Employment Pass Application Services
WORKPASS PTE LTD provides professional Employment Pass (EP) application services in Singapore for employers hiring eligible foreign professionals, managers, executives and specialists.
We assist employers throughout the application process, including eligibility assessment, salary assessment, COMPASS review, document preparation, MyCareersFuture job advertisement where required, MOM submission, application monitoring, In-Principle Approval (IPA), pass issuance, renewal and appeal assistance.
As a licensed Singapore employment agency, we provide practical guidance based on the candidate’s profile and the employer’s company and workforce information.
Employment Pass Application Fee
- Complimentary preliminary EP assessment before engagement
- Review of candidate’s age, salary, job role, qualifications and experience
- EP qualifying salary and COMPASS assessment
- Inclusive of MOM Employment Pass application fee of S$105 and issuance fee of S$225
- Inclusive of S$30 Multiple Journey Visa (MJV), if applicable
- Review of employer profile and workforce information
- MyCareersFuture job advertisement assistance, where required
- Qualification verification guidance
- Document preparation and MOM application submission
- Application monitoring and liaison with MOM, where required
- Assistance with additional document requests
- IPA and pass issuance assistance
- Card registration and delivery coordination, where required
- Appeal assistance in the event of rejection
Our Client Portfolio
We support Singapore employers and businesses with Employment Pass applications, providing practical, reliable guidance from eligibility assessment and document preparation through application submission.
Employment Pass (EP) Guide 2026
This comprehensive guide explains the Employment Pass (EP), including eligibility requirements, qualifying salary, COMPASS framework, qualification verification, employer requirements, application procedures, renewal, appeal process, and frequently asked questions based on the latest Ministry of Manpower (MOM) requirements.
Employment Pass Requirements at a Glance
| Requirement | Current 2026 information |
|---|---|
| Intended applicants | Foreign professionals, managers, executives and specialists |
| Who applies? | Singapore employer or appointed employment agent |
| Minimum qualifying salary | From S$5,600/month |
| Financial Services minimum | From S$6,200/month |
| Salary increases with age | Yes |
| Highest standard benchmark (non-Financial Services) | Up to S$10,700/month at age 45 and above |
| Financial Services at age 45 and above | Up to S$11,800/month |
| COMPASS | Generally required |
| COMPASS passing score | 40 points |
| COMPASS salary exemption | Fixed monthly salary of S$22,500 or above |
| Foreign worker quota | No |
| Foreign worker levy | No |
| MyCareersFuture advertisement | Generally required unless exempted |
| Advertisement period | At least 14 consecutive days |
| MOM application fee | S$105 |
| MOM issuance fee | S$225 |
| Multiple Journey Visa | S$30, if applicable |
| Processing time | Within 10 business days for most applications |
| First EP validity | Up to 2 years |
| Renewal validity | Up to 3 years |
The Employment Pass qualifying salary increases progressively with age. Financial Services has a higher qualifying salary requirement.
Meeting the minimum salary requirement does not automatically guarantee approval. MOM assesses the candidate’s overall profile and the employer’s circumstances.
What Is an Employment Pass?
The Employment Pass is a Singapore work pass for eligible foreign professionals, managers, executives and specialists who have a job offer from a Singapore employer.
Unlike the S Pass and Work Permit, an Employment Pass is not subject to a foreign worker quota or monthly foreign worker levy.
However, the candidate must meet the applicable qualifying salary and other MOM requirements. Most applications must also satisfy the COMPASS framework unless an exemption applies.
Employment Pass Salary Requirements in 2026
For new Employment Pass applications submitted in 2026, the minimum qualifying salary starts at:
All sectors except Financial Services: S$5,600 per month
The required salary increases progressively with age, reaching up to S$10,700 per month for candidates aged 45 and above.
Financial Services: S$6,200 per month
The required salary increases progressively with age, reaching up to S$11,800 per month for candidates aged 45 and above.
The applicable salary depends on the candidate’s age and the employer’s sector. It must be assessed against the relevant MOM salary benchmark.
EP Qualifying Salary vs COMPASS Salary
The EP qualifying salary and COMPASS C1 salary criterion are separate requirements.
The EP qualifying salary is the initial salary requirement for an Employment Pass application. COMPASS C1 assesses the candidate’s salary against local PMET salary benchmarks.
An applicant must first meet the applicable EP qualifying salary. The application must then satisfy COMPASS unless exempted.
Employment Pass Salary Changes from 1 January 2027
Employers planning future EP applications should take note of the scheduled salary increases from 1 January 2027.
| Sector | Current 2026 minimum | From 1 January 2027 |
|---|---|---|
| All sectors except Financial Services | S$5,600 | S$6,000 |
| Financial Services | S$6,200 | S$6,600 |
The qualifying salary will continue to increase progressively with age.
For candidates aged 45 and above, the 2027 qualifying salary will reach up to:
- S$11,500 for sectors excluding Financial Services
- S$12,700 for Financial Services
The 2027 salary changes also apply to EP renewals for passes expiring from 1 January 2028.
Employers should assess upcoming applications and renewals against the applicable salary requirements.
What Is COMPASS for Employment Pass Applications?
The Complementarity Assessment Framework (COMPASS) is MOM’s points-based assessment framework for most Employment Pass applications.
It considers both the candidate’s individual profile and the employer’s workforce profile.
Unless exempted, an EP application must score at least 40 points under COMPASS. The candidate must first meet the applicable EP qualifying salary.
COMPASS consists of four core criteria:
| Criterion | Assessment area |
|---|---|
| C1 | Salary |
| C2 | Qualifications |
| C3 | Diversity |
| C4 | Support for Local Employment |
Two additional bonus criteria may also provide points where applicable:
- C5 – Skills Bonus
- C6 – Strategic Economic Priorities Bonus
The assessment is therefore not based on salary alone. MOM considers the candidate’s salary and qualifications together with the employer’s workforce composition and applicable bonus criteria.
Who Is Exempt from COMPASS?
Certain Employment Pass applications are exempt from COMPASS.
Examples include candidates who:
- Earn a fixed monthly salary of S$22,500 or above
- Qualify under the applicable Intra-Corporate Transferee (ICT) exemption
- Are filling a role for one month or less
A COMPASS exemption does not remove the other applicable Employment Pass requirements. The candidate must still meet the relevant qualifying salary and MOM conditions.
MyCareersFuture Job Advertisement Requirements
Most employers must advertise the vacancy on MyCareersFuture before submitting an Employment Pass application.
The advertisement generally must remain open for at least 14 consecutive days. During this period, employers must fairly consider applicants.
The advertisement should accurately reflect the actual vacancy, including:
- Job title and responsibilities
- Job requirements
- Salary range
- Number of vacancies
- Hiring employer
The advertised position must correspond with the Employment Pass application. The maximum salary in the advertised salary range cannot exceed twice the minimum salary.
MyCareersFuture Advertisement Exemptions
An employer may be exempt from the advertising requirement if the applicable conditions are met.
Examples include:
- The company has fewer than 10 employees
- The fixed monthly salary for the vacancy is S$22,500 or above
- The role is short-term, lasting one month or less
- The role is filled by an eligible local transferee
- Certain eligible overseas intra-corporate transferee situations
Even where an exemption applies, employers must continue to practise fair hiring.
WORKPASS Assistance
Where an advertisement is required, WORKPASS can assist employers with the MyCareersFuture 14-day job advertisement process as part of our Employment Pass application support.
Employment Pass Qualification Verification
MOM may require verification of a candidate’s academic or professional qualifications, particularly where qualification points are claimed under COMPASS.
Qualifications may include:
- Bachelor’s degree
- Master’s degree
- PhD
- Recognised professional qualifications
The qualification must be genuine and meet the applicable MOM recognition requirements.
For qualifications obtained from private education institutions, the awarding institution and qualification may need to meet international recognition or relevant sector-agency requirements.
WORKPASS can review the candidate’s certificates before submission and advise whether qualification verification may be required.
How to Apply for an Employment Pass
The Employment Pass application process involves several stages.
Step 1 – Candidate and Employer Assessment
We review the candidate’s age, fixed monthly salary, sector, job title, job responsibilities, qualifications, experience and preliminary COMPASS position.
We also review the employer’s business profile and relevant workforce information. This helps identify potential issues before submission.
Step 2 – MyCareersFuture Advertisement
Where required, the employer must advertise the vacancy on MyCareersFuture for at least 14 consecutive days.
WORKPASS can assist with the advertisement process where required.
Step 3 – Document Preparation
We review the candidate’s passport, educational certificates, employment details and relevant company information to ensure that the documents and declared details are consistent and complete.
Step 4 – Qualification Verification
Where applicable, qualification verification is arranged or the relevant supporting documents are prepared.
Step 5 – Employment Pass Application Submission
The employer or appointed employment agent submits the application through MOM’s Employment Pass eService.
The candidate does not need to be physically present in Singapore when the EP application is submitted.
The MOM application fee is S$105
Step 6 – MOM Assessment
MOM assesses the application based on the applicable requirements, including salary, job role, qualifications, COMPASS, employer profile and supporting information.
MOM may request additional information or documents during processing.
Step 7 – In-Principle Approval (IPA)
If the application is approved, MOM issues an In-Principle Approval (IPA) letter.
The IPA contains important instructions for the employer and candidate before the Employment Pass is issued. The employer and candidate should follow the IPA instructions and applicable entry and issuance requirements.
Step 8 – Employment Pass Issuance
After the candidate is in Singapore and the issuance requirements are met, the employer or appointed employment agent can proceed with pass issuance.
The MOM issuance fee is S$225, plus S$30 for the Multiple Journey Visa if applicable.
Step 9 – Card Registration and Delivery
Where required, the candidate must complete fingerprint and photograph registration.
The candidate can also set up the digital work pass through the SGWorkPass app. After registration, the Employment Pass card delivery can be coordinated.
Employment Pass Application Processing Time
MOM states that most Employment Pass applications are processed or given an update within 10 business days.
Some applications may take longer if MOM requires:
- Additional supporting documents
- Qualification verification
- Further assessment
- Clarification from the employer
- Other relevant information
WORKPASS monitors the application status and assists the employer in responding to MOM requests where required.
Processing time is subject to MOM’s assessment.
Employment Pass Validity and Duration
A first-time Employment Pass is generally issued for up to 2 years.
Subsequent renewals may be granted for up to 3 years, subject to continued eligibility and MOM approval.
Eligible experienced technology professionals with skills in shortage may qualify for a longer Employment Pass duration of up to 5 years, subject to the applicable requirements.
An EP renewal is assessed based on the prevailing MOM requirements at the time of renewal. Employers should review the candidate’s salary, role and other eligibility conditions before the pass expires.
Employment Pass Rejection and Appeal
An Employment Pass application may be rejected if MOM determines that the candidate or employer does not meet the applicable requirements.
If an application is unsuccessful, the employer may consider submitting an appeal where appropriate.
An appeal should address the specific concerns raised by MOM and provide relevant supporting information.
WORKPASS can assist with:
- Reviewing the rejection reason
- Identifying potential eligibility or documentation issues
- Reviewing the candidate’s qualifications, experience and salary
- Reviewing job responsibilities and employer information
- Preparing additional supporting documents
- Preparing and submitting the appeal to MOM
An appeal does not guarantee approval. The final decision rests with MOM.
Can Employment Pass Holders Bring Their Family?
Eligible Employment Pass holders may apply for family passes if they meet the applicable requirements.
An EP holder generally needs to earn at least S$6,000 in fixed monthly salary to sponsor eligible family members.
Dependant’s Pass
Eligible family members include:
- Legally married spouse
- Unmarried children under 21 years old, including legally adopted children
Dependant’s Pass Application Services
Long-Term Visit Pass
Eligible family members may include:
- Common-law spouse
- Unmarried stepchildren under 21 years old
- Unmarried handicapped children aged 21 and above
- Parents, where the EP holder earns at least S$12,000 in fixed monthly salary
Each family member requires a separate application and must satisfy the applicable MOM requirements.
Other Work Pass Services
WORKPASS also assists employers with S Pass and Work Permit applications.
Why Choose WORKPASS for Employment Pass Application Assistance?
WORKPASS PTE LTD is a licensed Singapore employment agency providing professional Employment Pass application assistance to employers.
We assist with eligibility and salary assessment, COMPASS review, qualification verification guidance, MyCareersFuture advertisement assistance where required, document preparation, MOM submission, application monitoring, IPA, issuance and appeal assistance.
Our approach is to review the candidate’s profile and the employer’s circumstances before proceeding, helping employers understand the applicable requirements and documentation.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
An Employment Pass is a Singapore work pass for eligible foreign professionals, managers, executives and specialists who have a job offer from a Singapore employer and meet MOM’s requirements.
For new EP applications in 2026, the minimum qualifying salary starts at S$5,600 per month for all sectors except Financial Services and S$6,200 per month for Financial Services. The required salary increases progressively with age.
Yes. From 1 January 2027, the minimum qualifying salary for new applications increases to S$6,000 for sectors excluding Financial Services and S$6,600 for Financial Services. Higher age-adjusted salary requirements will also apply.
A company director may apply for an Employment Pass if the candidate and employing company meet the applicable MOM requirements. Approval is subject to MOM’s assessment of the role, salary, company profile and other relevant factors.
COMPASS is MOM’s points-based assessment framework for most EP applications. An application generally needs at least 40 points unless the candidate qualifies for an exemption.
MOM states that most applications are processed or given an update within 10 business days. Applications requiring additional information or assessment may take longer.
Documents and information may include the candidate’s passport, educational certificates, employment details, job information and relevant company particulars. Additional documents may be required depending on the candidate’s profile and MOM’s assessment.
An IPA is issued by MOM when an Employment Pass application is approved. It contains important instructions for the employer and candidate before the pass can be issued.
No. The Employment Pass is not subject to a foreign worker quota or monthly foreign worker levy.
A candidate without a degree may still be considered if the candidate meets the applicable salary and other MOM requirements. The application must satisfy the relevant assessment criteria, including COMPASS unless exempted.
Eligible EP holders may sponsor qualifying family members for a Dependant’s Pass or Long-Term Visit Pass, subject to the applicable salary and relationship requirements.
An Employment Pass is tied to the employing company. A new employer must submit a new Employment Pass application, and the candidate must meet the applicable MOM requirements before working for the new employer.
Eligible Employment Pass holders may apply for Singapore Permanent Residency through the Immigration & Checkpoints Authority (ICA). PR applications are separate from EP applications and are subject to ICA’s assessment.
A first-time Employment Pass is generally valid for up to 2 years. Renewals may be granted for up to 3 years, subject to MOM approval. Certain eligible experienced technology professionals may qualify for up to 5 years.
The employer may review the rejection reason and consider an appeal if there are relevant grounds and supporting information. An appeal does not guarantee approval.
Companies with fewer than 10 employees are currently exempt from the MyCareersFuture job advertising requirement.
A candidate earning a fixed monthly salary of S$22,500 or above is exempt from COMPASS. The candidate must still meet the other applicable Employment Pass requirements.
The MOM application fee is S$105. If approved, the issuance fee is S$225, plus S$30 for a Multiple Journey Visa if applicable. WORKPASS’s professional service fee is quoted separately.
Apply for an Employment Pass
Planning to hire a foreign professional, manager, executive or specialist in Singapore?
WORKPASS PTE LTD provides professional Employment Pass application assistance, including eligibility assessment, salary assessment, COMPASS review, qualification verification guidance, MyCareersFuture advertisement assistance where required, MOM submission, application monitoring, IPA and pass issuance support.
Before proceeding, we recommend assessing the candidate’s salary, age, job role, qualifications, work experience, COMPASS position and employer profile.
Other Employment Pass matters
Visit our Employment Pass Services page for information on our complete range of Employment Pass services.