Overview
Singapore's work visa system is employer-driven and points-based. But how open Singapore is for you depends on your passport. For example, an Australian passport scores 25/100 — Open, meaning you'll likely qualify without a job offer for certain permits. A Pakistani or Kenyan passport scores 85/100 — Very Restrictive, meaning you'll almost certainly need an employer sponsor and face stricter checks. A lower score means more open. Check Singapore's openness for your passport →
If your score is low (Open), you can consider the Personalised Employment Pass (PEP) or even a job search pass. If your score is high (Restrictive), focus on finding an employer who can sponsor an Employment Pass or S Pass.
Who qualifies
You must have a job offer from a Singapore-registered employer, unless you qualify for the PEP or a work holiday pass. Minimum salary thresholds apply (see table below). Your employer will apply on your behalf for most passes. You must also pass health checks and have no adverse immigration history.
Visa types
| Visa | Who it suits | Minimum salary (S$/month) | Key features |
|---|
| Employment Pass (EP) | Professionals, managers, executives | 5,600 (higher for older applicants) | Points-based COMPASS framework; employer applies; valid up to 2 years, renewable; can bring family after 6 months |
| S Pass | Mid-skilled technicians, associate professionals | 3,300 | Subject to sector quotas and foreign worker levy; employer applies; valid up to 2 years, renewable; limited family privileges |
| Personalised Employment Pass (PEP) | High-earning professionals | 22,500 (or 12,000 for overseas applicants) | Not tied to one employer; can hold multiple concurrent roles; valid 3 years, non-renewable; can start own business |
| Work Holiday Pass (WHP) | Students and graduates from partner countries (e.g., Australia, New Zealand) | No minimum | Up to 6 months; allows casual work; no employer sponsorship needed |
| EntrePass | Entrepreneurs starting a business | NA | Must have a viable business idea; minimum capital of S$50,000; renewable |
Note: Minimum salaries change periodically. Always verify on the Ministry of Manpower Singapore (MOM) - Official Government Immigration Portal.
How to apply
- Find a job: Use job portals like JobStreet, LinkedIn, or recruitment agencies. For EP/S Pass, your employer must advertise the role on MyCareersFuture for at least 14 days (unless exempt).
- Employer applies: Your employer submits the application via MOM's EP Online or S Pass Online system. You cannot apply directly for EP or S Pass.
- Receive In-Principle Approval (IPA): If approved, you get an IPA letter valid for 6 months. You can enter Singapore with this.
- Complete formalities: Within 1 month of arrival, undergo a medical exam (if required) and register biometrics at the MOM Services Centre.
- Collect your pass: Your employer will issue your physical pass card. You can start work once the pass is issued.
For PEP: You can apply directly via MOM's website. For WHP: Apply through your country's designated scheme (e.g., Australian WHP via the Australian Embassy).
Costs & timelines
| Item | Approximate cost (SGD) | Processing time |
|---|
| Employment Pass application | 105–225 (employer pays) | 3–8 weeks |
| S Pass application | 75–105 (employer pays) | 3–8 weeks |
| PEP application | 225 | 4–8 weeks |
| Work Holiday Pass | Free | 2–4 weeks |
| Medical exam | 30–80 | 1–2 days |
| Pass card issuance | 60–120 (employer pays) | 2–3 weeks after IPA |
Fees are subject to change. Check the MOM website for current rates.
Documents you'll need
- Valid passport (minimum 6 months validity)
- Job offer letter and employment contract
- Educational certificates (degree/diploma) — must be from an accredited institution
- Professional qualifications (if any)
- CV / resume
- Recent passport-sized photograph
- Medical examination report (if required)
- Proof of previous employment (for EP/COMPASS points)
- For PEP: payslips, tax assessments, and employer letter confirming salary
All documents not in English must be translated by a certified translator.
Common mistakes
- Applying with an incomplete or inaccurate COMPASS profile (for EP) — ensure your points are correctly calculated.
- Not meeting the minimum salary — MOM checks that the salary is commensurate with experience.
- Submitting fake documents — this leads to a ban.
- Applying for the wrong pass — e.g., an S Pass when you qualify for EP (or vice versa).
- Ignoring quota and levy requirements (for S Pass) — your employer must have quota.
FAQ
Can I change employers while on an EP? Yes, but your new employer must apply for a new EP. You can start working for the new employer only after the new pass is approved.
Can I bring my family? EP holders earning at least S$6,000/month can apply for Dependant's Pass for spouse and children. PEP holders can also bring dependants. S Pass holders earning at least S$6,000 can apply for a Long-Term Visit Pass for their spouse.
How long can I stay after my pass expires? You have 30 days to leave Singapore or switch to another pass.
Is there a path to permanent residence? Yes, EP and S Pass holders can apply for PR after 6 months of working. PEP holders can apply immediately.
Next steps
Your passport's openness score is the key factor. If you have an Open score (like Australia's 25/100), you may qualify for the PEP or Work Holiday Pass without a job offer. If your score is Very Restrictive (like Pakistan or Kenya at 85/100), focus on securing an employer sponsor and ensuring you meet the COMPASS points. Check Singapore's openness for your passport → and then see Singapore visa requirements for your nationality for detailed eligibility. Start your job search early and prepare your documents.