How Can I Qualify for an Employment Pass in Singapore and What Are the Requirements?

You’ll need to meet the salary threshold, pass the COMPASS assessment, and have your qualification verified. Osome can help with both applications and renewals.

The minimum fixed monthly salary starts from S$5,600, or S$6,200 for financial services. This amount increases progressively with age, starting from age 23 and above, reaching up to S$10,700 and S$11,800 respectively for financial sectors.

Applicants generally need about 40 COMPASS points and have verified qualifications such as a university degree. First time EPs are valid 1–2 years and renewals up to 3 years. Processing typically takes 4–6 weeks.

What Is an Employment Pass (EP)?

A renewable work visa for foreign professionals, managers and executives. EPs allow qualified foreigners to live and work in Singapore under employer sponsorship.

EP Eligibility Requirements

Meet the minimum salary, achieve 40 COMPASS points, and educational qualifications are needed. Salary goes up with age, and qualifications have to be verified.

EP Validity and Renewal

First time validity is 1–2 years and renewals up to 3 years. Renewal has to be done within 6 months before expiry. Do take note that renewals depend on continued eligibility and MOM discretion.

Shareholding and Directorship

EP holders should generally serve only as shareholders or directors of the sponsoring company. If an EP holder wishes to hold a directorship in another company, a secondary directorship Letter of Consent is required.

How Can Osome Help?

Osome prepares, reviews and submits EP applications and renewals and tracks timelines. We also partner with Veremark to assist you with educational verifications (available at a fee).