Guide to Singapore Employment Pass (EP): Eligibility, Benefits & Application

Roger Pay
Jan 15, 2025
3 min read

Updated: Jan 19

Singapore Employment Pass

Guide to Singapore Employment Pass (EP): Eligibility, Benefits & Application

Secure your Singapore Employment Pass (EP) with ease. Learn about 2026 eligibility criteria, COMPASS points, salary requirements, and the application process. Get expert visa assistance from Bestar to guarantee a seamless relocation for you and your family.

Securing a Singapore Employment Pass (EP) is the primary gateway for foreign professionals, managers, and executives (PMEs) to build a career in Asia’s leading business hub. Issued by the Ministry of Manpower (MOM), the EP is designed for high-caliber talent who bring specialized skills to the Singaporean workforce.

What is the Singapore Employment Pass?

The Employment Pass is a work visa for foreign professionals working in managerial, executive, or specialized roles. Unlike other work permits, the EP is quota-free, meaning there is no cap on how many EP holders a company can hire, provided the candidates meet the stringent eligibility criteria.

Key Eligibility Requirements for 2026

To qualify for an EP, both the candidate and the hiring company must meet specific benchmarks:

Minimum Salary: Applicants must earn a fixed monthly salary of at least S$5,000. (Note: Older, more experienced candidates require higher salaries to qualify).
Qualifications: A recognized university degree or specialized professional qualifications are essential.
COMPASS Framework: Applications are now evaluated under the Complementarity Assessment Framework (COMPASS), a points-based system considering salary, qualifications, diversity, and support for local employment.
Valid Job Offer: You must have a confirmed offer from a Singapore-based entity before applying.

Top Benefits of the Employment Pass

Beyond legal work authorization, the EP offers several strategic advantages:

Family Relocation: EP holders earning at least S$6,000/month can sponsor a Dependant’s Pass for spouses and children.
Path to Permanent Residency: The EP is a common stepping stone for those looking to apply for Singapore PR status.
No Foreign Worker Levy: Employers do not have to pay a monthly levy for EP holders, unlike S Pass or Work Permit holders.

The EP Application Process at a Glance

The application is typically handled by the employer or an appointed employment agency.

Step	Action	Description
1	Job Offer	Secure a role in a managerial or specialist capacity.
2	Verification	Authenticate educational certificates through approved global screening agencies.
3	Online Filing	The employer submits the application via MOM’s myMOM Portal.
4	Assessment	MOM reviews the candidate’s profile and the company’s track record (3–8 weeks).
5	Issuance	Upon approval, an In-Principle Approval (IPA) letter is issued for entry.

Critical Considerations for Success

Tax Residency: EP holders residing in Singapore for 183 days or more are considered tax residents.
Fair Consideration Framework (FCF): Employers must generally advertise the job on MyCareersFuture for 14 days before hiring a foreigner.
Document Accuracy: Minor errors in CVs or certificates are the leading cause of application delays or rejections.

Streamline Your Move: How Bestar Can Help

Guide to Singapore Employment Pass (EP): Eligibility, Benefits & Application

Navigating the complexities of the COMPASS points system and MOM regulations can be daunting. Bestar provides end-to-end professional services to ensure your application is successful on the first attempt.

Why Choose Bestar?

Eligibility Pre-Assessment: We use MOM’s self-assessment tools and internal benchmarks to gauge your success rate before you apply.
Expert Strategy: We advise on the best pass category and help companies justify the need for foreign talent.
Hassle-Free Documentation: From certificate verification to drafting job descriptions, we handle the paperwork.
Family Support: Comprehensive assistance for Dependant’s Passes and Long-Term Visit Passes (LTVP).