Are you looking out for reliable resources on how to get an employment pass in Singapore? You’re in the right place!
Working in Singapore is a sought-after opportunity, the bustling city-state known for its thriving economy and diverse culture. But before you can start your dream job, you need to navigate the Employment Pass application process.
Getting your Employment Pass in Singapore doesn’t have to be a headache. We’ve put together a handy guide that covers everything you need to know – from eligibility requirements to must-have documents and even a few pro tips to help you nail your application.
With our insider knowledge, you’ll be well on your way to kickstarting your career in the Lion City.
Eligibility requirements for Singapore Employment Pass
If you’re a foreign professional looking for your answer on “how to get an employment pass in Singapore”, the first step is to make sure you meet the eligibility criteria for an Employment Pass. As someone who’s been through the process myself, I can tell you that the key things MOM looks at are your salary, qualifications, and work experience. In addition, MOM also looks at your company profile such as the company finances, company size and company annual turnover.
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Minimum Salary threshold
To qualify for an Employment Pass in Singapore, you need to command a minimum fixed monthly salary of at least S$5,600. This applies if you’re a fresh graduate from a good university. But if you’re older and more experienced, the salary requirement goes up.
MOM has a tiered system where the minimum qualifying salary progressively increases with age, up to S$10,700 if you’re in your 40s. So before you even think about applying, make sure your job offer meets the salary criteria for your age group. Trust me, you don’t want to go through all the trouble of applying only to get rejected on this basis.
Required documents
When it comes to the paperwork, there are a few key documents required for your Employment Pass application:
- A duly completed application form
- Your educational certificates and MOM approved background screening companies
- Detailed resume or CV
- Copy of your passport bio-data page
- Your employer’s latest business profile or instant information from ACRA
Make sure you have clear, legible copies of all these documents ready to go. Any missing or unclear documents can delay your application.
Educational qualifications
While the Employment Pass is mainly for foreign professionals, managers, executives and specialists, having the right educational background is still important.
You should have a good university degree, professional qualifications, or specialist skills that are relevant to your job. A degree from a reputable university can really help your case. But don’t worry if you don’t have a degree. Extensive, relevant work experience can sometimes make up for the lack of formal educational qualifications. I’ve seen people get approved based on their solid track record.
The key is to show that you have the expertise and skills to excel in your role and contribute to Singapore’s economy. So highlight your achievements and specialisations in your resume and application.
Do note that if you are declaring your education qualification, MOM will require employers/candidates to obtain and share the Verification Proof Certificate for bachelor degree and above qualifications declared to MOM from approved background screening companies. Most verification checks can be completed within 14 working daysYou can consider approaching our Partner Veremark for the education qualification verification service. Alternatively, you may consider not to declare the qualification to save the time and cost of obtaining a Verification Proof if the candidate meets the EP requirement without declaring the qualification.
If you have graduated from China Universities, you can either provide the:Verification Proof Certificate from approved background screening companies or China Higher Education Student Information and Career Center (CHSI)
Degree and above: Online Verification Report of Higher Education Degree Certificate
Step-by-step guide to apply for an Employment Pass
Applying for an Employment Pass in Singapore can seem daunting at first, but it’s actually a pretty straightforward online process. As someone who’s helped multiple colleagues and friends through the application, let me break it down for you step by step.
Create an account
The first thing you need to do is create an account on MOM’s MyMOM portal. You’ll need a SingPass to log in. If you’re applying through your employer or an appointed employment agent, they will request access from MOM the account and fill in the application for you. But it’s good to familiarise yourself with the portal anyway.
You can sign up for access to MyMOM Portal if you are:
- A business owner (Must be either a Singapore citizen or Singapore permanent resident or EntreePass holder)
- An employee of a registered business (Must either be Singapore citizen or Singapore permanent resident)
- A foreign employee of a registered business (Must be an Employment Pass (EP), Personalised Employment Pass, or S Pass holder)
Submit online application
Once your account access is approved and set up, it’s time to fill in and submit the online application form. This is where you’ll enter all your personal particulars, educational details, passport information, and your employer’s contact details.
Make sure all the information is accurate and matches your supporting documents. Any discrepancies can raise red flags and delay your application.
Pay application fee
There is a small fee of $105 for submitting an Employment Pass application. You can pay this easily by credit card or other electronic payment methods. The fee is non-refundable, even if your application is rejected. So make sure you’ve double-checked your eligibility and documents before hitting that submit button.
Upload supporting documents
After you’ve submitted your application and paid the fee, you’ll need to upload digital copies of all your supporting documents like verification proof of educational qualification, passport, and. Make sure the scans are clear and in the required file format. If MOM can’t read or verify your documents, they may ask you to resubmit them, which will delay the processing.
Await approval
And now, you wait. The processing time for an Employment Pass application is usually about 3 weeks, but it can take longer if MOM needs additional documents or clarifications. You can check your application status anytime through the MyMOM Portal.
Once it’s approved, you’ll get an in-principle approval (IPA) letter that’s valid for 6 months. The IPA letter isn’t the actual pass though. You’ll need to get your pass issued after you arrive in Singapore. But that’s a whole other process that your employer or appointed Employment Agent will help you with.
Processing time and notification of Employment Pass application
One of the most common questions about Employment Pass applications is, “How long does it take?” The suspense can be nerve-wracking, especially if you’re eager to start your new job in Singapore.
Well, according to our experience, the processing time for an Employment Pass is typically about 3 weeks from the day you submit a complete application with all the required documents.
But here’s the thing – that processing time isn’t set in stone. It’s more of an estimate.
Applications may get approved in as little as a week, while others have taken over a month. A lot depends on the completeness of your application, the complexity of your case, and whether MOM needs any additional documents or clarifications from you. So, there is a possibility that an application could take longer than expected.
The good news is, you can easily check your application status online through the MyMOM Portal.” You’ll be able to see whether your application is still pending, approved, or rejected. If MOM needs any additional documents from you, you’ll see a notification here too. If you do not have access to MyMOM Portal.
Once your application is approved, you’ll get an email notification with an in-principle approval (IPA) letter attached. The IPA is valid for 6 months, and you’ll need to get your pass issued within this time. If your application is rejected, you’ll get an email notification as well, with the reason for rejection.
Common reasons include incomplete documents, not meeting the salary or qualification criteria, or if MOM assesses that a local could fill the position. If you think the rejection is unfair, you can always file an appeal within 3 months, but you’ll need to provide additional documents or justifications to support your case.
The key is to make sure your application is as complete and compelling as possible from the get-go. Provide detailed explanations for your role, include strong recommendation letters, and double-check that you meet all the criteria.
And if you do get that coveted approval letter, congratulations. You’re one step closer to starting your new life and career in Singapore. It’s important to remember that the approval letter isn’t the end of the journey.
You still need to get your pass issued, notify MOM of any changes, and make sure you comply with all the conditions of your pass. Your employer should be able to guide you through all of that.
Getting an Employment Pass in Singapore means meeting specific salary, qualification, and experience criteria. Start by ensuring your job offer meets the minimum salary based on age and qualifications. Gather all necessary documents like educational certificates and a detailed resume. The application process is online through MOM’s MyMOM Portal—submit your form, pay the fee, upload documents, and wait for approval within about 3 weeks.
Additional documents that may be required
Sometimes, the Ministry of Manpower (MOM) needs more than just the basics to process your Employment Pass application. They may request extra documents to get a clearer picture of your credentials and the company you’ll be working for.
This could include things like proof of your company’s ongoing business and company’s financial ability to sustain operational expenses or a more detailed resume from you. In my experience, it’s best to have these additional documents ready to go, just in case. It can save you a lot of time and hassle in the long run.
Don’t let missing documents delay your application
The last thing you want is for your Employment Pass application to get held up because of missing paperwork. Trust me, I’ve seen it happen more times than I can count.
That’s why it’s crucial to provide any additional documents requested by MOM as quickly as possible. The sooner they have everything they need, the sooner they can process your application and get you started in your new job.
Proof of company’s ongoing business and company’s financial ability to pay annual staff cost: The key to a successful application
Two of the most common additional documents requested by MOM are Proof of company’s ongoing business and company’s financial ability to pay annual staff cost These documents gives MOM a better understanding of the company you’ll be working for, including its size, industry, and financial health.
Passes for family members of Employment Pass holders
Moving to a new country for work can be tough, especially if you have to leave your loved ones behind. But the good news is that Employment Pass holders in Singapore can bring certain family members with them.
If you’re an Employment Pass holder earning at least S$6,000 per month, your spouse and unmarried children under 21 can apply for a Dependant’s Pass. This allows them to live with you in Singapore. For parents, common-law spouses, and unmarried children with disabilities who are over 21, a Long Term Visit Pass is available.
It’s not quite the same as a Dependant’s Pass, but it still allows them to stay in Singapore with you.
Bringing your family along for the ride
Some people remember when they first moved to Singapore for work. They were excited about the opportunity, but they hated the thought of being away from their families. Thankfully, they were able to reunite with them all thanks to the Dependant’s Pass.
This pass made the whole experience so much better, knowing that expats had a strong support system. If you’re an Employment Pass holder, it’s highly recommended to look into the Dependant’s Pass and Long-Term Visit Pass options for your family members. It can make a world of difference in your quality of life and overall happiness in your new home.
Maintaining your Employment Pass status
Getting your Employment Pass is just the beginning. The real challenge is maintaining your pass status and making sure you don’t run into any issues down the line.
One of the most important things to keep in mind is the expiration date on your Employment Pass card. You’ll need to renew your pass before it expires to avoid any disruptions to your employment and stay in Singapore. Your employer or appointed agent can apply for renewal up to six months before your pass expires.
But don’t wait until the last minute. It’s always better to start the renewal process early, just in case there are any hiccups along the way.
Staying on top of your Employment Pass status
Another thing to keep in mind is your Short-Term Visit Pass or immigration pass. If you’re entering Singapore on one of these passes while waiting for your Employment Pass to be approved, make sure you know when it expires. Overstaying your visit pass can lead to serious consequences, including fines and even deportation.
Keep a close eye on all your pass expiration dates and set reminders for yourself to start the employment pass renewal process well in advance. It may seem like a small thing, but it can save you a lot of stress and headaches in the long run.
Staying on top of your Employment Pass status
Another thing to keep in mind is your Short-Term Visit Pass or immigration pass. If you’re entering Singapore on one of these passes while waiting for your Employment Pass to be approved, make sure you know when it expires. Overstaying your visit pass can lead to serious consequences, including fines and even deportation.
Keep a close eye on all your pass expiration dates and set reminders for yourself to start the renewal process well in advance. It may seem like a small thing, but it can save you a lot of stress and headaches in the long run.
Always have extra documents ready and respond quickly to requests from MOM to avoid delays in your Employment Pass application. Don’t forget, you can bring a family with a Dependant’s or Long Term Visit Pass. Keep an eye on expiration dates to maintain your status smoothly. If you are a top-tier professional or manager and looking to move to Singapore, you might want to read our guide on how to get a PEP.
Role of employment agents and background screening
Employment agents play a significant role in assisting companies with the Employment Pass application process in Singapore. These agents are well-versed in the requirements and procedures involved in obtaining an Employment Pass.
They can guide you through the entire process, from gathering the necessary documents to submitting the application on your behalf. This can save you a lot of time and hassle, especially if you’re not familiar with the process.
Additionally, background screening companies may be engaged to verify the credentials and employment history of foreign professionals, ensuring the accuracy and authenticity of the information provided in the application.
This is particularly important in light of the recent changes to the Employment Pass application process, which require all post-secondary diploma and above qualifications declared to MOM in new EP applications to be supported with verification proof from background screening companies listed on MOM’s website.
How to qualify for an Employment Pass (EP)
Stage 1: The EP application has to meet the EP qualifying salary based on age and sector.
For candidates in the non-financial services sector, the EP qualifying salary starts from $5,000 for someone who is around 23 years old and up to $10,500 for someone around 45.
For candidates in the financial services sector, the qualifying salary is slightly higher as the sector generally pays higher.
Other supporting criteria includes the company profile. The size of the company, how many employees the company has, what is the turnover the company is generating, the company finances (whether the company finances is sound and if the company has the ability to pay the candidate).
On the candidate side, is mainly the working experience, qualification and their history whether they held a pass in SG, whether they have worked or studied in SG before and if they have any adverse records with any government agencies , owing tax to IRAS. You can refer to the salary requirement by age and business sector for Stage 1.
Stage 2: Complementarity assessment framework for Employment Pass applications
In 2023, Singapore introduced the Complementarity Assessment Framework (COMPASS) for Employment Pass applications. This framework assesses the complementarity of foreign professionals to the local workforce, ensuring that they bring skills in short supply and support local employment.
Under COMPASS, Employment Pass candidates are evaluated based on a set of individual and company attributes, including salary, qualifications, diversity, and support for local employment.
The program also considers certain cases where applicants may be exempted from COMPASS. Employers are required to provide additional information about the foreign professional’s role and the company’s recruitment efforts to hire local candidates. This information is used to assess the company’s commitment to developing the local workforce and supporting local employment.
How COMPASS works
The Complementarity Assessment Framework (COMPASS) is a points-based system that evaluates Employment Pass applications based on a set of individual and company attributes. The system awards points for each attribute, and the applicant must score a minimum of 40 points to be eligible for an Employment Pass. The individual attributes considered under COMPASS include:
- Salary
- Qualifications
The company attributes considered under COMPASS include:
- Diversity
- Support for local employment
- Skills bonus
- Strategic economic priority bonus
The points awarded for each attribute vary depending on the specific circumstances of the applicant and the company. For example, an applicant with a higher salary and better qualifications will score more points than an applicant with a lower salary and fewer qualifications.
Similarly, a company that has a strong track record of hiring and developing local talent will score more points than a company that relies heavily on foreign workers.
Intra-Corporate transferees and Employment Pass
Intra-Corporate Transferees (ICTs) are employees of multinational corporations who are transferred to a branch or subsidiary in Singapore. ICTs who meet the eligibility criteria can apply for an Employment Pass.
To qualify as an ICT, the employee must have worked for the company for at least one year and be filling a managerial, executive, or specialised knowledge role in Singapore.
The company must also demonstrate that the transfer is necessary for the operation of the business in Singapore. ICTs are exempted from the Complementarity Assessment Framework (COMPASS) and are not required to meet the minimum salary threshold for Employment Pass applications.
However, they must still meet the other eligibility criteria, such as having acceptable qualifications and being offered a job that is commensurate with their work experience.
Benefits of Intra-Corporate transfers
Intra-corporate transfers offer several benefits to both the employee and the company.
For the employee, an intra-corporate transfer can provide an opportunity to gain international work experience and advance their career within the company.
For the company, intra-corporate transfers can help to ensure continuity of operations and facilitate the transfer of knowledge and skills between different branches or subsidiaries.
This can be particularly important for companies that operate in multiple countries and require a high degree of coordination and collaboration between different offices. Intra-corporate transfers can also be a cost-effective way for companies to fill key positions in their Singapore operations.
By transferring an existing employee from another branch or subsidiary, the company can avoid the time and expense of recruiting and training a new employee.
Employment agents and background checks are key in the Singapore Employment Pass process, guiding applications and verifying info to avoid rejections. COMPASS assesses foreign professionals’ fit with local needs, while Intra-Corporate Transferees get a smoother path thanks to exemptions.
Conclusion
There you have it – your comprehensive guide on how to get an Employment Pass in Singapore. We’ve covered the eligibility criteria, the documents you’ll need for your work pass, and the application process itself. It may seem like a lot to take in, but with careful preparation and attention to detail, you’ll be well on your way to securing your Employment Pass. Embrace the journey to your Employment Pass with open arms! Gather up those essential documents, double-check that you’ve met every requirement, and let patience be your guide. In the vibrant land of Singapore, a world of exciting possibilities awaits – and with your work pass in hand, you’ll be more than ready to make your mark. If you’re looking to start a small business in Singapore, and need reliable yet affordable services on business registration, accounting, and tax compliance, connect with a local expert at Sleek.Sources
Frequently asked questions about how to get an Employment Pass in Singapore
What are the eligibility criteria for an Employment Pass in Singapore?
To qualify for an Employment Pass, applicants must have a job offer in Singapore, meet minimum salary requirements (starting from SGD 5,600 for non-financial sector roles and SGD 6,200 for financial sector roles), and possess acceptable qualifications. The salary threshold increases with age, reaching up to SGD 10,700 for applicants aged 45 and above.
How do I apply for an Employment Pass?
The application process involves the employer or an authorized employment agent submitting an online application along with required documents such as the applicant’s passport details, educational certificates, and employment offer details. After submitting the application, it generally takes about 3 weeks for processing; however, it can take longer for overseas companies without a registered office in Singapore.
Can I bring my family to Singapore on an Employment Pass?
Yes, EP holders earning at least SGD 6,000 per month can apply for Dependant’s Passes for their legally married spouses and children under 21 years of age. Those earning SGD 12,000 or more can also sponsor parents for a Long-Term Visit Pass.
What happens if my Employment Pass application is rejected?
If an EP application is rejected, the employer or employment agent can appeal the decision within three months, provided they can address the reasons for rejection as outlined in the rejection advisory. It’s crucial to ensure that any appeal addresses the specific issues cited by the Ministry of Manpower (MOM).
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