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Obtaining your Employment Pass

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This page provides information on the eligibility and approval criteria for the Singapore Employment Pass, which includes details on the application process and timeline. The Singapore Employment Pass is an appropriate work visa for individuals such as managers, executives, specialists and other skilled professionals who wish to work in Singapore

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  • You can apply for an Employment Pass...

    If you meet certain criteria. These criteria include being an entrepreneur, executive, or managing director of a Singapore company who wants to relocate to manage company operations; having a locally incorporated Singapore company and requiring an employee from overseas; or having received an employment offer from a Singapore employer, in which case your employer will submit the EP application on your behalf.

  • Eligibility

    The Ministry of Manpower (MOM) carefully evaluates all applications for Employment Passes on a case-by-case basis. They consider various factors such as the applicant's qualifications, work experience, job responsibilities, economic contribution, employer history, and ability to enhance Singapore's local workforce. To be eligible for an Employment Pass, you must possess one or more of the following: a recognized Diploma/Degree qualification, professional qualifications, specialist skills, or relevant work experience. Sometimes, an applicant without recognized educational qualifications may still be considered for an EP if there are other positive factors supporting their application, such as a good job profile, salary, and work experience, as well as a strong employer history, high company paid-up capital, and significant tax contribution, or possessing valuable skills in emerging industries. However, it's important to note that having recognized educational qualifications does not guarantee approval for an EP application.

  • Salary requirements

    Furthermore, to be eligible for an EP, the applicant must earn a minimum monthly salary of $5,000, while older applicants must earn a salary that matches their work experience and expected quality. Moreover, new applicants for an EP in the financial sector must earn at least $5,500 a month.

  • Timeline

    Most of the applications are done online and take around 3 weeks to process. Note that it can take longer if the relevant officer requires more information or seeks clarification on the application.

  • Jobs Bank Requirement

    To employ Employment Pass Holders, companies are required by the Ministry of Manpower to advertise the job openings on the Singapore Workforce Development Agency's Jobs Bank. Nevertheless, there are exceptions to this rule, including: Jobs in companies with less than 10 employees, Jobs that offer a monthly salary of over $15,000, Intra-corporate transferees, such as senior positions or professionals with advanced expertise and short-term positions lasting less than a month.

  • Once Approved...

    When your application is approved, you will receive an in principle approval letter (IPA). The next step is to issue your pass - for this you will need to be in Singapore. You and your employer will sign a Declaration Form which will be submitted to MOM as part of the pass issuance process. Once completed you will receive a Notification Letter.

What documents do I need to prepare?

For EP Application

  • Copies of educational certificates
  • A copy of the personal particulars page of your passport

For card collection

  • A copy of the Notification Letter
  • Original passport
  • Any other documents requested in the notification letter

Frequently Asked Questions

What if I need an entry visa for Singapore?

If you are overseas and require an entry visa to Singapore, your IPA letter will include a single journey entry visa.

What happens if the application is rejected?

If your Employment Pass (EP) application is declined by the authorities, Incorpnow will investigate the reasons behind the outcome. We will then prepare a strong appeal on your behalf, addressing the issues raised and providing additional documents if required by MOM. The appeal process may take more than three weeks to complete, depending on the complexity of the case. Our fees cover one free appeal if your initial application is unsuccessful.

How do I bring my family members?

All EP holders can apply for Dependant’s Pass and/or Long-Term Visit Pass for their immediate family members if they meet certain conditions. A separate Dependant’s Pass application should be made for every family member. The application can be submitted together with the EP application or separately.

How long is an EP valid for?

This will depend on the MOM officer’s assessment of the application. Typically approvals are granted for between 1-3 years. 

I intend to reside in Singapore, is EP still the right option for me?

As a foreigner you will have to start with an EP. After obtaining an EP in Singapore, there are two choices for a longer-term stay. These options are:

Permanent Residence: Under the Professional, Technical & Skilled Workers (PTS) scheme, Employment Pass holders are eligible to apply for Singapore Permanent Residence. There is no particular waiting time, but six months of salary records are required for the PR application. Therefore, it is recommended for EP holders to wait for at least six months before applying.

Personalised Employment Pass: The Personalised Employment Pass (PEP) is another option available to eligible EP holders and gold collar professionals. The PEP is a unique type of Employment Pass given to exceptional individuals based on their skills and abilities. Since it is not tied to any employer, the holder can change employers without affecting the status of the pass. 

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