Employment Pass in Singapore: Essential Guide to Process, Approval, and Appeals
- Modified: 23 September 2025
- 11 min read
- Running a Business
Ruth Dsouza
Author
Ruth Dsouza Prabhu is a content developer with a passion for turning ideas into clear, engaging narratives. With a strong background in marketing communications and lifestyle writing, she simplifies complex business topics for entrepreneurs. Her work spans strategy, storytelling, and thought leadership, always focused on clarity, credibility, and impact.
Deepti Laddha
Reviewer
Deepti Laddha, our Head of Corporate Operations in Singapore, brings a decade of experience to her role, supporting our business writers in crafting insightful and engaging articles. With a strong background in corporate services, Deepti is a rich source of knowledge and expertise. We can count on her to assist in transforming any definition, concept or complicated jargon into helpful tips that help our readers take their businesses to the next level.
The Employment Pass Singapore is a necessary work visa for foreign professionals, managers, and executives aiming to work in Singapore. This guide will help you understand eligibility criteria, application steps, and how to track your application status.
Key Takeaways
- The Employment Pass (EP) is a visa for foreign professionals and foreign entrepreneurs in Singapore, with eligibility based on minimum salary and acceptable qualifications to attract skilled talent.
- The application process for an Employment Pass is initiated online through the Ministry of Manpower, with typical processing times of 10 business days for online submissions.
- EP holders earning S$ 6,000+ can bring spouse and children to Singapore, and S$ 12,000+ is required to sponsor parents. Eligible EP holders may also apply for Permanent Residency.
What Is an Employment Pass in Singapore?
The Employment Pass (EP) is a work visa for foreign professionals, managers, and executives, including those in the financial services sector. Designed for overseas foreign professionals, managers, and executives looking to work in Singapore, it aligns with the nation’s strategy to attract highly skilled talent for economic growth. The EP enables qualified individuals to hold key positions in various sectors, contributing significantly to the local employment landscape. Additionally, the E Pass serves as an alternative option for those looking to work in Singapore.
The Employment Pass, unlike other work visas, is tailored for highly skilled professionals, offering opportunities to work in Singapore’s competitive job market. This underscores Singapore’s dedication to sustaining a dynamic workforce and its status as a global business hub, including various work passes and Singapore employment, as well as a work pass.
When you incorporate your company with Osome, we can also handle your Employment Pass application. From preparing documents to submitting online and tracking progress, we make the process seamless so you can focus on growing your business in Singapore.
Eligibility Criteria for Employment Pass
To qualify for an Employment Pass in Singapore, candidates must meet both salary and skills requirements, as well as pass the COMPASS framework assessment.
Stage 1: EP qualifying salary
The minimum qualifying salary depends on the sector, application type, and the candidate’s age.
Sector | Renewal of passes expiring 1 Jan 2025 – 31 Dec 2025 | New applications from 1 Jan 2025 & renewals of passes expiring from 1 Jan 2026 |
|---|---|---|
| All (except financial services) | S$ 5,000 (increases progressively with age, up toS$ 10,500 at age 45+) | S$ 5,600 (progressively increases with age, up to S$ 10,700 at age 45+) |
| Financial services | S$ 5,500 (progressively increases with age, up to S$ 11,500 at age 45+ | S$ 6,200 (progressively increases with age, up to S$ 11,800 at age 45+) |
Applicants may provide acceptable qualifications such as a good university degree, professional credentials, or specialised skills relevant to the role. While qualifications are not mandatory, they can help earn points under the COMPASS framework. Candidates without formal professional qualifications can still meet eligibility by earning points in other areas, such as salary or relevant experience. Supporting documents, including proof of acceptable qualifications and a detailed employment history, should be submitted where applicable. Salary thresholds for the services sector align closely with those for other industries outside of the financial sector.
Fast-growing tech companies expanding to Singapore may be eligible for the Tech@SG Programme, which helps attract and retain key tech talent.
Stage 2: COMPASS framework
Applicants who meet the qualifying salary move to the second stage — COMPASS (Complementarity Assessment Framework). This is a transparent, points-based system designed to:
- Help employers select top talent and high-quality foreign professionals
- Encourage workforce diversity
- Strengthen Singapore’s local talent core
The COMPASS framework ensures that Singapore remains competitive in attracting global talent to strengthen its workforce. Venture backed startups may find that Complementarity Assessment Framework (COMPASS) accommodates innovative company structures and high-growth potential.<br>
Candidates who do not meet the qualifying salary under Stage 1 will not be eligible for an EP, regardless of their COMPASS score.
Documents Required for Employment Pass
Before submitting an Employment Pass application, managers and candidates must prepare the necessary documents to ensure smooth processing. Missing or incorrect paperwork can cause delays or rejection.
Core documents:
- Personal particulars page of the candidate’s passport.
- If the candidate’s name differs across documents, an explanation letter and supporting documents (e.g. deed poll).
- The company’s latest business profile or instant information registered with ACRA.
- Verification proof of acceptable qualifications (if applicable). Having the required documents ready can help avoid resubmissions or delays in processing.
Additional documents may be required for:
- Healthcare professionals, lawyers, football players or coaches.
- Employees working in a food establishment.
Application and renewal of Singapore Employment Pass online
A visa that allows you to work and reside in Singapore from S$ 950. We will take care of the application and handle the process quickly and easily.
Application Process for Employment Pass
The Employment Pass application follows a clear, step-by-step process — from submission to card delivery — ensuring candidates and managers know exactly what to expect.
Employers or authorised employment agents can apply for an Employment Pass online through the MOM EP eService. This digital process streamlines applications, reduces paperwork, and ensures accurate submission of documents.
1. Submitting the application
- Employers or authorised employment agents must obtain written consent from the candidate.
- The candidate completes a form with personal details required for the application.
- Submit the Employment Pass online application and upload supporting documents.
- Pay the S$ 105 application fee using GIRO, Visa, Mastercard, or Amex.
- Employment Pass online applications are typically processed or updated within 10 business days. For overseas companies without a Singapore-registered entity, processing may take up to 8 weeks.
- It is the responsibility of the employer submitting the application to ensure all documents are accurate and complete with all necessary details.
2. Preparing for arrival
Candidates do not need to be in Singapore at the time of application. Once approved, they should prepare for travel and employment start.
3. Getting the pass issued
- If approved, print the In-Principle Approval (IPA) letter.
- Log in to the EP eService to issue the pass within 6 months of IPA approval.
- Pay the issuance fees: S$ 225 per pass, plus S$ 30 for each Multiple Journey Visa (if applicable).
- Both employer and candidate will receive a notification letter by email, valid for 1 month. This letter allows the candidate to start work and travel in and out of Singapore while waiting for the card.
4. Registering fingerprints and photo
If required, the candidate must register fingerprints and have their photo taken at the Employment Pass Services Centre (EPSC).
5. Receiving the pass card
The Employment Pass card is delivered within 5 working days after fingerprint registration or document verification. Delivery is made to the given address, either to the candidate or an authorised recipient.
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Employment Pass Processing Time
The processing period for online Employment Pass applications is typically around 10 business days, a relatively swift period that helps avoid prolonged waiting times.
Applications submitted manually by overseas companies without a local entity may take up to 8 weeks to process. Managers should allow for additional time if MOM requests more updated information or supporting documents.
Understanding these timelines helps applicants and managers plan accordingly, ensuring minimal disruptions to business operations and job commencement.
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A step-by-step checklist to get organised before incorporating your new business
Checking Your Employment Pass Status
You can check the status of your Employment Pass application online through the MOM portal.
You may start checking your application status after 10 business days. If the status remains pending, check your email in case MOM has requested additional information or documents.
If additional documents are required:
- Processing will take longer than the standard 10 working days.
- Submit the documents via the portal by selecting Work Passes→ Application record→ Submit documents.
- Alternatively, you can click View details to see the specific action required.
- In some cases, MOM may direct you to submit documents using an online form provided in their email.
- If any updates are needed, the employer may also need to notify MOM through the relevant channel.
Employers and applicants can also use the MyMOM Portal for application tracking and accessing related services, including appeals.
Appealing a Rejected Employment Pass Application
If your Employment Pass application is rejected, you have up to 3 months to file an appeal. Appeals should only be made if you can address the reasons for rejection, as there will be no change in outcome without new information.
You can view the rejection advisory in EP eService (or the rejection letter if you applied manually) to understand why the application was unsuccessful and what steps to take, including submitting a job offer clarification if requested. Before appealing, it is recommended to:
- Use the Self-Assessment Tool (SAT) to check if the candidate meets the eligibility criteria.
- Review the advisory carefully to ensure the issues can be resolved.
Who can appeal: Only the employer or authorised employment agent who submitted the application can file an appeal. MOM will not accept appeals directly from candidates.
How to appeal:
- Submit the appeal online through EP eService within 3 months of rejection.
- If MOM requests further documents, follow the instructions in their email and submit them through the online form provided.
- You can log in to EP eService at any time to check the appeal status or print the outcome letter.
Processing time: About 85% of appeals are processed within 6 weeks, though some may take longer depending on the case.
Note: If you miss the 3-month window, a new application must be submitted instead of an appeal.
Strengthen your appeal by addressing MOM’s rejection advisory directly with supporting documents, rather than resubmitting the same information.
Family Passes for Employment Pass Holders
Employment Pass holders earning at least S$ 6,000 per month can bring certain family members to Singapore, allowing them to maintain family life while working in the country. Managers and executives must submit a separate application for each family member through the MOM portal, either together with the EP application or at a later stage. Applicants must meet a fixed monthly salary threshold to sponsor dependants under the relevant pass type, such as a dependant's pass.
The pass type that each family member can apply for depends on their relationship to the EP holder:
Family member | Pass type |
|---|---|
| Legally married spouse | Dependant’s Pass |
| Unmarried children under 21 years old (including legally adopted children) | Dependant’s Pass |
| Common-law spouse | Long-Term Visit Pass (LTVP) |
| Unmarried handicapped children aged 21 and above | Long-Term Visit Pass (LTVP) |
| Unmarried step-children under 21 years old | Long-Term Visit Pass (LTVP) |
| Parents (only for EP holders earning at least S$ 12,000 per month) | Long-Term Visit Pass (LTVP) |
Dependant’s Pass and LTVP holders who wish to work in Singapore must apply for a Letter of Consent (LOC) before starting employment.
Employment Pass Renewal Process
Employers can start the Employment Pass renewal up to six months before expiration. EP renewal applications typically take around 10 business days for processing via the myMOM Portal.
Eligibility criteria: Candidates must meet the minimum monthly salary qualification and pass the Complementarity Assessment Framework (COMPASS) assessment to qualify for renewal.
Candidates earning at least S$ 22,500 fixed monthly salary are exempted from COMPASS.
EP (Sponsorship) holders can begin the renewal process up to three months before their pass expires. To renew, employers must download and complete the EP (Sponsorship) renewal application form, then submit it together with the required supporting documents using the online form. Successful applications result in an in-principle approval (IPA) letter, valid for three months, ensuring continued employment and EP eligibility without disruption. The renewal outcome will be emailed to the contact person listed in the application. Renewal forms must reflect the updated fixed monthly salary, COMPASS scores, and other changes to comply with renewal criteria.
Pathway to Permanent Residency for Employment Pass Holders
The Employment Pass plays a vital role in attracting skilled talent to meet Singapore’s economic needs. EP holders can apply for Permanent Residency by meeting criteria set by the Immigration and Checkpoints Authority (ICA), offering long-term stability for foreign professionals, managers, and executives contributing to Singapore’s growth.
PR application assessment factors include:
- Family connections to Singapore citizens
- Economic contributions
- Qualifications
- Age
- Residency duration
Candidates with a consistent monthly salary history and strong education credentials are more likely to receive approval. Successful applicants receive In-Principle Approval before being granted permanent residence status, confirming they meet all criteria to live and work in Singapore indefinitely.
How Can Osome Help You Get Your Employment Pass?
With Osome’s expert immigration services, you can simplify every step of the Employment Pass process and improve your chances of success. Our team helps you submit applications, handle cancellations, and apply for a Letter of Consent when holders need additional directorships, all while navigating complex MOM regulations. By leveraging Osome’s professional guidance, you can focus on growing your business while we manage the paperwork and compliance for a smoother, faster EP experience.
Summary
In summary, the Employment Pass is a vital tool for foreign professionals, managers, and executives seeking to contribute to Singapore’s vibrant economy. Whether you’re a growing startup that possesses innovative technologies or a venture backed firm in the services sector, the Employment Pass enables strategic hiring. While Employment Passes cater to professionals, S Pass holders represent another group of skilled foreign workers and top talent contributing to Singapore’s total workforce. From navigating the application process and exploring pathways to permanent residency, this guide provides comprehensive insights to help you succeed.
Ruth Dsouza Prabhu is a content developer with a passion for turning ideas into clear, engaging narratives. With a strong background in marketing communications and lifestyle writing, she simplifies complex business topics for entrepreneurs. Her work spans strategy, storytelling, and thought leadership, always focused on clarity, credibility, and impact.
