Employment Pass (EP)
Written in plain language for general understanding. This is educational content, not legal advice. Based on Singapore Acts of Parliament, subsidiary legislation, and official government guidance.
Singapore National Law
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 should you do?
- 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.
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