MOM Compliance For Employment Pass Application Services In Singapore
The Employment Pass (EP) in Singapore allows foreign professionals to work in the country’s key industries and contribute to its economy. The Employment Pass (EP) application process, regulated by the Ministry of Manpower (MOM), requires careful attention to eligibility criteria, documentation, and compliance with current policies, including the COMPASS framework and updated salary requirements.
As a MOM-licensed employment agency in Singapore providing work pass services, we assist employers and applicants with EP applications, renewals, and compliance support. Our team provides structured guidance throughout the process, from documentation preparation to submission and follow-up with MOM.
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
Trusted Employment Pass Application Support
We assist employers and foreign business owners with Employment Pass applications through the official Ministry of Manpower (MOM) portal. Our support includes documentation preparation, regulatory compliance guidance, and structured assistance throughout the application process.
Our Client Portfolio
Singapore Employment Pass Application Guide (2026)
This guide provides an overview of the Singapore Employment Pass, including eligibility requirements, the COMPASS framework, application process, and key information to support a smooth and compliant application.
Singapore Employment Pass Eligibility and Requirements
Salary Requirements
- 2026 (Current): Minimum fixed monthly salary is S$5,600 (general sectors) and S$6,200 (financial services).
- 2027 (Upcoming): From January 2027, thresholds will increase to S$6,000 (general sectors) and S$6,600 (financial services).
Employers are encouraged to plan hiring budgets in advance to align with upcoming salary adjustments.
COMPASS Framework Updates (Effective 1 Jan 2026)
- Qualification Criterion (C2): Updated list of recognised institutions under the “Top-Tier Institutions” category
- Shortage Occupation List (C5): Certain roles such as Cyber Risk Specialist and Product Manager (Digital) have been removed, while new roles in healthcare and green economy sectors have been added
- Qualification Verification: All declared qualifications must be verified by MOM-approved verification agencies. Some distance-learning qualifications may be subject to additional assessment under COMPASS criteria
General Employment Pass Eligibility Criteria
- Salary Requirement: Minimum salary depends on sector and applicant profile, with higher thresholds for senior and financial services roles
- Qualifications: A recognised university degree or equivalent professional experience
- Job Role: Must be a managerial, executive, or specialised position
- COMPASS Requirement: Applicants must achieve at least 40 points under the COMPASS framework unless exempted (e.g. high-income threshold applicants above S$22,500)
Employment Pass – The COMPASS Framework
The Two-Stage EP Application Process
Stage 1: Meet the Salary Requirement
- Applicants must meet the minimum fixed monthly salary based on sector and age.
Stage 2: Pass COMPASS (Minimum 40 Points)
- Applicants must score at least 40 points under the COMPASS framework, which evaluates both individual qualifications and employer factors.
How the COMPASS Framework Works
COMPASS (Complementarity Assessment Framework) is a points-based system introduced by the Ministry of Manpower (MOM) to assess Employment Pass applications in Singapore.
It evaluates candidates across:
- 4 core criteria (C1–C4)
- 2 bonus criteria (C5–C6)
An application must achieve at least 40 points to pass.
COMPASS Criteria Overview
Core Criteria (C1–C4)
- C1: Salary
- C2: Qualifications
- C3: Workforce Diversity
- C4: Local Employment Support
Bonus Criteria (C5–C6)
- C5: Shortage Occupation List (SOL)
- C6: Strategic Economic Priorities (SEP)
COMPASS Criteria Breakdown
C1: Salary (Individual Factor)
Salary is benchmarked against local PMETs in the same sector and age group.
- 20 points: ≥ 90th percentile
- 10 points: 65th–89th percentile
- 0 points: below 65th percentile
Salary Requirement
- General sectors: from S$5,600/month
- Financial services: from S$6,200/month
- Higher thresholds apply with age
C2: Qualifications (Individual Factor)
- 20 points: Degree from top-tier institutions (e.g. globally ranked universities, Singapore autonomous universities)
- 10 points: Degree-equivalent qualification
- 0 points: Below degree level
Requirement
- All qualifications must be verified by a MOM-approved verification agency.
C3: Workforce Diversity (Firm Factor)
Based on nationality representation within the company’s PMET workforce:
- 20 points: <5% of same nationality
- 10 points: 5%–<25%
- 0 points: ≥25%
Small firms (fewer than 25 PMETs) automatically receive 10 points.
C4: Support for Local Employment (Firm Factor)
Based on the proportion of local PMET employees in the firm:
- 20 points: Above 50th percentile
- 10 points: 20th–49th percentile
- 0 points: Below 20th percentile
Small firms (fewer than 25 PMETs) automatically receive 10 points.
COMPASS Bonus Criteria
C5: Shortage Occupation List (Up to +20 Points)
Jobs listed under Singapore’s Shortage Occupation List (SOL) may receive bonus points.
- +20 points: nationality share < 1/3
- +10 points: nationality share ≥ 1/3
C6: Strategic Economic Priorities (+10 Points)
Awarded to companies participating in government-recognised initiatives that support:
- innovation
- internationalisation
- economic development
Key 2026 Considerations
- PMET definition: Employees earning ≥ S$3,300/month
- Salary benchmarks and scoring thresholds are reviewed annually
- COMPASS applies to both new applications and renewals
COMPASS Exemptions
Applicants may be exempt if they meet any of the following:
- Earn a fixed monthly salary of S$22,500 or above
- Are intra-corporate transferees (ICT)
- Are applying for short-term roles (≤ 1 month)
Summary of COMPASS Requirement
- Minimum passing score: 40 points
- Formula: C1 + C2 + C3 + C4 + C5 + C6 (bonus where applicable)
Verification Requirements for Qualifications
Critical Update: Mandatory Qualification Verification
As part of the Ministry of Manpower (MOM) requirements, verification of declared academic qualifications is mandatory for Employment Pass (EP) applications where COMPASS Criterion C2 points are claimed.
What Needs to Be Verified?
All post-secondary qualifications used in the EP application must be verified, including:
- Bachelor’s degrees
- Master’s degrees
- Doctoral degrees (PhD)
- Equivalent professional qualifications
Verification must be completed through MOM-approved third-party verification agencies.
Accepted vs Non-Accepted Proof
Accepted documents:
- Verification reports from MOM-approved background screening agencies
- Official institutional or government verification systems
- OpenCerts digital certificates (where applicable)
Not accepted:
- Notarised copies of certificates
- Unverified school letters
- Screenshots from online portals
- Self-declared or unverified documents
Recommended Timeline for Verification
Verification may take 2 to 4 weeks or longer, depending on the issuing institution.
We recommend:
- Starting verification at least 4 weeks before application submission
- Completing all checks before EP application submission
Delayed or incomplete verification may result in:
- Processing delays
- Request for additional documents
- Potential rejection or loss of COMPASS C2 points
How We Can Assist
We assist employers and applicants in navigating the qualification verification process by:
- Advising on MOM-approved verification channels
- Coordinating with accredited agencies
- Ensuring documentation meets COMPASS C2 requirements
This helps ensure the Employment Pass application is complete, compliant, and ready for submission.
Employment Pass Requirements for Employers in Singapore
Beyond the applicant’s individual qualifications, employers play a key role in the Employment Pass (EP) application process.
Company Legitimacy
Employers must be:
- Registered with the Accounting and Corporate Regulatory Authority (ACRA)
- Actively operating with genuine business activities
- Financially viable to support the hiring of foreign professionals
Fair Consideration Framework (FCF)
Most Employment Pass applications require employers to comply with the Fair Consideration Framework (FCF).
This includes:
- Advertising the job on the MyCareersFuture portal for at least 14 days
- Demonstrating fair consideration of local candidates before hiring foreign professionals
Exemptions apply for:
- Jobs with fixed monthly salaries of S$22,500 and above
- Companies with fewer than 10 employees
- Intra-corporate transferees (ICT)
- Roles lasting one month or less
Workforce Diversity and Local Employment
Employers are also assessed under the COMPASS framework based on:
- C3: Workforce diversity within the company
- C4: Support for local employment
These factors evaluate how balanced the company’s workforce is between local and foreign employees.
The Employment Pass Application Process
Step-by-Step Guide
The Employment Pass (EP) application process is regulated by the Ministry of Manpower (MOM) and requires careful preparation of eligibility, documents, and compliance with the COMPASS framework.
Below is a simplified step-by-step overview of the EP application process in Singapore.
Step 1: Eligibility Assessment & Pre-Application
We begin by assessing whether the applicant meets MOM’s current Employment Pass requirements, including:
- Minimum qualifying salary (based on MOM benchmarks)
- COMPASS framework suitability score
- Job role relevance and employer profile
We also provide strategic guidance to improve COMPASS scoring where applicable before submission.
Step 2: Document Preparation & Review
A complete and accurate document set is essential for MOM approval.
Required documents typically include:
- Passport biodata page
- Educational certificates
- Employment history and reference letters
- Job offer or employment contract
All documents are carefully reviewed to ensure accuracy and consistency to reduce rejection risk.
We also assist with mandatory qualification verification where required under MOM rules.
Step 3: Fair Consideration Framework (FCF) Compliance (If Applicable)
Employers must comply with MOM’s Fair Consideration Framework (FCF), which may include:
- Job advertisement on MyCareersFuture for at least 14 consecutive days
- Fair consideration of local applicants
Exemptions may apply depending on:
- Salary level
- Company size
- Job role type
- Applicant category
Step 4: EP Online Submission & MOM Fees
The application is submitted via MOM’s EP Online system by the employer or authorised agent.
This includes:
- Completion of application details
- Upload of supporting documents
- Submission through MOM portal
MOM Costs:
- Application fee: S$105 (non-refundable)
We also monitor application progress and respond to any MOM requests for additional documents or clarification.
Step 5: In-Principle Approval (IPA)
If the application is approved, MOM issues an In-Principle Approval (IPA) letter.
The IPA is typically valid for 6 months and allows the applicant to:
- Enter Singapore (if overseas)
- Proceed with Employment Pass issuance
- Complete required medical checks (if applicable)
Step 6: Pass Issuance & MOM Fees
After IPA approval and arrival in Singapore, the Employment Pass is issued through MOM.
Issuance Cost
- EP issuance fee: S$225
Multiple Journey Visa (MJV)
- S$30 (if applicable)
Step 7: Biometrics Registration
Certain applicants will need to attend an appointment at the MOM Services Centre to:
- Register fingerprints
- Take a photograph for the EP card
This step is usually required for first-time applicants or those whose previous biometric records have expired.
Applicants must bring:
- Original passport
- IPA letter
- Appointment confirmation (if applicable)
- Supporting documents requested by MOM
Step 8: EP Card Delivery
After successful issuance and verification, the physical Employment Pass card is delivered to the registered Singapore address within a few working days.
The EP card serves as official proof of work authorisation in Singapore.
Overcoming Common EP Application Challenges
Employment Pass applications may face several common challenges. Below are the key issues and how they are typically addressed.
Insufficient Salary Levels
If the offered salary is close to the minimum requirement, applications may face difficulties.
Support includes:
- Reviewing MOM salary benchmarks
- Advising on competitive salary positioning
- Strengthening overall application justification
Qualification or Verification Issues
Issues may arise if qualifications are unclear or not properly verified.
Support includes:
- Guidance on mandatory qualification verification
- Ensuring documents meet MOM requirements
- Presenting academic credentials in the correct format
Weak COMPASS Score
A low COMPASS score may affect approval chances.
Support includes:
- Identifying weak scoring areas
- Reviewing C1–C6 criteria
- Providing improvement strategies before submission
Incomplete or Incorrect Documentation
Missing or incorrect documents are a common cause of delays or rejection.
Support includes:
- Detailed document checklist
- Pre-submission review
- Accuracy and compliance checks
Fair Consideration Framework (FCF) Compliance
Non-compliance with FCF requirements may lead to rejection.
Support includes:
- Guidance on job advertising requirements
- Ensuring MyCareersFuture compliance
- Advising on exemption eligibility
Application Rejection and Appeals
If an application is rejected, further action may be required.
Support includes:
- Reviewing MOM rejection feedback
- Identifying possible gaps
- Preparing a structured appeal strategy
Maximize Your Chances of Employment Pass Approval
To improve the success rate of an Employment Pass application in Singapore, both employers and applicants should carefully prepare the key areas assessed by the Ministry of Manpower (MOM).
Ensure a Competitive Salary
A competitive salary strengthens the Employment Pass application and improves the COMPASS C1 score.
Applicants should:
- Align salary with industry benchmarks
- Meet MOM minimum salary requirements
- Consider updated thresholds under the COMPASS framework
Provide Complete and Accurate Documentation
Incomplete or incorrect documents are a common reason for delays or rejection.
Best practices include:
- Submitting all required documents in full
- Ensuring consistency across all information
- Following MOM documentation guidelines carefully
Highlight Relevant Skills and Experience
Applications should clearly demonstrate:
- Relevant professional experience
- Skills aligned with the job role in Singapore
- Contributions to industry demand, including shortage occupations where applicable (COMPASS C5)
Employer Strength and Compliance
Employer profile plays an important role in EP approval.
Key factors include:
- Company registration and legitimacy (ACRA compliance)
- Financial stability and genuine business activity
- Workforce composition, including local employment support (C3 & C4)
Professional Application Support (Optional)
Given the complexity of MOM requirements and the COMPASS framework, many employers seek professional assistance to ensure compliance and completeness throughout the application process.
What if Your EP Application is Rejected?
If an Employment Pass (EP) application is rejected, the Ministry of Manpower (MOM) will usually issue a rejection advisory outlining the reasons for the decision. In most cases, employers have up to three months to submit an appeal.
Understanding the Rejection
The first step is to carefully review the MOM rejection advisory to identify the key reasons for refusal.
Common issues may include:
- Salary not meeting expectations
- Insufficient qualifications or verification issues
- Weak COMPASS score
- Incomplete or inconsistent documentation
- Employer compliance concerns (e.g. FCF-related issues)
Preparing a Strong Appeal
A successful appeal must include new and relevant supporting information, not a repeated submission.
Key improvements may include:
- Updated or additional supporting documents
- Clarification letters for job scope or experience
- Strengthened company profile or business justification
- Revised salary or role alignment (if applicable)
Addressing MOM Concerns
Each appeal should directly respond to the reasons stated in the rejection advisory.
This may involve:
- Strengthening COMPASS-related areas
- Improving documentation completeness
- Demonstrating employer compliance with Fair Consideration Framework (FCF) requirements
- Providing clearer justification of the candidate’s role and value to Singapore
Appeal Submission Process
Only the employer or an authorised representative (such as a licensed employment agency) may submit or manage the appeal via the EP eService system.
The appeal process includes:
- Submission of supporting documents
- Updated application justification
- Monitoring of application status through MOM channels
Conclusion
A rejected EP application does not necessarily mean a permanent refusal. A well-prepared appeal that directly addresses MOM’s concerns can improve the chances of approval in subsequent review.
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 Employment Pass (EP) holders who wish to bring their family to Singapore, the Ministry of Manpower (MOM) offers two main options:
Dependant Pass (DP)
The Dependant Pass allows eligible family members of EP holders to live in Singapore.
It is typically issued to:
- Legally married spouse
- Unmarried children under 21 years old
Eligibility depends on the EP holder meeting the required salary threshold set by MOM.
Long Term Visit Pass (LTVP)
The Long Term Visit Pass is designed for other eligible family members who do not qualify for a Dependant Pass.
This may include:
- Common-law spouse
- Step-children
- Parents
- Other family members (subject to MOM approval)
Each application is assessed by MOM on a case-by-case basis, and document requirements may vary depending on the relationship type.
Which Work Pass is Right for You?
Employment Pass (EP)
The Employment Pass is designed for:
- Foreign professionals
- Managers
- Executives
S Pass
The S Pass is for mid-skilled foreign employees working in Singapore.
- Learn more about S Pass Application
Work Permit
The Work Permit is for semi-skilled or unskilled workers in approved sectors.
- View Work Permit requirements in Singapore
Why Choose WorkPass for Your Employment Pass Application?
As a MOM-licensed employment agency in Singapore, WORKPASS PTE LTD provides structured support for Employment Pass applications with a focus on compliance, accuracy, and efficiency.
Deep Expertise & Regulatory Updates
Our team stays updated with the latest Ministry of Manpower (MOM) regulations, including:
- 2026 Employment Pass salary adjustments
- COMPASS framework requirements
- Policy changes affecting eligibility and renewals
This ensures applications are prepared in line with current requirements.
COMPASS Application Strategy
We provide guidance on the COMPASS framework by:
- Reviewing potential scoring areas
- Identifying gaps in C1–C6 criteria
- Advising on how to improve overall application strength
Streamlined Application Process
We support employers and applicants through:
- Document preparation and review
- Compliance checks
- EP Online submission support
This helps reduce errors, delays, and administrative workload.
Clear Communication Throughout the Process
Clients are kept informed at every stage of the application process, with timely updates and responses to MOM-related queries.
Proven Application Support Experience
We have supported a wide range of Employment Pass applications across different industries, with a focus on compliance-driven submission quality.
End-to-End Support Services
Our support includes:
- Initial consultation
- Employment Pass application submission
- Renewal assistance
- Dependant Pass and Long Term Visit Pass guidance
Employment Pass Application FAQ
The Employment Pass is a work visa for foreign professionals, managers, and executives working in Singapore, subject to approval by the Ministry of Manpower (MOM).
An employer or MOM-licensed employment agency must apply on behalf of the candidate. The applicant must meet MOM eligibility requirements.
The minimum qualifying salary is at least S$5,600 (or higher for financial services) and increases with age, experience, and qualifications, subject to MOM assessment.
COMPASS is MOM’s points-based framework used to assess Employment Pass applications based on salary, qualifications, diversity, and local workforce considerations.
Processing usually takes around 10 working days, depending on MOM assessment and completeness of documents.
Common documents include passport details, employment contract, educational certificates, and company information.
The IPA letter is MOM’s pre-approval allowing the candidate to enter Singapore and proceed with Employment Pass issuance.
Yes. The IPA letter allows the candidate to enter Singapore for medical checks and pass issuance procedures.
No. Employment Pass applications are not subject to foreign worker quota or levy requirements.
Yes. Applicants are generally expected to hold a recognised degree or possess relevant professional experience suitable for the job role.
Yes. Eligible EP holders may apply for Dependant’s Pass or Long-Term Visit Pass for family members, subject to MOM requirements.
Yes. A new Employment Pass application must be submitted by the new employer before the candidate can start work.
Yes. EP holders may apply for PR, but approval is subject to ICA assessment and eligibility criteria.
Typically up to 2 years for first-time applicants and up to 3 years for renewals, subject to MOM approval.
Employers may review MOM’s rejection reasons and reapply after addressing eligibility or documentation issues.
Employment Pass holders can work in most industries, provided the job meets MOM eligibility requirements.
A new application must be submitted if switching to another pass type, subject to MOM approval.
Let’s Get Started!
Navigating the Singapore Employment Pass application requires careful attention to MOM requirements, including the COMPASS framework and updated salary criteria.
With structured guidance and proper preparation, the application process can be managed more efficiently and accurately.
For support with your Employment Pass application, feel free to contact us to discuss your requirements.