Singapore
Employment Pass
The Singapore Employment Pass (EP) is the work pass for professionals and executives with an employer in Singapore. The minimum salary starts at SGD 5,600 a month, and at SGD 6,000 for new applications from 1 January 2027. MOM sets the timeline; we tell you the current state in the call.
Last updated: 10/2026
Why an SG Employment Pass?
The Employment Pass requires an employment contract in Singapore. The minimum salary is SGD 5,600 a month and rises with age to SGD 10,700 (financial services: SGD 6,200 to 11,800). The first pass is valid for up to two years, a renewal for up to three years (Ministry of Manpower, read 22 Oct 2026).
The COMPASS framework (since 2023) evaluates applications based on salary, qualifications, diversity, and support for local workforce. We check your profile in advance with MOM's Self-Assessment Tool and prepare the documents; MOM makes the decision.
If the pass runs through your own company, it is worth looking at the company’s tax position too: what a Pte. Ltd. pays in Singapore corporate tax.
What the Employment Pass allows
Process
Consultation & COMPASS Check
Assessment of your eligibility under the COMPASS framework.
Application Preparation
Compilation of all documents and online application.
Submission to MOM
Submission to the Ministry of Manpower.
Approval & Issuance
Receipt of In-Principle Approval and EP issuance.
If you found your own company and want to work in Singapore, check the Singapore Entrepreneur Pass requirements first: the EntrePass is the Ministry of Manpower's work pass for foreign founders, and a company alone does not give you one.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the COMPASS framework?
Can I change employers?
How do I get Permanent Residency?
What taxes will I pay in Singapore?
Do I need an Employment Pass if I only want a company in Singapore?
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Pathfinder StartWhatsAppCOMPASS Criteria
Singapore Visa Types Comparison
| Criterion | Employment Pass | EntrePass | ONE Pass | S Pass |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Minimum Salary | SGD 5,600+ | Not specified | SGD 30,000 | SGD 3,300+ |
| Target Group | Professionals & Executives | Innovative Entrepreneurs | Top Talents | Mid-skilled Staff |
| Validity | Up to 2 yrs, renewal up to 3 yrs | 1 year | 5 years | 1-3 years |
| Family Dependant Pass | Yes | Conditional | Yes | Yes |
| Change of Employer | New application | Not tied | Not tied | New application |
| Path to PR | Can apply | Can apply | Can apply | Can apply |
| COMPASS required | Yes | No | No | Yes |
Minimum Salary
Target Group
Validity
Family Dependant Pass
Change of Employer
Path to PR
COMPASS required
Minimum salaries for the Employment Pass and S Pass and the EP validity per the Ministry of Manpower, read 22 Oct 2026; new applications from 1 January 2027 need SGD 6,000 (EP) and SGD 3,600 (S Pass). ICA decides on PR case by case. Other details without guarantee.
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Strasia Group · Singapore
Office
2 Venture Drive
Vision Exchange, #06-24
Singapore 608526
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