A Foreigner’s Guide to Work Pass Applications in Singapore

Navigating the landscape of international immigration can be a complex endeavor, but when it comes to a meticulously planned nation like Singapore, understanding the various pathways is crucial for a successful transition. 

As a global magnet for talent, innovation, and business, Singapore offers a diverse range of work passes designed to attract a broad spectrum of professionals, from high-level executives and tech pioneers to skilled workers and ambitious entrepreneurs. 

This guide serves as a detailed and up-to-date roadmap, breaking down the most common and specialised passes, their specific requirements, and the latest policy updates you need to know to establish your career or business in the Lion City.

The Foundational Passes: EP and S Pass

At the core of Singapore’s work pass system are the Employment Pass (EP) and the S Pass. These are the most widely used passes for foreign professionals and skilled workers, respectively, and are typically applied for by a Singaporean company on behalf of the applicant.

The Employment Pass (EP)

 The EP is the primary visa for foreign professionals, managers, and executives. Eligibility is assessed on three main pillars: a job offer, a qualifying salary, and relevant qualifications. The Ministry of Manpower (MOM) uses the Complementarity Assessment Framework (COMPASS), a points-based system, to evaluate most EP applications. To be successful, you must score at least 40 points across a range of criteria.

• Salary (C1): Your fixed monthly salary must meet a minimum mark, which varies with age and is benchmarked against local PMET (Professionals, Managers, Executives, and Technicians) salaries in your industry. As of January 1, 2025, the minimum EP salary is S$5,600 for the non-financial sector and S$6,200 for the financial sector. The higher your salary relative to your peers, the more points you earn.
• Qualifications (C2): Points are awarded based on your educational background, with degrees from top-tier institutions receiving a higher score.
• Diversity (C3) & Local Employment Support (C4): These criteria assess the diversity of your nationality within the company and the company’s commitment to a local workforce.
• Bonus Criteria (C5 & C6): You can earn valuable bonus points if your profession is on the Shortage Occupation List (SOL) or if your company is involved in government-supported innovation programs.

The S Pass

The S Pass is designed for mid-level skilled workers. This pass also has a minimum salary requirement and is subject to a quota that limits the number of S Pass holders a company can employ.

• Salary: The minimum fixed monthly salary for new S Pass applications will be S$3,300 from September 1, 2025, with progressive increases for financial and older workers.
• Quota and Levy: Companies must have an available S Pass quota and pay a monthly levy for each S Pass holder.

Elite Passes for Global Talent and Innovators

Recognising the need to attract exceptional individuals, Singapore has created a suite of passes that offer greater flexibility and opportunities for top-tier talent and entrepreneurs.

Overseas Networks & Expertise Pass (ONE Pass) 

Launched to attract top-tier global talent, the ONE Pass is for high-earning individuals and exceptional professionals in arts, sports, academia, and research. Its most significant advantage is its flexibility:

• Eligibility: To qualify, you must have a fixed monthly salary of at least S$30,000 or an outstanding track record in your field. This pass is not tied to a single employer, allowing holders to start, operate, and work for multiple companies simultaneously.
• Key Feature: The ONE Pass provides a five-year validity and allows holders to bring their family members to Singapore. This makes it an ideal choice for globally mobile professionals who need flexibility and autonomy in their careers.

Tech.Pass

 As a specific offshoot of the ONE Pass, the Tech.Pass is an initiative to attract a very specialised group of tech talent. It’s for seasoned tech professionals with a strong track record of leadership and innovation.

• Eligibility: Applicants must meet two of the following three criteria:

Tech.Pass Eligibility Salary: Your document states that one of the eligibility criteria is a fixed monthly salary of at least $22,500.

Tech.Pass Eligibility Criteria: Your document correctly states that applicants must meet two of the three criteria for the Tech.Pass. However, the criteria you listed are incomplete. The three criteria for eligibility are:

1. A last-drawn fixed monthly salary of at least S$22,500 (in the last year).
2. At least five years of cumulative experience in a leading role in a tech company with a valuation/market capitalization of at least US$500 million or at least US$30 million in funding raised.
3. At least five years of cumulative experience in a leading role in the development of a tech product with at least 100,000 monthly active users or US$100 million in annual revenue.

Personalised Employment Pass (PEP)

The PEP is a highly sought-after pass for high-earning individuals already working in Singapore or overseas. Unlike the standard EP, it is not tied to a specific employer, offering unparalleled flexibility.

• Eligibility: To be eligible, you must be a current EP holder earning a fixed monthly salary of at least S$22,500 or an overseas professional with a last-drawn fixed monthly salary of at least S$22,500 within the past six months.
• Key Feature: The PEP allows you to switch jobs without having to reapply for a new pass. It also grants you a six-month grace period to find a new job if you become unemployed. However, it’s important to note that the PEP is valid for five years and is non-renewable.

EntrePass: 

For entrepreneurs with a vision to build innovative, high-growth businesses in Singapore, the EntrePass is the dedicated pathway. This pass is not based on your salary but on the strength and innovation of your business proposal.

• Eligibility: Applicants are evaluated based on their profile as an entrepreneur, innovator, or investor. The business idea must be innovative and scalable, with a solid business plan. The application is a comprehensive submission that demonstrates your track record and the potential of your venture.
• Key Feature: This pass is for individuals who want to be hands-on founders. It allows you to register and operate a private limited company in Singapore and is a key channel for those who are building a business from the ground up, with a focus on intellectual property, venture backing, or significant entrepreneurial experience.

Bringing Your Family to Singapore: Dependant’s Pass

For many, the move to Singapore is a family affair. If you hold a work pass with a fixed monthly salary of at least S$6,000, you are eligible to apply for a Dependant’s Pass (DP) for your legal spouse and unmarried children under 21. While a Dependant’s Pass does not automatically grant the right to work, DP holders can apply for their own work passes to seek employment, providing a pathway for spouses to build their own careers.

The Singaporean Advantage: Why the Right Pass Matters

Choosing the right work pass is more than just about a visa; it’s about aligning your professional aspirations with the most suitable immigration framework. Whether you are a top executive seeking flexibility with a PEP, a tech leader aiming to innovate with a Tech.Pass, or a visionary entrepreneur ready to launch your next big idea with an EntrePass, Singapore offers a pass tailored for your specific needs. Understanding these nuances is the first step toward a seamless and successful professional journey in this dynamic city-state.

Navigating Singapore’s immigration system can be intricate, with specific documentation and requirements for each pass. Our team of professionals is dedicated to providing the expert guidance you need to ensure a smooth and successful application.Let us simplify your journey to working and living in Singapore. Contact us or email us at marketing@xignam.com today for a personalised consultation.