Employment Pass (EP) in Singapore
Reviewed by the Commoner Law Editorial Team. Sourced from Singapore Acts of Parliament, subsidiary legislation, and official government guidance. Written in plain language for general understanding — this is educational content, not legal advice. Our editorial standards
What is this right?
The Employment Pass (EP) is Singapore's work visa for foreign professionals, managers, and executives:
- Eligibility: Minimum fixed monthly salary of $5,600 (as of September 2023; higher for older, more experienced candidates — up to $10,700 for those in their mid-40s). Must have acceptable qualifications.
- COMPASS framework: From September 2023, EP applications are assessed under the Complementarity Assessment (COMPASS) — a points-based system evaluating salary, qualifications, diversity, and Skills Bonus.
- Duration: Initial EP is valid for up to 2 years; renewals for up to 3 years.
- Employer-tied: The EP is tied to a specific employer. You cannot work for another employer without a new EP application.
- Dependant's Pass: EP holders earning ≥ $6,000/month can bring their spouse and children on a Dependant's Pass.
When does it apply?
- You are a foreign professional offered employment in Singapore by a Singapore-registered company.
- Your employer applies for the EP on your behalf — you cannot apply directly.
What to Do If Your MOM Employment Pass Application Has Been Rejected in Singapore
- Verify the EP is issued before starting work — working without a valid pass is a criminal offence under EFMA.
- Collect your EP card at MOM after receiving the in-principle approval (IPA) letter and entering Singapore.
- If your employment is terminated, you have a Short-Term Visit Pass (STVP) of up to 30 days to find new employment or leave Singapore.
- If you are changing employers, the new employer must submit a fresh EP application.
What should you NOT do?
- Don't work without a valid EP — penalties include fines up to $20,000 and/or imprisonment up to 2 years.
- Don't engage in freelance work or side jobs on an EP — you can only work for the employer stated on the pass (unless you have a Letter of Consent for a second job).
- Don't overstay if your EP is cancelled — overstaying is a criminal offence.
Common Questions
What is the minimum EP salary in Singapore?
S$5,600 per month (since September 2023), rising with age and experience up to S$10,700 for candidates in their mid-40s. From September 2023, EP applications are assessed under the COMPASS framework — a points-based system evaluating salary, qualifications, diversity, and Skills Bonus. The employer applies; you cannot apply directly.
How long is a Singapore Employment Pass valid?
Initial EPs last up to 2 years; renewals up to 3 years. The EP is tied to a specific employer — you cannot work for another employer without a new EP application. If employment ends, you get a Short-Term Visit Pass of up to 30 days to find new work or leave Singapore.
Can I earn S$6,000 and bring family on a Dependant's Pass?
Yes. EP holders earning at least S$6,000 per month can bring their spouse and children on a Dependant's Pass. Working without a valid EP is a criminal offence under EFMA, with penalties up to S$20,000 and up to 2 years' imprisonment. Freelance or side work is not permitted on an EP without a separate Letter of Consent.
When does it apply — employment pass (ep)?
You are a foreign professional offered employment in Singapore by a Singapore-registered company.Your employer applies for the EP on your behalf — you cannot apply directly.
What should I do if MOM has rejected my Singapore Employment Pass application under the COMPASS framework?
Verify the EP is issued before starting work — working without a valid pass is a criminal offence under EFMA.Collect your EP card at MOM after receiving the in-principle approval (IPA) letter and entering Singapore.If your employment is terminated, you have a Short-Term Visit Pass (STVP) of up to 30 days to find new employment or leave Singapore.If you are changing employers, the new employer must submit a fresh EP application.
What should you NOT do — employment pass (ep)?
Don't work without a valid EP — penalties include fines up to $20,000 and/or imprisonment up to 2 years.Don't engage in freelance work or side jobs on an EP — you can only work for the employer stated on the pass (unless you have a Letter of Consent for a second job).Don't overstay if your EP is cancelled — overstaying is a criminal offence.