
Work Passes
Employment Pass Singapore: Complete Guide (2026)
Everything you need to know about Singapore's Employment Pass in 2026, including COMPASS scoring, salary thresholds by age, the step-by-step application process, and how to transition from EP to permanent residence.
Last updated: 30 October 2026
Singapore's Employment Pass (EP) is the main work visa for foreign professionals, managers, and executives taking up roles in the city-state. Eligibility runs in two stages: a qualifying salary, then the COMPASS points system. For new applications from 1 January 2027, the salary floor starts at S$6,000 a month (non-financial sectors, age 23). This guide covers the salary thresholds, COMPASS criteria, the application process, status checks, renewal rules, and the route from EP holder to permanent resident.
How do I apply for an Employment Pass?
You cannot apply for an EP yourself. Your employer, or an employment agent the employer appoints, applies on MOM's EP eService. In short:
- The employer gets the candidate's written consent to apply.
- The employer advertises the role on MyCareersFuture for at least 14 consecutive days, unless an exemption applies.
- The employer submits the application on EP eService with a Corppass account and pays the S$105 application fee.
- MOM processes the application or gives an update within 10 business days.
- If approved, the In-Principle Approval (IPA) gives the candidate six months to enter Singapore and get the pass issued.
- The employer pays the S$225 issuance fee once the candidate is in Singapore, and the pass is issued.
The full process is in the step-by-step section below.
What is the Singapore Employment Pass?
Employment Pass 2026
Key numbers you need to know
S$5,600 / S$6,000
Minimum monthly salary at age 23, non-financial sectors (until 31 Dec 2026 / from 1 Jan 2027)
40 pts
COMPASS score required to pass
10 days
Processed or updated within (business days)
S$22,500
Monthly salary for COMPASS exemption
Source: Ministry of Manpower, EP eligibility page (28 April 2026) and apply-for-a-pass page (15 June 2026)
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 at age 23 (for non-financial sectors), rising to S$6,000 for new applications from 1 January 2027. It is aimed at candidates in managerial, executive, or specialised roles and, unlike the S Pass, which MOM limits with a quota and levy, the EP is assessed on salary and COMPASS. It suits employers hiring senior talent from abroad.
A first EP is valid for up to two years, and a renewed EP for up to three years. Experienced tech professionals with skills in shortage may get 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: ICA lists EP and S Pass holders as an eligible category, with no sponsor required.
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?
EP eligibility works in two stages. 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 Framework
Six criteria scored to reach 40 points
Salary
Compared to local PMET salary benchmarks in the same sector. Up to 20 points.
Qualifications
Degree-equivalent from an institution on MOM's top-tier list scores 20 pts. Other degree-equivalent qualifications score 10 pts.
Diversity
Nationality share among employer's PMETs. Under 5% scores 20 pts.
Local Employment
Firm's local PMET share vs sector percentile bands. The 50th percentile or above scores 20 pts.
Skills Bonus
20 bonus pts if the role is on the Shortage Occupation List (SOL) and your nationality is under one third of the firm's PMETs, otherwise 10.
Strategic Priorities
10 bonus pts for an eligible Strategic Economic Priorities programme.
C1–C4 are foundational (0, 10, or 20 pts each). C5–C6 are bonus criteria. Total of 40 points needed to pass.
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 and age. Earning at or above the 65th percentile (and below the 90th) scores 10 points; at or above the 90th percentile scores 20 points. Below the 65th percentile scores 0 points. MOM updates the benchmarks once a year: the set released in August 2025 applies to new applications from 1 January 2026, and the set released in August 2026 applies to new applications from 1 January 2027.
C2: Qualifications. A degree-equivalent qualification from an institution on MOM's own list of top-tier institutions scores 20 points. Other 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. From 5% to under 25% scores 10 points. At 25% or more scores 0 points. Firms with fewer than 25 PMETs get 10 points by default.
C4: Support for local employment. MOM compares the firm's share of local PMETs with the sector's percentile bands. A local share at or above the 50th percentile scores 20 points; from the 20th percentile to below the 50th scores 10 points; below the 20th scores 0 points. Firms with fewer than 25 PMETs get 10 points by default, and firms whose local PMET share is at least 70% score at least 10 points.
Bonus criteria
C5: Skills bonus (Shortage Occupation List). If the role is on MOM's SOL, the candidate receives bonus points: 20 points if the candidate's nationality makes up less than one third of the firm's PMETs, and 10 points if it makes up one third or more. A candidate who needed these points to pass can only be employed in that specific shortage occupation. MOM publishes the SOL on its COMPASS pages.
C6: Strategic Economic Priorities bonus. 10 bonus points go to employers taking part in an eligible Strategic Economic Priorities programme. The supporting agencies award them at their discretion, and they are valid for up to three years or the length of the programme, whichever is shorter.
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 applying as an overseas intra-corporate transferee.
- 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 an institution on MOM's top-tier list (C2 = 20 points). Her nationality makes up 8% of the firm's PMET headcount (C3 = 10 points). The firm has well over 25 PMETs, and its local PMET share sits at the 35th percentile for the sector (C4 = 10 points). Total: 50 points, so she passes COMPASS comfortably. Her role is also on the Shortage Occupation List and her nationality is under one third of the firm's PMETs, so a C5 bonus of 20 points would take her to 70.
Example B: Marketing manager, age 35, services firm. A 35-year-old marketing manager is offered a salary that meets the Stage 1 floor for his age. That salary is around the 65th percentile for his sector (C1 = 10 points). He graduated from a university that is not on MOM's top-tier list but holds a degree-equivalent qualification (C2 = 10 points). His nationality already makes up 30% of the firm's PMETs (C3 = 0 points). The firm has well over 25 PMETs, and its local PMET share is below the 20th percentile for the sector (C4 = 0 points). Total: 20 points, so 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)
- Age 23 (minimum entry): S$5,600 (non-financial sectors) / S$6,200 (financial services)
- Age 45 and above: S$10,700 (non-financial sectors) / S$11,800 (financial services)
Thresholds rise progressively with age. The figures above are the age-23 and age-45-and-above reference points published by MOM. For the exact amount at any age in between, use MOM's Self-Assessment Tool.
2027 announced increases
MOM has already announced that EP salary thresholds will increase again. The figures below apply to new applications from 1 January 2027 and to renewals of passes expiring from 1 January 2028:
- 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+)
Renewals of passes that expire before 1 January 2028 stay on the current floors. Employers planning long-term hires should factor in these increases when budgeting for foreign talent, especially for passes that expire on or after 1 January 2028.
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.
Eight steps from job posting to EP card
- Post on MyCareersFuture. Advertise the role for at least 14 consecutive days under the Fair Consideration Framework.
- Gather documents. The candidate's written consent and form, the supporting documents for the application, and the company's updated 3-year turnover.
- Submit on EP eService. The employer or agent submits online with Corppass.
- Pay the S$105 application fee. Payable when you submit.
- Wait for processing. Processed or given an update within 10 business days. Up to 6 weeks for most cases if the company is not registered in Singapore.
- Receive the IPA letter. The In-Principle Approval gives the candidate 6 months to enter Singapore and get the pass issued.
- Pay the S$225 issuance fee. Paid once the candidate is in Singapore. The S$30 MJV fee applies only if one is required.
- Biometric registration and card. Fingerprints and photo only if required, within 2 weeks of issuance. The card is delivered within 5 working days.
Total cost: S$330 without a Multiple Journey Visa (MJV), S$360 with one.

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. 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 application is made on EP eService, where the employer uploads the required documents. Employers commonly prepare:
- Candidate's written consent, passport and personal particulars
- Educational certificates and professional qualifications
- A detailed job description and employment terms
- Evidence of the FCF job posting on MyCareersFuture
- The company's turnover for the past three years, updated in MOM's records
Step 3: Submit the online application
The employer (or their appointed employment agent) submits the application on MOM's EP eService, logging in with Corppass. MOM scores the application against the COMPASS criteria.
Step 4: Pay the application fee
The application fee is S$105, payable by GIRO, Visa, Mastercard or Amex when you submit.
Step 5: Wait for processing
MOM says online applications are processed or given an update within 10 business days. For companies not registered in Singapore, it is within 6 weeks for most cases.
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: Pay the issuance fee
Once the candidate is in Singapore, the employer pays the S$225 issuance fee to have the pass issued. An additional Multiple Journey Visa (MJV) fee of S$30 applies only if one is required. MOM then emails a notification letter to the candidate and the employer.
Step 8: Complete biometric registration (if required) and collect the EP card
Fingerprint and photo registration is needed only if MOM requires it, and it must be done within two weeks of the pass being issued. The EP card is delivered within five working days after registration or document verification.
Employment Pass Fees
| Fee type | Amount | When paid |
|---|---|---|
| Application fee | S$105 | At submission |
| Issuance fee | S$225 | At pass issuance |
| Multiple Journey Visa | S$30 | At issuance (only if required) |
| Total | S$330–S$360 | Combined |
Total cost summary: S$105 (application) + S$225 (issuance) + S$30 (MJV, if applicable) = S$330-S$360.
If the employer has no Singapore office
A company that is not registered in Singapore cannot submit the application itself. It needs a local sponsor, who completes a sponsorship form with a Corppass account. MOM emails the IPA letter to the contact person named in the application. Processing takes up to 6 weeks for most cases, so allow for that when you plan the start date.
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. Check that names, dates, and job titles match 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 open for at least 14 consecutive days before the EP application is submitted. Count the days before you plan the submission date.
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 email a request for more documents while the application is pending, and this can extend processing beyond 10 business days. MOM also says verification proof of the candidate's qualifications must be submitted with the application. Have both ready in advance.
Tip: Start the EP application process early. The FCF advertisement must run for 14 consecutive days, and MOM then processes online applications or gives an update within 10 business days, so allow time for both before the candidate's start date.
EP application checklist
Use this checklist to confirm you have everything before submitting.
- Candidate's valid passport
- Educational certificates and the verification proof MOM asks for with the candidate's qualifications
- 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
- 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
How to check your EP application status
After submission, the employer or the appointed employment agent can track the application's progress on MOM's EP eService.
Checking on EP eService
- Log in to EP eService with Singpass. The employer or agent needs a Corppass account with EP eService assigned.
- Open the section for checking the status of applications, renewals and appeals.
- Find the application you want to check.
- The portal will display the current status of the application.
What to do if your application is pending for longer than expected
MOM says online applications are processed or given an update within 10 business days, and up to 6 weeks for most cases when the company is not registered in Singapore. If that window has passed with no update, the employer should check the status on EP eService again. MOM also says to check the contact email for requests for additional documents, which can extend processing beyond 10 business days.
After a rejection: the appeal process
If the EP application is rejected, the employer (or the authorised third party who submitted it) may submit an appeal within three months of the rejection. Appeals are submitted through EP eService and should directly address the specific reasons for rejection cited by MOM.
An appeal should address the specific reasons MOM gives for the rejection. If the rejection was related to a low COMPASS score, the employer could look at whether a higher salary offer (C1), further qualification documents (C2) or a role on the Shortage Occupation List (C5 bonus points) changes the result.
If the appeal is also rejected, the employer can submit a fresh EP application, 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 or employment agent cancels the EP through EP eService within one week after the last day of notice (or within one week of departure if the holder left permanently). After cancellation, the former holder cannot work, even while waiting to leave. The employer can request a short-term visit pass (STVP) for the holder, valid for up to 90 days from the date of application.
Transitioning to a new employer
MOM does not cancel the existing pass automatically when a new pass is approved. The current employer still has to cancel it through EP eService, so the holder keeps a notice period with the current employer.
What if you have no new job lined up?
EP holders who leave their employer without a new role must leave Singapore when their STVP expires, up to 90 days from the date of application. They cannot work during that time. If a job offer comes through, the new employer can submit an EP application.
Employment Pass renewal and COMPASS
When and how to renew
EP holders should begin the renewal process well before the pass expires. Employers can apply to renew up to six months (180 days) before the expiry date, on EP eService. MOM says renewals are processed or given an update within 10 business days.
COMPASS and renewals
MOM's renewal page says that EP holders renewing a pass must pass COMPASS if the pass expires from 1 September 2024. Holders with a fixed monthly salary of at least S$22,500 are exempt. This means:
- Renewals use the C1 salary benchmarks for the period. The benchmark released in August 2025 applies to renewals of EPs expiring from 1 July 2026 to 30 June 2027, and the benchmark released in August 2026 applies to renewals of EPs expiring from 1 July 2027.
- Renewals also use the Stage 1 salary floors. Passes expiring before 1 January 2028 renew under the current floors, and passes expiring from 1 January 2028 use the 2027 floors.
Qualification list (C2)
C2 uses MOM's own list of top-tier institutions, published as a PDF on MOM's COMPASS pages. Check MOM's current list rather than a university ranking table.
Shortage Occupation List (C5)
MOM publishes the SOL on its COMPASS pages. A role on the SOL adds C5 bonus points (20 or 10, depending on the candidate's nationality share). A separate five-year EP route exists for experienced tech professionals with skills in shortage.
Tip: If your EP is due for renewal, ask your employer to run a COMPASS self-assessment now using the current C1 benchmarks. MOM publishes a new set each August. 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 lasts for the validity of the EP holder's pass or the period requested, whichever is shorter. DP holders who want to work in Singapore need their own pass or permit: MOM says a prospective employer can apply for an EP, S Pass or DP-Work Permit for them, and a DP holder who wants to run their own business can apply for a Letter of Consent.
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. Read more about LTVP for parents.
Buying property in Singapore
As a foreigner, an EP holder pays Additional Buyer's Stamp Duty (ABSD) of 60% on any residential property purchase (IRAS, for acquisitions on or after 27 April 2023). That makes buying property as a foreigner much more expensive than for PRs or citizens.
PRs pay 5% ABSD on their first residential property, compared to 60% for foreign buyers. Learn more about property rules for PRs.
Side employment
An EP is tied to the employer that sponsored it, so a holder cannot take on additional employment with a different employer on the same pass.
Employment Pass to PR: your pathway to permanent residence
Many EP holders eventually want to settle in Singapore permanently. ICA lists EP holders as an eligible category for a PR application.

When to apply
There is no fixed minimum residency period before an EP holder can apply for PR. ICA lists EP and S Pass holders as an eligible category, and it names length of residency as one of its assessment factors. A stable employment history and a consistent tax record give ICA more to assess. For a fuller view, read our EP-to-PR pathway guide or try the PR chances calculator.
What ICA assesses
EP holders (as well as S Pass holders) can apply for PR without a sponsor. ICA lists these factors:
- Economic contributions
- Qualifications
- Age and family profile
- Length of residency in Singapore
- Family ties to Singaporeans
Required documents
ICA publishes its own checklist of required documents and says you may be asked for more. Documents commonly prepared for an EP holder's application include:
- 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
ICA says it generally processes PR applications within 6 months, provided all required documents are submitted. Some applications may take longer.
Tips to improve your EP-to-PR application
- Show a stable employment record. ICA looks at your economic contributions and length of residency, and a steady record gives it more to assess.
- Show your economic contribution. ICA lists economic contributions among its factors, and salary is one way to show them. See our guide on salary requirements for PR for benchmarks by industry.
- Show your ties to Singapore. ICA lists family ties to Singaporeans among its factors. Include relevant details in your application and cover letter.
- Submit a strong cover letter. Explain why you want to make Singapore your permanent home and how you contribute to the economy and society.
- Apply with your family. ICA lists family profile among its factors, so apply with your family if you plan to settle together.
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. ICA says it generally processes applications within six months, and some take longer, so 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.
Work Pass Comparison
| Feature | Employment Pass (EP) | S Pass | ONE Pass |
|---|---|---|---|
| Target group | Professionals, managers, executives | Mid-skilled workers | Top-tier global talent |
| Minimum salary | From S$5,600/month (non-FS) or S$6,200 (FS) until 31 December 2026. New applications from 1 Jan 2027: S$6,000 (non-FS) or S$6,600 (FS) | From S$3,300/month until 31 December 2026. New applications from 1 Jan 2027: from S$3,600 | S$30,000/month |
| Validity | Up to 2 years first; up to 3 years on renewal | Up to 2 years first; up to 3 years on renewal | Up to 5 years |
| Dependant Pass | Salary of S$6,000/month or more | Salary of S$6,000/month or more | See MOM's ONE Pass page |
| PR application | ICA lists EP holders as an eligible category | ICA lists S Pass holders as an eligible category | Not a listed category on ICA's page |
When the EP is the right choice
The EP suits foreign professionals who clear the age-based salary floor (from S$5,600 at age 23 until 31 December 2026, S$6,000 from 1 January 2027) and COMPASS. ICA lists EP holders as an eligible category for PR, and an EP holder earning S$6,000 a month or more can bring a spouse and children on Dependant's Passes.
When an S Pass might apply
The S Pass is designed for mid-skilled workers and has a lower salary threshold: from S$3,300/month until 31 December 2026, and from S$3,600 for new applications from 1 January 2027. The catch is that employers are subject to a quota and levy for S Pass holders, under the Dependency Ratio Ceiling. Employers can only hire S Pass holders up to their quota. See MOM's S Pass eligibility page for the current table.
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: MOM says you do not need to reapply when you change jobs, and holders can start, operate and work for multiple companies, subject to their employment contract. It is valid for up to five years.
From 28 January 2027, candidates can apply under a new ONE Pass AI and Tech track, which MOM says will replace the existing Tech.Pass. Part of the S$30,000 salary criterion on this track may be met through a combination of cash and non-cash components. 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 without a Multiple Journey Visa and S$360 with one. That is the S$105 application fee, the S$225 issuance fee, and a S$30 Multiple Journey Visa fee that applies only if one is required. The application fee is paid when you submit, and the issuance fee is paid at issuance, once the candidate is in Singapore (MOM, 15 June 2026).
How long does it take to get an Employment Pass approved?
MOM says online applications are processed or given an update within 10 business days. For companies not registered in Singapore, MOM says the application is processed within 6 weeks for most cases.
How do I check my EP application status?
Log in to MOM's EP eService with Singpass. The employer or agent needs a Corppass account with EP eService assigned. The portal shows the current status of the application.
Can an EP holder buy property in Singapore?
Yes, but foreign buyers pay 60% Additional Buyer's Stamp Duty (ABSD) on any residential property. An EP holder is a foreign buyer for this purpose. Singapore PRs pay 5% ABSD on a first residential property, according to IRAS.
Can I start a side business while holding an EP?
Generally, no. An EP is tied to the employer that sponsored it. Check MOM's rules before you take on any secondary work or run a business.
How long should I hold my EP before applying for PR?
There is no mandatory waiting period. ICA lists EP holders as an eligible category and names length of residency as one factor among several, with no minimum stated.
What is the COMPASS framework and how is it scored?
COMPASS is a points-based system 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 not cancelled automatically when the new one is approved. Your current employer cancels it through EP eService, within one week after your last day of notice. Your new employer must apply for a fresh EP on your behalf. After cancellation you cannot work, and your employer can request a short-term visit pass (STVP) for you, valid for up to 90 days from the date of application.
Does COMPASS apply to EP renewals?
Yes. MOM's renewal page says that for passes expiring from 1 September 2024, holders renewing will need to pass the COMPASS requirements, unless their fixed monthly salary is at least S$22,500.
What is the Shortage Occupation List and how does it affect my EP?
The SOL is a list of roles that MOM treats as shortage occupations. If your role is on the SOL, you may receive bonus COMPASS points (C5): 20 if your nationality is under one third of the firm's PMETs, and 10 otherwise. The five-year EP is a separate route for experienced tech professionals with skills in shortage.
Can I apply for an Employment Pass myself?
No. The employer, or an employment agent the employer appoints, applies for the EP on EP eService. The candidate gives written consent first. If the employer has no Singapore-registered company, a local sponsor submits the application. See MOM's apply-for-a-pass page.
What are the EP salary floors from 1 January 2027?
For new applications from 1 January 2027, the floor is S$6,000 at age 23 rising to S$11,500 at age 45 and above in non-financial sectors, and S$6,600 rising to S$12,700 in financial services. The same floors apply to renewals of passes expiring from 1 January 2028 (MOM, 28 April 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 and help EP holders with eligibility assessments, document preparation, how an EP history fits ICA's PR factors, 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 processing window ICA describes (generally within six months, provided all documents are submitted).
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.




