Singapore Work Pass Application Guide
I would like to immigrate to Singapore and start my life as a working professional in Singapore.
Work Pass
Application
I would like to immigrate to Singapore and start my life as a working professional in Singapore.
Work Pass Application
Singapore offers many career opportunities that attract foreign talents and expats to work and start their working life here. In order for foreigners to work in Singapore, you will need to possess at least one of the working passes unless you are a Singapore Permanent Resident. Depending on the nature of your job, salary, education and more, you may be required to get a Work Permit (WP), S Pass or an Employment Pass (EP). There are mainly these 3 types of major passes issued by Ministry of Manpower (MOM) that we are going to discuss here.
1. Work Permit
Work Permits (WP) are for semi-skilled or blue-collar foreign workers from a pre-approved list of countries (Asian countries such as Malaysia, Hong Kong, South Korea, India, Thailand and China). The worker is only allowed to work for a direct employer and in the specified occupation. Usually, WP holders work in labour-intensive sectors that may include construction, marine shipyard, manufacturing and service sector. There is no minimum qualifying salary for applying work permit, however, there is a cap on the maximum length of employment and age limits and the employer must pay a monthly levy to the Singapore government.
The candidates cannot apply for Singapore work permit themselves, as an Employer Sponsor is required for every application. The employer or appointed agent can apply for a WP online. The WP is renewable and can last up to 2 years.
2. S Pass
S Pass is issued to mid-level skilled professional foreigners who may meet the criteria for Employment Pass. There is a minimum qualifying salary for this type of work pass. The qualifying salaries vary according to the work experience and the age of candidates. The minimum fixed monthly salary of $3,150 (and increases progressively with age, up to $4,650 for those in mid-40s) is required for this pass. Candidates in the financial service sector need higher salaries to qualify.
An employer or appointed employment agent must apply on behalf of the applicant. If the pass holder changes jobs, the new employer has to apply for a new pass.
A quota is also imposed for each company as to how many S Pass holders they can employ. S pass is renewable and can last up to 2 years.
3. Employment Pass (EP)
Employment Pass (EP) is issued to foreign professionals in managerial, executives or some specialized roles positions. Fixed monthly salary comparable to the top one-third of local PMET salaries, starting from $5,000 and increases progressively with age, up to $10,500 for those in the mid-40s. Candidates in the financial services sector need higher salaries to qualify.
To qualify for EP applications, candidates will need to pass a 2-stage eligibility framework. Unless exempted, candidates will need to pass the points-based Complementarity Assessment Framework (COMPASS).
Other than that, the candidates will also need to have a good university degree, professional qualifications, or possess special skills. There are no quotas or levies imposed for EP holders. The EP is valid for 2 years and is renewable for 3 years.
An employer or appointed employment agent needs to apply on behalf of the candidate.
For an overseas company without a Singapore-registered office, they will need to apply through a local sponsor.
It is important to note that the requirements for work passes applications and procedures may change from time to time, so it’s crucial to consult the official websites of the Immigration and Checkpoints Authority (ICA) and the Ministry of Manpower (MOM) in Singapore for the most up-to-date information and guidance related to LTVP applications.
Majestic Immigration Singapore offers professional and expert guidance to applying for work passes. We can help to provide full fledge service and advice to help settle yourself here in Singapore. Connect with us to find out more.