Looking for a Job in Singapore? Here’s What You Need to Know About Work Passes

Many foreigners dream of working in Singapore, and here are a few important things to keep in mind during your job hunt:

1. Start with Job Portals
First of all, start by looking at job portals. Websites like MyCareersFuture, JobStreet, and LinkedIn,  are popular platforms where companies post job openings. These sites allow you to filter jobs that are open to foreigners.

2. Be Transparent with Employers
When applying, let employers know that you’ll require a work pass. Most companies are familiar with this process, but they’ll need to assess your qualifications and salary expectations first.

3. Check Eligibility for Work Passes
Another important thing to keep in mind is that different passes have different criteria:

• Employment Pass (EP): For professionals, usually requires a degree and a minimum fixed salary (S$5,600/month and above depending on the sector).
  
  
• S Pass: For mid-skilled workers, requires a lower salary threshold (S$3,150/month), but is subject to stricter quotas.
  
  
• Work Permit: For lower-skilled roles in specific sectors like construction or cleaning.
  
  

4. Use the MOM Self-Assessment Tool (SAT)
Before applying, you can try the MOM SAT Tool to check if you’re likely to qualify for a work pass based on your education and salary. This provides you with a clear overview about your qualifications so that you can choose your job more carefully.

5. Be Aware of Quotas and Levies
As mentioned previously, some work passes have quotas. Especially for S Pass, companies have to manage quotas (percentage of foreign workers allowed) and pay levies. This affects whether they can hire you, even if you’re qualified.

Final Tip: Work pass approval is not just about your qualifications — it also depends on the employer’s quota, business profile, and industry.

Here is a summary about each pass.

Employment Pass (EP): What You Need to Know

Who it’s for: Professionals, managers, executives

Main Criteria:
1.Fixed monthly salary of at least S$5,600 (higher for finance/older applicants)
2.Recognized university degree or diploma
3.Relevant work experience
4.Company must justify your role and contribution

Other Important Notes:
1.No quota or levy, but approval depends on company profile
2.Use MOM Self-Assessment Tool (SAT) to check eligibility
3.Renewable every 1–3 years

S Pass: Mid-Skilled Workers’ Entry Pass

Who it’s for: Technicians, supervisors, mid-level roles

Main Criteria:
1.Monthly salary at least S$3,150 (older applicants need more)
2.Recognized diploma or technical qualifications
3.Relevant work experience

Important Notes:
1.Quota & levy apply — companies can only hire a certain % of S Pass holders
2.Valid for up to 2 years, renewable

Work Permit: For Lower-Skilled Foreign Workers

Who it’s for: Workers in sectors like construction, manufacturing, cleaning, and marine

Main Criteria:
1.No formal education required
2.Must be from MOM-approved source countries
3.Company must apply on your behalf

Important Info:
1.Strict quotas
2.Medical & security checks required
3.Not eligible for PR or family sponsorship