How to Apply for Employment Pass in Singapore

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What is an Employment Pass?

The Employment Pass (EP) is a visa that allows foreign professionals, managers, and executives to work in Singapore. It’s designed for skilled professionals, offering them the opportunity to contribute to Singapore’s economy without foreign worker levies or quotas.

Key Features:

  • No foreign worker levy or quota restrictions.
  • Family members can join under a Dependant’s Pass or Long-Term Visit Pass (subject to eligibility).
  • EP holders are subject to Singaporean income tax.

For further details, visit the Ministry of Manpower Employment Pass page.

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Who Can Apply for an Employment Pass?

The Employment Pass is available to foreign professionals, managers, and executives (PMEs) who meet specific qualifying criteria. Employers in Singapore must apply for the pass on behalf of the candidate. Since choosing the right support can be essential, explore these top immigration agencies in Singapore to ensure you have the best help with your application process.

Basic Requirements:

  • The applicant must have a job offer from a Singapore-based employer.
  • The employer must adhere to the Fair Consideration Framework (FCF), which ensures fair hiring practices.

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Eligibility Criteria for Employment Pass

Qualifying Salary

The minimum qualifying salary for an Employment Pass is:

  • SGD $5,000 per month for most sectors.
  • SGD $5,500 per month for candidates in the financial services sector.

These thresholds increase with age, with older candidates expected to earn higher salaries (up to SGD $10,500 by age 45). The salary thresholds will increase in January 2025 to SGD $5,600 for most sectors and SGD $6,200 for the financial services sector.

For a deeper understanding of the options available, you might also be interested in reading how to apply for the Personalised Employment Pass (PEP), which offers flexibility for certain high-earning professionals.

COMPASS: Points-based System

The Complementary Assessment Framework (COMPASS) is a points-based system that evaluates Employment Pass applications across four key criteria:

  1. Salary: Points awarded based on salary relative to local wages.
  2. Qualifications: Evaluates academic or professional qualifications.
  3. Diversity: Assesses workforce nationality diversity.
  4. Support for Local Employment: Evaluates company’s contribution to local employment.

Candidates must score at least 40 points to qualify. For more information, check the COMPASS guide.

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Step-by-Step Guide to Applying for Employment Pass

1. Before You Apply

  1. Job Advertisement: Post the vacancy on MyCareersFuture for 14 days, unless exempt.
  2. Eligibility Check:Use the Self-Assessment Tool (SAT) to determine if the candidate qualifies. If they don’t, it’s advisable not to proceed.

Required Documents

  • Candidate’s passport details.
  • The company’s ACRA business profile.
  • Educational qualifications and transcripts.
  • Job offer or employment contract.
  • MyCareersFuture job advertisement details.

Additional Documents:

Sectors like healthcare or law may require extra documentation (e.g., professional licenses).

For businesses considering employing entrepreneurs, the Singapore Entrepreneur Pass (EntrePass) scheme is also an alternative worth exploring.

Exemptions from Advertising Requirement

While job vacancies must generally be advertised on MyCareersFuture for 14 days, exemptions apply if:

  • The company has fewer than 10 employees.
  • The role offers a salary of SGD $22,500 or more.
  • It’s a short-term position (less than 1 month).
  • The role is filled by a local transferee within the company.

For more information, visit the Fair Consideration Framework.

2. Submit Your Application

You can submit an application using myMOM portal. 

  •  Log in to the myMOM portal using your Corppass. If you have not registered for Corppass, you can do so here.
  • After logging in, click on Work Passes at the top of the page. From the Quick Menu, select Apply for A Pass.
  • Fill in the required fields, such as the employing company’s UEN and pass type.
  • Complete the application by uploading the necessary documents (e.g., candidate’s educational qualifications, passport copy) and ensure your organisation’s turnover for the past 3 years is updated before submission. You can update the turnover information via EP eService or by submitting a form here if you do not have direct access to EP eService.
  • Pay the SGD $105 fee via GIRO, Visa, Mastercard, or Amex.

Processing Time

Applications are usually processed within 10 business days.

3. Employment Pass Application Approved

In-Principle Approval (IPA)

Upon approval, the IPA letter is issued, allowing the candidate to enter Singapore and complete the Employment Pass issuance process. The IPA is valid for 6 months.

Issue the Employment Pass

Once the candidate arrives in Singapore with the IPA, the Employment Pass must be issued within 6 months. Here’s what you need to do:

  1. Login to myMOM portal:
    • Provide necessary details (e.g., passport info, Singapore contact details, and residential address).
  2. Pay the Issuance Fees:
    • SGD $225 for each pass.
    • SGD $30 for a Multiple Journey Visa (if applicable).
  3. Receive the Notification Letter
    • Both employer and candidate receive this via email. It allows the candidate to start work and travel in and out of Singapore while awaiting the pass card. The notification letter is valid for 1 month, but an extension can be requested if necessary.

Registration of Fingerprints and Photo

When: Within 2 weeks of pass issuance.If required, the candidate must schedule an appointment at the Employment Pass Services Centre (EPSC) to register their fingerprints and photo.

They should bring:

  • Original passport
  • Appointment letter
  • Notification letter

Receiving the Employment Pass Card

When: Within 5 working days after registration or document verification.Once the card is ready, it will be delivered to the address provided. If the delivery fails after two attempts, the card can be collected from the EPSC after 3 working days (no appointment needed).

4. Appealing a Rejected Employment Pass Application

If your Employment Pass application is rejected, you have 3 months to file up to 2 appeals. Ensure that you address the reasons for rejection in the appeal by providing additional documents or explanations. Having a robust application is key, so you may also find our article on highly-rated immigration lawyers in Singapore useful, especially for complex cases or appeals.

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Common Reasons for Rejections or Requests for Additional Documents

Despite following the application process, Employment Pass applications can be rejected or delayed for several reasons. It’s important to understand these common pitfalls and how to avoid them:

1. Low or No Turnover:

If the company’s turnover has been low or non-existent for the past 3 years, additional financial justifications may be required to prove the company’s viability.

2. Salary Doesn’t Match Candidate’s Credentials:

If the candidate’s proposed salary doesn’t align with their qualifications or experience, MOM may request further justifications to explain the discrepancy. This could involve explaining the specific value the candidate brings to the company.

3. Unclear Source of Funding:

For new companies or startups, MOM might ask for clarification on how the business is funded, especially if the business has no clear income streams or has been running at a loss.

4. Incorrect or Incomplete Documentation:

Missing documents, inconsistencies in job roles between the application and the MyCareersFuture advertisement, or incorrect job titles are common reasons for rejections. Ensure the job description and title match the application details.

5. Qualifications from Non-accredited Institutions:

If the candidate’s educational qualifications are from an institution that is not accredited or recognised by local authorities, the application may be rejected or require additional verification proof. Using a background screening company can help validate the qualifications.

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. What if my candidate’s educational institution isn’t listed on the Employment Pass application form?

Ensure the institution’s name is entered exactly as it appears on the certificate. If it’s still not listed, provide verification proof that:

• The qualification is authentic.

• The institution is accredited by the local government.
You can obtain this verification proof from a background screening company.

2. What is the minimum salary for an Employment Pass?

The minimum salary is SGD $5,000 for most sectors and SGD $5,500 for the financial services sector.

3. How do I update my employee’s residential address?

For HDB Properties:

• The flat owner must register the employee as a tenant. The employee can check their registration status via HDB’s eService.

For Private Properties:

• The homeowner must remove previous tenants using the Foreign Worker Tenant Enquiry Service (FWTES) before the new address can be updated via OFWAS or EP eService.

For more information, refer to the HDB website.

4. Can Employment Pass holders bring their families to Singapore?

Yes, if the EP holder earns at least SGD $6,000 per month, they can bring their spouse and children to Singapore. The spouse and children are eligible for a Dependant’s Pass or Long-Term Visit Pass, depending on their relationship to the EP holder.

5. When should I start my Employment Pass renewal process?

You should begin the Employment Pass renewal process at least 6 months before the pass expires. It’s important to renew early to ensure the pass holder’s continued eligibility and employment in Singapore, especially if new requirements such as COMPASS need to be met.


This comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know about applying for an Employment Pass in Singapore, including eligibility requirements, a detailed step-by-step process, and reasons for potential rejections. By being aware of common pitfalls and preparing accurate documents, you can streamline your application process. For those seeking personalised assistance or facing complex issues such as turnover, salary justifications, or funding challenges, engaging a professional immigration agency can ensure a smoother application experience.

For applicants seeking a longer-term future in Singapore, you may want to consider the possibility of applying for permanent residency after holding an Employment Pass. And, if you’re considering citizenship in the future, here’s a step-by-step guide on how to apply for Singapore citizenship.

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