Singapore S Pass Application Services
Navigating the S Pass application process in 2026 requires a deep understanding of the Ministry of Manpower’s (MOM) latest tightening of foreign workforce policies. As the gap between the Employment Pass (EP) and S Pass widens, securing an S Pass has become a high-stakes strategic move for Singapore-based businesses.
At WORKPASS PTE LTD, we understand the complexities of the S Pass Application process. Our team provides end-to-end management, ensuring a seamless and compliant experience for both employers and foreign talent. This guide outlines everything you need to know about the S Pass application, including the latest policy updates.
S Pass Application Fee
- Inclusive of MOM application and issuance cost
- $30 Multiple Journey Visa - If Applicable
- EP Online filing of S 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
Proven Success - S Pass Approved And Issued with Confidence
At WORKPASS PTE LTD, our results speak for themselves. We’ve helped countless clients secure approved and issued S Pass seamlessly through our EA Licence MOM portal — delivering fast, reliable, and compliant outcomes every time.
S Pass Application Singapore 2026: The Comprehensive Employer's Guide
Applying for an S Pass in 2026 requires navigating the most stringent workforce quality rules in Singapore’s history. With the minimum qualifying salary now set at S$3,300 and the S$650 standardized levy in full effect, accuracy is the only way to ensure approval.
The S Pass Application Process: Step-by-Step Guide
- Job Advertisement: Post the role on MyCareersFuture for at least 14 days to satisfy the Fair Consideration Framework.
- Salary Benchmarking: Ensure the offer meets the new 2026 minimum of $3,300 (or $3,800 for Financial Services). Note that requirements increase progressively with age up to $4,800 for candidates in their mid-40s.
- Quota Verification: Check your Dependency Ratio Ceiling (DRC). For most service sectors, the S Pass quota is capped at 10% of your total workforce.
- Self-Assessment Tool (SAT): Use the MOM SAT to get an indicative outcome before paying fees.
- Required Documents: Passport biodata page and the company’s latest ACRA business profile.
- Optional Credentials: While technically optional, declaring relevant diplomas/degrees is recommended to strengthen the case for younger applicants.
- MOM Fees: $105 application fee is required.
- Processing Time: Most online applications are updated within 10 business days.
- In-Principle Approval (IPA): Once approved, the candidate receives an IPA letter. This serves as a pre-entry visa and is usually valid for 60 days.
- Medical Insurance: Before the pass is issued, the employer must buy medical insurance with at least $60,000 annual coverage.
- Request Pass Issuance: $100 issuance fee
- Notification Letter: This allows the candidate to work and travel while waiting for their card.
- Registration: If required, the candidate must visit the MOM Services Centre within one week for fingerprinting and photo registration.
- Card Delivery: The physical S Pass card is typically delivered within 4 to 5 working days after biometrics.
Qualifying Salary Requirements For S Pass
The Ministry of Manpower (MOM) has fully implemented the age-progressive salary scale to ensure S Pass holders are comparable to the top one-third of the local Associate Professional and Technician (APT) workforce.
- Standard Minimum: For new applications, the qualifying salary starts at S$3,300.
- Financial Services: Due to higher wage norms, the minimum for this sector is S$3,800.
- Age-Progressive Scale: Requirements increase with age. A mid-career candidate (age 45+) now requires a salary of up to S$4,800 (or S$5,650 in Finance) to qualify.
- S Pass Renewal Rules: If your employee’s pass expires on or after 1 September 2026, they must meet these new 2026 salary benchmarks to be successful.
Latest S Pass Quota Limits and Levy
Managing your foreign workforce ratio is critical. MOM uses your company’s CPF contribution history to determine your available S Pass quota.
- Services Sector Quota: Your S Pass holders cannot exceed 10% of your total workforce.
- Manufacturing and CMP Sectors: These sectors allow a higher cap of 15%.
- S Pass Levy: As of September 2025, the tiered levy system has been simplified. All employers now pay a flat S$650 monthly levy per S Pass holder, regardless of whether you are in Tier 1 or Tier 2.
- Local Qualifying Salary (LQS): Remember, a local employee only counts toward your quota if they earn at least S$1,600 per month.
Educational Qualifications: Optional vs. Mandatory For S Pass
A common misconception is that all degrees must be verified for an S Pass. In 2026, the rules are nuanced:
- Declaration is Optional: Unlike the Employment Pass (EP), you are not strictly required to declare a qualification for an S Pass if the candidate’s salary and work history are sufficient to pass the Self-Assessment Tool (SAT).
- Strengthening Your Case: While optional, declaring a relevant diploma or degree from an accredited institution can significantly improve approval odds for younger candidates with less experience.
- Verification Requirements: Verification proof is only triggered if the awarding institution is not in the MOM dropdown menu or if the role is in a regulated industry like Healthcare, Law, or Education.
Fair Consideration Framework (FCF) & Compliance
Before we file your S Pass application, your company must fulfill its obligations to the local workforce.
- The 14-Day Rule: You must advertise the job on MyCareersFuture for 14 consecutive days.
- Fair Selection: You must maintain records showing that you fairly considered all local applicants who applied via the portal.
- Medical Insurance: Employers must provide medical insurance with at least S$60,000 in annual coverage.
- Primary Care Plan (PCP): If your worker stays in a dormitory or works in the CMP sector, you must purchase a PCP before the pass can be issued.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
Singapore S Pass
Have more questions about the Singapore S Pass? Find answers to common queries below, or contact WorkPass for personalized assistance to apply S Pass.
For new applications submitted from 1 September 2025, the minimum fixed monthly salary will be S$3,300 (general sectors) or S$3,800 (financial services), increasing progressively with age. These new salaries will apply to renewal applications for passes expiring from 1 September 2026.
Generally, a diploma or degree is required. Relevant technical certificates (at least 1 year of full-time study) and good work experience may also be considered. Mandatory verification of post-secondary diplomas and higher qualifications is required.
MOM typically processes online S Pass applications about 10 business days. However, more complex cases may take longer.
Yes, S Pass holders can apply for a Dependant Pass (DP) for their legally married spouse and unmarried children under 21 years old, provided the S Pass holder earns a minimum fixed monthly salary of S$6,000. Long Term Visit Passes (LTVP) may be applicable for other family members, subject to higher salary thresholds.
The S Pass is subject to a quota (Dependency Ratio Ceiling – DRC). It limits S Pass holders to 10% of a company’s total workforce. If your company exceeds this, you cannot hire more S Pass holders until your local workforce numbers increase or other foreign workers leave.
From 1 September 2025, the S Pass levy rate will be standardized at S$650 per month across all sectors, as the Tier 1 levy increases from S$550 to S$650.
The FCF requires employers to advertise job vacancies on MyCareersFuture for at least 14 days before submitting an S Pass application, to fairly consider local candidates. Exemptions apply for companies with fewer than 10 employees or jobs paying S$22,500 and above.
Yes, in some cases. If an S Pass holder’s salary, qualifications, and role evolve to meet Employment Pass (EP) criteria, they can apply for an EP. S Pass holders may also be eligible to apply for Permanent Residency (PR) after gaining sufficient work experience in Singapore and meeting other PR criteria.
If your S Pass application is rejected, MOM will provide reasons. You usually have 3 months to submit an appeal addressing those reasons with additional supporting documentation or clarification. WorkPass can assist you in preparing a strong appeal.
Let’s Get Started!
Don’t let the complexities of the S Pass application process deter you. WorkPass Pte Ltd is dedicated to providing seamless, expert assistance, ensuring your application is handled efficiently and effectively. Whether you’re a company seeking to hire essential mid-skilled talent or an individual looking to apply S Pass to work in Singapore, we are your trusted partner.
Contact WorkPass Pte Ltd today for a consultation and let us help you secure your S Pass in Singapore.