that suits every client's profile, let us help you with your work pass application.
For any queries and questions regarding your work pass application for Singapore, book a free consultation with our experts today. See you soon!
Our Pricing
Processing Fee: S$105 | Issuance Fee: S$225 | Multiple Journey Visa (Where Applicable) S$30