Employment Pass Singapore: Complete Guide (2026)

Last updated: March 2026

Singapore's Employment Pass (EP) is the main work visa for foreign professionals, managers, and executives taking up roles in the city-state. In 2024 alone, the Ministry of Manpower (MOM) processed tens of thousands of EP applications under a tightened two-stage eligibility framework that now includes the COMPASS scoring system. Below, we cover the current salary thresholds, COMPASS criteria, application process, status checking, renewal rules, and the pathway from EP holder to permanent resident.

What is the Singapore Employment Pass?

The Employment Pass is a work pass issued by MOM to foreign professionals who have a job offer in Singapore with a fixed monthly salary of at least S$5,600 (for non-financial sectors). It is aimed at candidates in managerial, executive, or specialised roles and, unlike the S Pass, the EP has no dependency ratio ceiling or company-level quota. That makes it the preferred route for employers hiring senior talent from abroad.

An EP is typically valid for one to two years on the first issuance and can be renewed for up to three years per renewal cycle. Holders in roles on the Shortage Occupation List (SOL) may qualify for a five-year EP. The pass is employer-tied, meaning it is sponsored by a specific company and the holder can only work for that employer unless a new EP is obtained through a different sponsor.

For many foreign professionals, the EP is also the first step toward Singapore permanent residence (PR). EP holders are eligible to apply for PR under ICA's Professionals/Technical Personnel and Skilled Workers (PTS) scheme after building up a period of residency and employment history in Singapore.

Tip: If you are not sure whether the EP is the right pass for your situation, skip ahead to the comparison table at the end of this guide, which breaks down the differences between the EP, S Pass, and ONE Pass.

Employment Pass eligibility: who qualifies?

Since September 2023, EP eligibility has operated on a two-stage framework. A candidate must clear both stages to receive an EP.

Stage 1 — qualifying salary. The candidate's fixed monthly salary must meet or exceed MOM's minimum threshold. This threshold varies by the candidate's age (older candidates need higher salaries to reflect expected seniority) and by sector (financial services has higher minimums).

Stage 2 — COMPASS. The candidate and employer must score at least 40 points on the Complementarity Assessment Framework, better known as COMPASS. This points-based system evaluates individual and firm-level attributes such as salary benchmarking, qualifications, workforce diversity, and support for local employment.

Candidates earning S$22,500 or more per month are exempt from COMPASS, as are intra-corporate transferees and those filling roles that last one month or less.

Understanding the COMPASS framework

COMPASS scores candidates across four foundational criteria (C1 to C4) and two bonus criteria (C5 and C6). Each foundational criterion awards 0, 10, or 20 points. The two bonus criteria each award up to 20 and 10 points respectively. A total of 40 points is needed to pass.

Foundational criteria

C1 — Salary. MOM compares the candidate's fixed monthly salary to the local PMET salary distribution in the same sector. Earning at or above the 65th percentile scores 10 points; at or above the 90th percentile scores 20 points. Below the 65th percentile scores 0 points. Benchmarks are updated annually, most recently in January 2026.

C2 — Qualifications. A degree from a top-tier institution (QS World University Rankings top 100, or a Singapore autonomous university) scores 20 points. Other recognised degree-equivalent qualifications score 10 points. Candidates without a degree-level qualification score 0 points but can still pass COMPASS if their other criteria are strong.

C3 — Diversity. This criterion looks at the share of the candidate's nationality among the employer's PMETs. If that nationality makes up less than 5% of the firm's PMET headcount, the candidate scores 20 points. Between 5% and 25% scores 10 points. Above 25% scores 0 points.

C4 — Support for local employment. MOM compares the firm's share of local PMETs to the sector median. Firms with local PMET shares at or above the sector median score 10 points; those significantly above it score 20 points. Firms well below the sector median score 0 points.

Bonus criteria

C5 — Skills bonus (Shortage Occupation List). If the role is on MOM's SOL, the candidate receives up to 20 bonus points. The SOL is reviewed periodically and was last updated in January 2026. Roles on the SOL that score 40 or more COMPASS points may also qualify the candidate for a five-year EP instead of the standard one- to two-year validity.

C6 — Strategic Economic Priorities bonus. Up to 10 bonus points are awarded when the employer partners with the Singapore government on strategic economic initiatives, such as those supported by the Economic Development Board (EDB) or Enterprise Singapore.

COMPASS exemptions

Not everyone needs to go through COMPASS. You are exempt if:

• Your fixed monthly salary is S$22,500 or more.
• You are an intra-corporate transferee covered under a World Trade Organisation commitment.
• Your role in Singapore lasts one month or less.

How COMPASS scoring works in practice

To illustrate how COMPASS comes together, consider two hypothetical candidates applying in 2026.

Example A — Software engineer, age 28, tech company. A 28-year-old software engineer is offered S$8,000 per month by a Singapore tech firm. Her salary sits above the 65th percentile for her sector (C1 = 10 points). She holds a degree from a QS top-100 university (C2 = 20 points). Her nationality makes up 8% of the firm's PMET headcount (C3 = 10 points). The firm's local PMET share is slightly above the sector median (C4 = 10 points). Total: 50 points — she passes COMPASS comfortably. Her role is also on the Shortage Occupation List, so she earns a C5 bonus and may qualify for a five-year EP.

Example B — Marketing manager, age 35, services firm. A 35-year-old marketing manager is offered S$8,400 per month by a services company. His salary is around the 65th percentile (C1 = 10 points). He graduated from a university outside the top 100 but holds a recognised degree (C2 = 10 points). His nationality already makes up 30% of the firm's PMETs (C3 = 0 points). The firm's local PMET share is below the sector median (C4 = 0 points). Total: 20 points — he does not pass. The employer would need to either increase the salary offer (to boost C1), demonstrate stronger local hiring (C4), or show that the role qualifies for a skills bonus (C5) to reach 40 points.

The takeaway: COMPASS weighs the employer's workforce composition (C3 and C4) as heavily as the candidate's own profile, so employers should check their own COMPASS metrics before starting any application.

Tip: Before applying, use MOM's online Self-Assessment Tool (SAT) to estimate your COMPASS score. The SAT gives an indicative result based on the information you provide, so you can identify weak areas early and work to strengthen your application.

EP salary requirements by age and sector

MOM sets progressive salary floors that rise with the candidate's age to reflect expected career progression. Financial services roles carry higher thresholds because average salaries in that sector are higher.

2026 salary thresholds (effective 1 January 2026)

Thresholds increase on a sliding scale within each age band. The figures above are reference points published by MOM. Exact amounts for intermediate ages can be checked through MOM's SAT.

2027 announced increases

MOM has already announced that EP salary thresholds will increase again from 1 January 2027:

• Non-financial sectors: S$6,000 (age 23) rising to S$11,500 (age 45+)
• Financial services: S$6,600 (age 23) rising to S$12,700 (age 45+)

Employers planning long-term hires should factor in these upcoming increases when budgeting for foreign talent, particularly for renewal cycles that will fall after January 2027.

How to apply for an Employment Pass: step by step

The EP application is employer-sponsored, meaning the candidate cannot apply on their own behalf. Here is what the process looks like from start to finish.

Step 1: Advertise on MyCareersFuture

Under the Fair Consideration Framework (FCF), employers must advertise the role on MyCareersFuture for at least 14 consecutive days before submitting the EP application. The job ad must include salary information and should accurately describe the role. Certain categories, such as roles in companies with fewer than 10 employees or positions paying S$22,500 or more per month, may be exempt from this requirement.

Step 2: Gather required documents

The employer will need to prepare:

• Candidate's passport and personal particulars
• Educational certificates and professional qualifications
• A detailed job description and employment terms
• The company's latest business profile from ACRA
• Evidence of the FCF job posting on MyCareersFuture

Step 3: Submit the online application

The employer (or their appointed employment agent) submits the application through MOM's myMOM Portal. During the submission, COMPASS scoring is calculated automatically based on the information provided.

Step 4: Pay the application fee

The application fee is S$105, payable at the time of submission.

Step 5: Wait for processing

Online applications are typically processed within 10 business days. Applications submitted by overseas companies without a Singapore-registered entity may take up to six weeks. MOM may request additional documents during processing, which can extend the timeline.

Step 6: Receive the In-Principle Approval (IPA) letter

If the application is approved, MOM issues an IPA letter. The IPA is valid for six months, during which the candidate must enter Singapore and complete the pass issuance formalities.

Step 7: Complete biometric registration and collect the EP card

Once in Singapore, the candidate must complete fingerprint registration at MOM's Employment Pass Services Centre within two weeks of the pass being issued. The physical EP card is delivered to the employer's registered address within five working days after biometric registration.

Step 8: Pay the issuance fee

An issuance fee of S$225 is payable when the pass is issued. An additional Multiple Journey Visa (MJV) fee of S$30 may apply for certain nationalities.

Total cost summary: S$105 (application) + S$225 (issuance) + S$30 (MJV, if applicable) = S$330-S$360.

Common mistakes that delay EP applications

Employers and candidates can avoid most processing delays by steering clear of these frequent errors.

Incomplete or inconsistent documents. The most common cause of delays is submitting documents that do not match the information in the online form. For example, if the candidate's passport name differs from the name on their degree certificate, MOM will request clarification. Double-check that all names, dates, and job titles are consistent across every document.

Underestimating the salary threshold. Some employers offer salaries that meet the minimum for the candidate's age band but forget that thresholds rise with age. A salary that qualifies a 28-year-old will not qualify a 35-year-old. Always check the exact threshold for the candidate's age using MOM's Self-Assessment Tool.

Skipping or rushing the MyCareersFuture posting. The job advertisement must be live for a full 14 consecutive days before the EP application is submitted. Posting the ad and submitting the application on the same day will result in rejection. The job description and salary range in the posting should also match what is stated in the EP application.

Ignoring COMPASS before submission. Employers who do not run a COMPASS self-assessment before applying risk submitting an application that fails at the scoring stage. Since COMPASS considers company-level factors (C3 and C4) that the candidate cannot control, the employer should verify the firm's own metrics before starting the process.

Not preparing for additional document requests. MOM may ask for documents specific to the candidate's nationality. Indian nationals, for example, may be asked for educational verification through designated services. Chinese nationals may need to provide degree authentication. Having these ready in advance prevents weeks of delay.

Tip: Start the EP application process early. Between the 14-day FCF advertising requirement and the 10-business-day processing time, the entire process typically takes four to six weeks from the initial job posting to IPA issuance.

EP application checklist

Use this checklist to confirm you have everything before submitting.

• Candidate's valid passport (at least 18 months validity remaining)
• Educational certificates and transcripts (originals or certified copies)
• Professional qualifications or licences, if applicable
• Detailed job description with title, duties, and reporting structure
• Employment contract or letter of offer stating fixed monthly salary
• Company's ACRA business profile (not older than three months)
• MyCareersFuture job posting (live for at least 14 days, now closed or still active)
• COMPASS self-assessment completed via MOM's SAT
• Application fee of S$105 ready for payment
• Country-specific documents (e.g., degree authentication for Chinese nationals, educational verification for Indian nationals)

How to check your EP application status

After submission, both the employer and the candidate can track the application's progress through MOM's online portal.

Checking via the myMOM Portal

1. Log in to the myMOM Portal using SingPass (for Singapore-based employers) or the EP Online login (for overseas companies).
2. Navigate to "Application Status" or "Check Status" under the work pass section.
3. Enter the application reference number or the candidate's FIN/passport number.
4. The portal will display the current status of the application.

What the status labels mean

• Pending — The application is still under review. This is normal within the first 10 business days.
• Approved — The EP has been approved and an IPA letter will be issued.
• Rejected — The application was not successful. MOM will provide a reason.
• Additional documents required — MOM needs more information before making a decision.

What to do if your application is pending for longer than expected

If more than three weeks have passed with no update, the employer can contact MOM directly to enquire about the status. Delays are sometimes caused by incomplete documentation or additional checks. If the employer used an employment agent, the agent can follow up through their dedicated MOM liaison.

After a rejection: the appeal process

If the EP application is rejected, the employer may submit an appeal within three months of the rejection date. Appeals are submitted through the myMOM Portal and should directly address the specific reasons for rejection cited by MOM.

A successful appeal typically includes new evidence that was not part of the original application. For example, if the rejection was related to a low COMPASS score, the employer might submit an appeal showing an increased salary offer (improving C1), additional qualification documentation (improving C2), or evidence that the role has been added to the Shortage Occupation List (adding C5 bonus points). Simply resubmitting the same application without changes is unlikely to succeed.

If the appeal is also rejected, the employer can submit a fresh EP application at any time. There is no limit on the number of new applications, though each one incurs the S$105 application fee. In some cases, it may be more effective to submit a new application with a materially different salary or role description rather than appealing.

Changing jobs, cancellation, and the gap between passes

An Employment Pass is tied to a specific employer. When an EP holder leaves their job, the existing pass must be cancelled. The transition process is simple enough, but timing matters.

EP cancellation

The employer is responsible for cancelling the EP within one week of the employment ending. Once cancelled, the former EP holder receives a short-term visit pass (STVP) that typically allows them to remain in Singapore for 30 days. During this period, they cannot work.

Transitioning to a new employer

If the EP holder has already secured a new job, the new employer should submit a fresh EP application before the old EP is cancelled. MOM allows a candidate to hold a pending EP application while still on a valid pass or STVP. Once the new EP is approved and issued, the switch happens without a gap in status.

To avoid gaps in legal status, the recommended sequence is: secure a job offer from the new employer, have the new employer submit the EP application, then resign from the current employer once the new In-Principle Approval is received.

What if you have no new job lined up?

EP holders who leave their employer without a new role must depart Singapore when their STVP expires (usually 30 days after cancellation). They cannot remain in Singapore on a social visit pass to job-hunt indefinitely. That said, if a job offer comes through during the STVP period, the new employer can submit an EP application immediately.

Employment Pass renewal and 2026 changes

When and how to renew

EP holders should begin the renewal process well before the pass expires. Employers can submit a renewal application up to six months before the expiry date. The renewal process is similar to a new application and is submitted through the myMOM Portal. Processing times are comparable, roughly 10 business days.

2026 changes affecting renewals

The most significant change in 2026 is that COMPASS now applies to EP renewals from 1 July 2026 onwards. Previously, COMPASS was only required for new EP applications. This means:

• EP holders renewing after 1 July 2026 will need to meet the updated COMPASS criteria, including the January 2026 updates to the C1 salary benchmarks, C2 qualification lists, and C5 Shortage Occupation List.
• Existing EP holders whose passes are still valid are not affected during their current pass term.
• Employers may need to increase salaries for renewing EP holders to meet the updated C1 benchmarks.

Updated qualification lists (C2)

In November 2025, MOM released refreshed lists for COMPASS C2 scoring, effective January 2026. The main updates include an expanded set of degree-equivalent professional qualifications in technical, engineering, hospitality, and applied science fields. The list of top-tier institutions was also updated.

Updated Shortage Occupation List (C5)

The SOL was refreshed in January 2026 with new eligible roles added across sectors. Selected SOL roles scoring 40 or more COMPASS points may qualify for a five-year EP.

Tip: If your EP is due for renewal in the second half of 2026, ask your employer to run a COMPASS self-assessment now using the updated January 2026 benchmarks. This gives you time to address any shortfalls, such as by adjusting the salary offer or securing a qualification that improves the C2 score.

EP holder rights and benefits

Holding an EP in Singapore affects your ability to bring family, buy property, and take on work outside your main employer. This section covers the main points.

Dependant Pass for spouse and children

EP holders earning at least S$6,000 per month can sponsor Dependant Passes (DPs) for their legally married spouse and unmarried children under 21. A DP allows family members to live in Singapore for the duration of the EP holder's pass. DP holders who wish to work in Singapore still need their own work pass, such as a Letter of Consent (LOC) issued through the EP holder's employer.

For more on bringing family to Singapore, see our guide on Dependant Passes.

Long-Term Visit Pass for parents

EP holders with a monthly salary of S$12,000 or more can apply for a Long-Term Visit Pass (LTVP) for their parents. The LTVP allows parents to stay in Singapore but does not include work rights. Read more about LTVP for parents.

Buying property in Singapore

As a foreigner, EP holders can purchase private residential property (condominiums, apartments, landed property in certain cases) but cannot buy HDB flats. Foreign buyers are subject to Additional Buyer's Stamp Duty (ABSD) of 60% on residential property purchases. That makes buying property as a foreigner much more expensive than for PRs or citizens.

This is one of the main financial reasons EP holders eventually apply for PR. PRs pay 5% ABSD on their first residential property, compared to 60% for foreign buyers. Learn more about property rules for PRs.

Side employment and business ownership

EP holders can be directors or shareholders of their sponsoring company. They cannot, though, take on additional employment with a different employer without a separate work pass. In limited circumstances, MOM may issue a Letter of Consent allowing an EP holder to take on secondary work, such as part-time teaching or voluntary board positions.

Starting a side business while on an EP is generally not permitted unless the business activity is carried out through the sponsoring employer. EP holders who wish to pursue entrepreneurship should consider the EntrePass or discuss options with an immigration consultant.

Banking, CPF, and healthcare

EP holders can open bank accounts in Singapore easily. They are not required to contribute to the Central Provident Fund (CPF), which means their full salary is paid in cash, but they also do not benefit from employer CPF contributions or CPF-linked housing and healthcare schemes. Most EP holders rely on private medical insurance, often provided by their employer.

Employment Pass to PR: your pathway to permanent residence

Many EP holders eventually want to settle in Singapore permanently, and the EP is one of the strongest qualifying passes for a PR application under ICA's PTS scheme.

When to apply

There is no fixed minimum residency period before an EP holder can apply for PR. ICA does consider length of residency as one of its assessment factors. Six months is often quoted as the earliest possible point, though most consultants recommend waiting one to two years. That extra time lets you build up a stable employment history, consistent tax contributions, and community ties — all of which make for a stronger application.

PTS scheme eligibility

Under the PTS scheme, EP holders (as well as S Pass holders) can apply for PR. ICA evaluates applications based on:

• Economic contributions (salary, tax payments, sector)
• Professional qualifications and skills
• Age and family profile (married applicants with children may have an advantage)
• Length of residency in Singapore
• Family ties to Singapore citizens or PRs

Required documents

A typical EP-to-PR application requires:

• Valid EP and passport copies
• Employer letter confirming employment terms
• Last six months of payslips
• IRAS tax consent letter or latest Notice of Assessment
• Highest educational certificates
• Marriage and birth certificates (if applying with family)
• Cover letter explaining your intent to settle in Singapore

For a full list, see our PR application documents checklist.

Processing timeline

PR applications typically take six to twelve months to process. During this time, ICA may request additional documents or call the applicant for an interview. There is no way to expedite the process.

Tips to improve your EP-to-PR application

1. Maintain stable employment. Frequent job changes can weaken your application. Stay with the same employer for at least one to two years before applying.
2. Earn above the median. A higher salary demonstrates stronger economic contribution. See our guide on salary requirements for PR for benchmarks by industry.
3. Contribute to the community. Volunteer work, grassroots involvement, and professional association memberships show commitment to Singapore.
4. Submit a strong cover letter. Explain why you want to make Singapore your permanent home and how you contribute to the economy and society.
5. Apply with your family. If you have a spouse and children, including them in your PR application can sometimes strengthen the case, particularly if children are enrolled in local schools.

For detailed guidance on the PR application process, read our Singapore PR application guide.

Tip: Do not wait until your EP is about to expire to start the PR application. The six- to twelve-month processing time means you should apply well in advance. If your EP expires before the PR decision is made, you will need to renew the EP to maintain your legal status in Singapore.

EP vs S Pass vs ONE Pass: which work pass is right for you?

Singapore offers several work passes for foreign professionals. Choosing the right one depends on your salary level, qualifications, career plans, and personal circumstances. The table below compares the three main professional-level passes.

When the EP is the right choice

The EP is the most common path for foreign professionals earning between S$5,600 and S$30,000 per month. It offers flexibility (no company quota), a clear pathway to PR, and the ability to sponsor family members at moderate salary thresholds. For most professionals relocating to Singapore through an employer, the EP is the default option.

When an S Pass might apply

The S Pass is designed for mid-skilled workers and has a lower salary threshold (S$3,300/month). The catch is that S Passes are subject to company-level quotas under the Dependency Ratio Ceiling. Employers in most sectors can only hire S Pass holders up to a fixed percentage of their total workforce. Read more about EP and S Pass salary changes.

ONE Pass and the upcoming AI and tech track

The Overseas Networks and Expertise Pass (ONE Pass) targets exceptional talent earning at least S$30,000 per month. Unlike the EP, the ONE Pass is not tied to a single employer, allowing holders to work for multiple companies, start businesses, or serve on boards simultaneously. It is valid for five years.

From January 2027, MOM will introduce a dedicated ONE Pass AI and Tech track, replacing the current Tech.Pass. This new track will allow qualifying candidates in artificial intelligence and technology fields to combine cash and non-cash compensation components to meet the salary criterion. Learn more about the ONE Pass and its benefits.

Frequently asked questions

How much does an Employment Pass application cost?

The total cost is S$330 to S$360. This includes the S$105 application fee, S$225 issuance fee, and a S$30 Multiple Journey Visa fee that applies to certain nationalities. These fees are paid by the employer.

How long does it take to get an Employment Pass approved?

Online applications are typically processed within 10 business days. If MOM requests additional documents, the timeline can extend to three to six weeks. Applications from overseas companies without a Singapore entity may take up to six weeks.

How do I check my EP application status?

Log in to MOM's myMOM Portal and navigate to the application status section. You will need your application reference number or the candidate's passport or FIN number. The portal shows whether the application is pending, approved, rejected, or awaiting additional documents.

Can an EP holder buy property in Singapore?

Yes, but only private property (not HDB flats). Foreign EP holders are subject to 60% Additional Buyer's Stamp Duty (ABSD). Many EP holders choose to rent until they obtain PR status, which reduces ABSD to 5% on a first property.

Can I start a side business while holding an EP?

Generally, no. EP holders are only authorised to work for their sponsoring employer. Running a separate business or taking on secondary employment without MOM approval is a violation of pass conditions. In limited cases, MOM may grant a Letter of Consent for specific activities.

How long should I hold my EP before applying for PR?

There is no mandatory waiting period, but immigration professionals typically recommend holding your EP for one to two years before applying. This allows you to build up employment history, tax contributions, and community ties, all of which count in your favour when ICA reviews the PR application.

What is the COMPASS framework and how is it scored?

COMPASS is a points-based system introduced in September 2023 that evaluates EP candidates across six criteria: salary benchmarking, qualifications, workforce diversity, local employment support, skills bonus (SOL), and strategic economic priorities. A minimum of 40 points is required. Candidates earning S$22,500 or more per month are exempt from COMPASS.

What happens to my EP when I change jobs?

Your existing EP is cancelled when you leave your employer. Your new employer must apply for a fresh EP on your behalf. There is a short-term visit pass (STVP) arrangement that may allow you to remain in Singapore while the new application is processed, but this must be arranged before the old EP is cancelled.

Does COMPASS apply to EP renewals?

Starting 1 July 2026, yes. EP renewals will be assessed under the updated COMPASS criteria, including the January 2026 benchmarks. Existing EP holders are not affected during their current pass term, but should prepare for COMPASS requirements ahead of their next renewal.

What is the Shortage Occupation List and how does it affect my EP?

The SOL is a list of roles that Singapore considers critical skills gaps. If your role is on the SOL, you receive bonus COMPASS points (C5 criterion) and may be eligible for a five-year EP instead of the standard one- to two-year validity. The SOL was last updated in January 2026.

How Singapore Top Immigration can help

While we do not handle Employment Pass applications directly, many EP holders come to us when they are ready to take the next step: applying for Singapore permanent residence. We specialise in PR applications under ICA's PTS scheme and help EP holders with eligibility assessments, document preparation, COMPASS-to-PR strategy, and the full application process through ICA's e-Service.

If you are an EP holder thinking about PR, our consultants can advise on timing, how to strengthen your profile, and what to expect during the six- to twelve-month processing window.

Speak with our consultants about your EP-to-PR application. You can also read our Singapore PR application guide or explore our PR application services.

This guide is for general information only and does not constitute legal advice. Immigration policies change regularly. Always verify the latest requirements on the Ministry of Manpower and Immigration & Checkpoints Authority websites before making decisions.