Singapore Employment Pass (EP) Application Services | 2025 Latest MOM Updates
Securing an Employment Pass (EP) in Singapore is a pivotal step for foreign professionals aiming to work and contribute to the nation’s thriving economy. The Employment Pass Application process, overseen by the Ministry of Manpower (MOM), demands a meticulous approach, a deep understanding of eligibility criteria, and strict adherence to the latest regulations, including the dynamic COMPASS framework and updated salary thresholds for 2025 and 2026.
At WORKPASS PTE LTD, a MOM-licensed employment agency, we specialize in demystifying the complex EP application process. Whether you’re a business looking to hire global talent or an individual seeking to advance your career in Singapore, our expert team provides end-to-end support, ensuring your application is robust, compliant, and optimized for a higher approval rate.
Employment Pass Application Fee
- Inclusive of MOM application and issuance cost
- $30 Multiple Journey Visa - If Applicable
- EP Online filing of Employment Pass Application
- Tracking EP Online filing of application status while under processing
- Liaising with direct MOM officer in charge, if required
- Responding to MOM’s requests for additional information, if any
- Arranging for issuance pass upon in-principle approval (IPA)
- Filing of appeal in case of rejection
Higher Approval Rate, Faster Processing Time!
Your Comprehensive Guide: Singapore Employment Pass Application 2025
This guide provides a detailed overview of the Singapore Employment Pass, covering eligibility, the COMPASS framework, the application process, and crucial tips for a successful outcome. Stay ahead with the latest MOM updates for 2025 and 2026.
Understanding the Singapore Employment Pass (EP): Key Facts & Latest 2025/2026 Updates
The Employment Pass (EP) is Singapore’s primary work visa for foreign professionals, managers, and executives. It’s designed to attract high-calibre international talent who can contribute to Singapore’s economic growth.
Key Updates for 2025 & 2026:
- Increased Minimum Qualifying Salary: Effective January 1, 2025, the minimum fixed monthly salary for new EP applications will be S$5,600 (general sectors) and S$6,200 (financial services sector). These revised thresholds will apply to renewal applications for passes expiring from January 1, 2026. Salary thresholds also increase progressively with age.
- COMPASS Framework Applicability: COMPASS continues to apply to new EP applications from September 1, 2023, and to renewal applications for passes expiring from September 1, 2024.
- Mandatory Qualification Verification: From January 1, 2025, all post-secondary diplomas and higher qualifications declared in EP applications require mandatory verification by an MOM-approved third-party screening agency. More details on this can be found in the “Maximizing Your Chances of Employment Pass Approval” section.
- Part-Time/Distance Learning Degrees (C2): From January 1, 2025, part-time or distance-learning degrees from top-tier institutions will incur a 10-point deduction under the C2 (Qualifications) criterion.
- Shortage Occupation List (SOL) Bonus: The updated SOL takes effect from January 1, 2025, for new and renewal applications.
General Employment Pass Eligibility Criteria:
- Qualifying Salary: You must earn a fixed monthly salary that meets the prevailing EP qualifying salary for your age (S$5,600 for new applications, S$6,200 for financial services, rising with age).
- Qualifications: You must possess acceptable qualifications, usually a university degree, professional qualifications, or specialist skills.
- Professional, Managerial, or Executive Role: The job role must be managerial, executive, or a specialist position.
- COMPASS Score: For new applications, you must achieve at least 40 points on the COMPASS framework.
The COMPASS Framework Explained
The COMPASS (Complementarity Assessment Framework) is a transparent, points-based system that assesses EP applications based on a comprehensive set of individual and firm-related attributes. You need to score a minimum of 40 points to qualify for an EP.
Individual Attributes (up to 40 points):
C1: Salary (up to 20 points): Assesses your fixed monthly salary against the salaries of your peers in Singapore.
- 20 points: Salary at 90th percentile or above for your age.
- 10 points: Salary at 65th to below 90th percentile for your age.
- 0 points: Salary below 65th percentile for your age.
C2: Qualifications (up to 20 points): Recognizes your academic qualifications.
- 20 points: Top-tier university or equivalent (e.g., QS Top 100, Singapore Autonomous Universities).
- 10 points: Degree-equivalent qualification (e.g., other recognized degrees, professional qualifications).
- 0 points: No degree-equivalent qualification.
- Note: From Jan 1, 2025, a 10-point deduction applies for part-time/distance learning degrees from top-tier institutions. All post-secondary qualifications require verification as detailed below.
C5: Skills Bonus (up to 20 points): Awards points for skills in occupations on the official Shortage Occupation List (SOL).
- 20 points: Your role is on the SOL AND your nationality forms less than one-third of the company’s PMETs.
- 10 points: Your role is on the SOL AND your nationality forms one-third or more of the company’s PMETs.
- 0 points: Not on SOL.
- Note: The updated SOL applies from January 1, 2025.
Firm-Related Attributes (up to 20 points):
C3: Diversity Bonus (up to 10 points): Promotes workforce diversity within the company.
- 10 points by default: If your firm employs fewer than 25 PMET employees.
- 10 points: Your nationality forms less than 5% of the company’s EP holders (for firms with 25 or more PMETs).
- 0 points: Your nationality forms 5% or more of the company’s EP holders.
C4: Support for Local Employment (up to 20 points): Measures the firm’s share of local PMEs (Professionals, Managers, and Executives) compared to sector peers.
- 10 points by default: If your firm employs fewer than 25 PMET employees.
- 20 points: Firm’s local PME share is at the 90th percentile or above of industry peers.
- 10 points: Firm’s local PME share is at the 65th to below 90th percentile of industry peers.
- 0 points: Firm’s local PME share is below 65th percentile of industry peers.
C6: Strategic Economic Priorities Bonus (up to 10 points): Awards points for firms engaged in innovation, internationalization, or job creation, supported by the government.
- 10 points: Firm participates in specific government-supported programs or is endorsed by an economic agency/NTUC for transformation activities.
- 0 points: No points.
COMPASS Exemptions:
Candidates are exempted from COMPASS if they meet any of these conditions:
- Have a fixed monthly salary of at least $22,500 (similar to the prevailing Fair Consideration Framework (FCF) job advertising exemption from 1 September 2023)
- Are applying as an overseas intra-corporate transferee
- Are filling the role for 1 month or less
WORKPASS PTE LTD can help you assess your COMPASS score and strategize for a successful application.
Verification Proof Requirements for Qualifications
As part of the Ministry of Manpower’s (MOM) ongoing efforts to ensure the quality and authenticity of foreign talent, mandatory verification of declared qualifications is now a critical step for Employment Pass applications. This is especially relevant if the qualifications contribute points under the COMPASS framework (Criterion C2).
What needs to be verified? All post-secondary diplomas and higher qualifications (e.g., Bachelor’s degrees, Master’s degrees, PhDs) that are declared in your EP application must be verified.
What kind of verification proof is accepted? MOM accepts verification proof from specific, reliable sources:
- MOM-Approved Background Screening Companies: These are third-party agencies that have been vetted and accredited by MOM to conduct authenticity and accreditation checks on educational qualifications. This is the most common and recommended route, especially for qualifications from various countries.
What is NOT accepted as verification proof?
- Educational certificates certified by a notary public.
- Simple school letters.
- Self-translated verification proofs from portals.
- Screenshots/verification proof from sources not verifiable by MOM.
Why is this important? Submitting unverified or improperly verified qualifications can lead to:
- Significant delays in your EP application.
- Rejection of your application.
- Loss of COMPASS points under Criterion C2.
How WORKPASS PTE LTD can assist: We guide our clients on which verification method is most suitable for their qualifications and coordinate with the MOM-approved screening agencies to ensure the verification process is completed smoothly and efficiently, providing the necessary proof for your EP application. This proactive approach ensures your application is robust and compliant from the outset.
Employment Pass Requirements for Employers in Singapore
Beyond the applicant’s individual attributes, employers play a crucial role in the EP application. Key considerations include:
- Company Legitimacy: Your company must be legitimately registered with the Accounting and Corporate Regulatory Authority (ACRA) and demonstrate genuine business activities and financial viability.
- Fair Consideration Framework (FCF): For most EP applications, employers must advertise the job on the MyCareersFuture portal for at least 14 days to fairly consider local candidates. Exemptions apply for roles with fixed monthly salaries of at least S$22,500, companies with fewer than 10 employees, overseas intra-corporate transferees, or roles lasting one month or less.
- Workforce Diversity and Local Core: Employers are assessed on their firm’s diversity (C3) and support for local employment (C4) under the COMPASS framework.
The EP Application Process: A Step-by-Step Guide
Navigating the EP application process can be complex. WORKPASS PTE LTD simplifies it into clear, manageable steps:
1. Eligibility Assessment & Pre-application:
- Our initial consultation helps determine if you/your candidate meet the current MOM criteria, including minimum salary and potential COMPASS score.
- We assist with strategizing to maximize COMPASS points.
2. Document Preparation & Review:
- We provide a comprehensive checklist of required documents (e.g., passport, educational certificates, past employment testimonials, offer letter).
- Meticulous review of all documents for accuracy and completeness. (Note: Missing or incorrect documents are common reasons for rejection).
- Crucially, we guide you through the mandatory qualification verification process; refer to “Verification Proof Requirements” below for details.
3. Job Advertising (if applicable):
- For employers, we guide you on fulfilling FCF requirements, including advertising the job on MyCareersFuture portal for at least 14 days.
4. Online Submission via EP Online:
- You authorize WORKPASS PTE LTD to submit the EP application on your behalf via Employment Agency MOM’s EP Online system.
- We ensure all necessary documents are compiled and the application form is completed accurately.
- Online submission to MOM and payment of the non-refundable application fee.
Application Monitoring & Response:
- We actively track the application status and respond promptly to any MOM requests for additional information or clarification.
5. In-Principle Approval (IPA):
- Once approved, MOM issues an IPA letter, valid for 6 months, allowing the candidate to enter Singapore and complete the EP issuance. It typically includes a pre-approved single-entry visa and outlines any required medical examinations.
6. Pass Issuance & Card Registration:
- Upon arrival in Singapore, we assist with the pass issuance process within the IPA validity.
- If required, we help schedule the EP card registration appointment at the MOM Services Centre.
- The EP card is typically delivered within 5 working days after registration/document verification.
Overcoming Common EP Application Challenges
EP applications can face various challenges. WORKPASS PTE LTD helps you navigate common hurdles such as:
- Insufficient Salary: We advise on competitive salary benchmarks and how to strengthen your application if your salary is borderline.
- Lack of Qualifications/Verification Issues: We guide you on the mandatory verification processes and how to present qualifications effectively.
- Weak COMPASS Score: We identify areas to improve your score and provide strategies for a successful application.
- Incomplete Documentation: Our rigorous checklist and review process minimize errors and omissions.
- FCF Compliance: We ensure employers meet advertising requirements to avoid rejections.
- Appeal Process: In case of rejection, we analyze MOM’s feedback and strategize a compelling appeal.
Maximize Your Chances of Employment Pass Approval
To increase your likelihood of a successful Employment Pass application in Singapore, consider these crucial factors:
- Ensure a Competitive Salary: Negotiate a salary that is competitive within your industry and commensurate with your experience and qualifications. Be sure to check the latest MOM salary requirements, especially considering the 2025/2026 adjustments to the minimum qualifying salaries and COMPASS Criterion C1 (Salary). A higher salary generally strengthens your application.
- Provide Comprehensive and Accurate Documentation: Submit all required documents accurately and completely. Any discrepancies or missing information can lead to significant delays or outright rejection. Follow our detailed guidance on document preparation to avoid any issues.
- Highlight Relevant Skills and Experience: Showcase your skills and experience in a clear and compelling manner, emphasizing their relevance to the job role in Singapore. Articulate how your expertise addresses specific needs within the local market, and, if applicable, how you contribute to skills on the Shortage Occupation List (COMPASS Criterion C5).
- Work with a Reputable Employer: Ensure that your employer is a well-established and financially stable company with a good track record in Singapore. This includes having a healthy local PMET share (COMPASS Criterion C4) and demonstrating a commitment to workforce diversity (COMPASS Criterion C3). For those setting up a business, ensure your company is properly registered, has a sound business plan, and can demonstrate its contribution to Singapore’s economy.
- Seek Professional Assistance: Engage the services of a reputable and experienced WORKPASS PTE LTD to guide you through the complex application process and maximize your chances of success. Our in-depth expertise in MOM’s evolving criteria, including the COMPASS framework, and our personalized service can significantly increase your chances of approval.
What if Your EP Application is Rejected?
If your Employment Pass (EP) application is rejected, MOM will typically provide a rejection advisory outlining the reasons. You generally have three months to appeal the decision.
WorkPass Pte Ltd will guide you through this critical stage:
Understanding the Rejection: We will meticulously analyze the rejection advisory from MOM to pinpoint the exact reasons for the unsuccessful application. This crucial first step ensures that any appeal or reapplication directly addresses the identified shortcomings.
Strategic Appeal Preparation: Don’t just resubmit the same application. A successful appeal requires new, compelling information or evidence that directly addresses MOM’s concerns. WorkPass Pte Ltd will assist you in:
- Gathering new supporting documents: This could include updated educational transcripts, stronger company profiles, detailed business plans highlighting the necessity of your role, or clarification letters for unique industry experience or skills.
- Crafting a persuasive appeal letter: Draft a clear, concise, and compelling appeal letter that directly responds to each point raised in the rejection advisory.
- Highlighting strengths: Emphasize how the candidate’s skills, experience, and qualifications uniquely contribute to Singapore’s economy, especially in areas of talent shortage.
- Demonstrating compliance: If the rejection relates to Fair Consideration Framework (FCF) or other compliance issues, we will advise on how to demonstrate the employer’s commitment to local hiring and fair practices.
- Navigating the Appeal Process: Only the employer or an authorized third party (WorkPass Pte Ltd) who submitted the original application can make enquiries or appeals. We will manage the submission of your appeal through the EP eService and monitor its status diligently.
At WorkPass Pte Ltd, we are committed to maximizing your chances of EP approval, even in the face of initial rejection. Our expertise in MOM’s regulations and our strategic approach to appeals can significantly increase your prospects of a successful outcome.
EP Renewal & Compliance
Renewing an Employment Pass requires meeting the prevailing criteria at the time of renewal. With the COMPASS framework now applying to renewals (for passes expiring from Sep 1, 2024, with new salary benchmarks from Jan 1, 2026), ongoing compliance and strategic planning are vital. WORKPASS PTE LTD can assist with timely Employment Pass Renewals and ensure your firm remains compliant with MOM regulations, including maintaining strong C3 and C4 scores.
Dependant Pass (DP) and Long Term Visit Pass (LTVP)
For EP holders seeking to bring their family to Singapore, MOM offers the Dependant Pass (DP) and the Long Term Visit Pass (LTVP).
Dependant Pass (DP):
- Allows the EP holder’s spouse and unmarried children under 21 years old to reside in Singapore.
- Eligibility depends on the EP holder’s salary meeting a minimum threshold.Requires submission of supporting documents such as marriage and birth certificates.
Long Term Visit Pass (LTVP):
- For common-law spouses, step-children, parents, or other family members.
- Eligibility criteria and required documentation vary.
- MOM assesses each LTVP application on a case-by-case basis.
WORKPASS PTE LTD can provide expert guidance on DP applications and LTVP applications, ensuring a smooth transition for your family.
Employment Pass vs. S Pass vs. Work Permit: Which is Right for You?
Understanding the differences between Singapore’s main work visas is crucial:
- Employment Pass (EP): For foreign professionals, managers, and executives. Requires a minimum qualifying salary (S$5,600/S$6,200 from Jan 1, 2025) and COMPASS assessment.
- S Pass: For mid-skilled foreign employees. Requires a minimum qualifying salary (S$3,300 from Sep 1, 2025, for new applications) and is subject to a quota and levy. Learn more about the Singapore S Pass.
- Work Permit: For semi-skilled or unskilled foreign workers in specific sectors (e.g., construction, manufacturing, marine shipyard). Subject to quota, levy, and source country restrictions. Explore the Singapore Work Permit.
Our consultants can help you determine the most suitable pass for your specific needs or for your prospective employee.
Why Choose WorkPass for Your Employment Pass Application?
As a MOM-licensed employment agency, WORKPASS PTE LTD offers unparalleled expertise and personalized support for your Singapore Employment Pass application:
- Deep Expertise & Latest Updates: Our team is constantly updated on MOM’s latest regulations, including the 2025/2026 EP salary adjustments and intricate COMPASS details, ensuring your application is compliant and optimized.
- COMPASS Strategy: We help assess your COMPASS score and advise on how to maximize your points for a successful application.
- Streamlined Process: We handle the complexities, from document preparation to online submission, saving you time and minimizing stress.
- Proactive Communication: We keep you informed at every stage, addressing queries promptly.
- MOM: Ensures prompt and efficient handling of MOM-related matters.
- Proven Track Record: We have a successful history of securing Employment Pass approvals for professionals and companies.
- Comprehensive Support: From initial consultation to post-approval assistance, renewals, and family pass applications, we are your trusted partner.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Have more questions about the Singapore Employment Pass? Find answers to common queries below, or contact WorkPass for personalized assistance.
The Employment Pass (EP) is Singapore’s primary work visa for foreign professionals, managers, and executives. It allows eligible overseas individuals to work in Singapore and is issued by the Ministry of Manpower (MOM) based on criteria like salary, qualifications, and the COMPASS framework.
Eligibility for an Employment Pass is primarily based on meeting the minimum qualifying salary (currently S$5,600 for general roles, S$6,200 for financial services from Jan 1, 2025, with higher thresholds for older candidates), relevant qualifications (e.g., degree), professional experience, and scoring sufficient points under the COMPASS framework.
The Complementarity Assessment Framework (COMPASS) is a points-based system used by MOM to evaluate EP applications. It assesses candidates based on individual attributes (salary, qualifications) and company attributes (diversity, support for local employment), with additional bonus points for skills in shortage or contributions to strategic economic priorities. A minimum of 40 points is required for approval. This framework applies to new EP applications from September 1, 2023, and renewals of EPs expiring from September 1, 2024 (with new salary benchmarks applying for renewals from January 1, 2026).
Typically, online EP applications submitted via MOM’s EP Online portal take about 10 working days to process for standard cases. However, complex cases or those requiring additional documentation may take longer. Our service aims for an outcome within 10 business days for the initial submission phase.
Essential documents usually include a valid passport copy, educational certificates (degrees, diplomas), professional qualifications, detailed resume/CV, employment offer letter from the Singapore company, and for employers, details of job advertising on MyCareersFuture under the Fair Consideration Framework (FCF). Additional documents may be requested by MOM. From January 1, 2025, all declared qualifications must undergo verification by an MOM-approved third-party screening agency.
Yes, you can appeal an EP rejection. MOM usually provides reasons for the rejection, and you have a limited time (typically 3 months) to submit an appeal. It’s crucial to address the specific reasons for rejection and provide new supporting information. WorkPass can assist in analyzing the rejection and preparing a strong appeal.
Yes, EP holders can apply for passes for their family members.
- Dependant Pass (DP): For legally married spouses and unmarried children under 21 years old.
- Long Term Visit Pass (LTVP): For parents, common-law spouses, and unmarried children with disabilities, subject to specific criteria and the EP holder’s salary level.
EP renewals can typically be done online via MOM’s EP Online portal, usually 6 months before your pass expires. Eligibility for renewal is re-assessed based on current criteria, including COMPASS and the latest salary thresholds (new thresholds apply for renewals expiring from Jan 1, 2026). It’s advisable to apply for renewal well in advance to avoid any lapse in your immigration status. WorkPass provides EP renewal assistance.
Upon approval, you will receive an In-Principle Approval (IPA) letter from MOM. This letter typically allows you to enter Singapore (if overseas), and outlines steps for medical examinations (if required), biometric registration at the MOM building, and finally, collecting your physical Employment Pass card.
WorkPass is an MOM-licensed employment agency with deep expertise in Singapore’s immigration policies. We simplify the complex EP application process, ensuring compliance with all regulations, optimizing your application for approval, and providing end-to-end support to save you time and reduce stress. Our high success rate and personalized service make us a trusted partner.
Let’s Get Started!
Navigating the Singapore Employment Pass application, especially with the intricate COMPASS framework and evolving salary requirements, requires expertise. Partnering with WORKPASS PTE LTD ensures a seamless and successful journey for both professionals and companies seeking to establish a presence in Singapore. Our expertise, up-to-date knowledge of 2025/2026 MOM changes, and dedication to client success make us your ideal partner.
Contact us today to learn how we can assist you in securing your Employment Pass and contributing to Singapore’s vibrant economy.