Employment Pass in Singapore: Everything You Need to Know
If you’re thinking of pursuing a career in Singapore, you might need an Employment Pass to work there. This guide will provide you with all the information you need to get started. Whether you’re an individual looking to expand your career or a business seeking to hire foreign talent, we’ve got you covered. From outlining the basic requirements to breaking down the application process into manageable steps, we’ll guide you every step of the way. With this guide, you’ll be able to submit your Singapore Employment Pass application with ease and confidence. So why wait? Get started with our guide today!
Employment Pass in Singapore Is a Most Common Long-Term Work Visa
The most common long-term visa to Singapore for skilled workers, as well as for working owners and directors of companies, is Employment Pass (EP). Usually it is issued for a period of 1-2 years initially, and then can be extended for 2-3 years at a time (up to 5 years max). Work visa holders can bring family members with them to Singapore.
For entrepreneurs starting new companies in Singapore, there is also the Entrepreneur Pass (EntrePass). This visa is very similar to Singapore EP, but with its own pros and cons. We discuss this visa in the separate article.
Basic Requirements of Singapore EP Application
In order to obtain a Singapore EP, a foreigner must meet the following basic requirements:
- obtain and secure a job offer from an employer in Singapore to provide. In situations where an applicant is the owner of its on company and wishes to work from it, there is still a contract arrangement between the employer and then company, as both are separate legal entities.
- Under the current requirements, the salary of the candidate for the position must be at least S $ 5,000 per month (as of September 2022). In practice, the salary level for successful candidates is usually higher. For example most company directors work for their companies for $ 7,000 per month or more. Financial Positions are also expected to be filled with higher salaries. The current minimum salary for foreign workers in finance is set by MOM at $5,500. Ultimately, much will depend on the type of activity of the company and the position held by the candidate.
- the qualifications and education of the candidate must meet the requirements of his tentative job. If the education credentials do not specifically match the position applied for, the candidate must demonstrate good level of knowledge of the industry and experience in this position.
The Singapore company sponsoring the EP application must operate as a proper business. The main factors for a successful Employment Pass Singapore application are a real, performing company and a qualified candidate. Each case is reviewed individually by the Ministry of Manpower (MOM). Company revenue must cover expenses, including proposed salaries, and align with industry standards. A physical office is required, and hiring local staff is expected. Requirements are not fixed or exhaustive and vary by case. Uniqueness and innovation in business are also valued. Contributions to Singapore’s economy and infrastructure are welcome, as the country seeks business diversification and foreign specialists who create new jobs and technologies. EP approval is likely if most key conditions are met.
What Is the Process for Obtaining an Employment Pass in Singapore?
After the decision of hiring a particular foreign specialist or manager has been made, it is necessary to formalize the application process in a prescribed way. To do this, you must complete the following steps. Most of the time, the company is capable of handling its own EP applications. In certain cases it is advisable to engage a specialized Employment Agency, as they are well versed in these matters.
The application is submitted online through the EP Online system provided by MOM. However, the company must create a work pass account first. It can be dome by the company director or secretary and will be approved within a few days.
Main Steps of Application and Obtaining Singapore EP
Once EP Online account is created, it is time to submit an application. There are few steps generally:
- Filling out a questionnaire for the candidate. It may take around 30-40 minutes or more, depending on the previous working history. Copies of IDs and educational documents must be attached attached. If they are not in English, they must be translated and attached together in the same files.
- There is requirement to state a place where the duties will be performed. Thus, it is usually necessary to secure a physical office prior to the application.
- You must pay 105 Singapore dollars to complete the application.
- The review time will be normally 3-4 weeks. However, it often takes up to 2 months. During this time, MOM may request some additional clarification regarding the details of employment and qualifications of the candidate.
- In case the application is not approved from the first attempt, an appeal can be submitted. It should detail the reasons why the Singapore company requires this particular employee. Appeal review may take another 1-2 months. In practice, about half of successful applications are approved only after the appeal.
- Upon approval of the application by the Ministry, an In-Principle Approval (IPA) Letter is issued. It serves as an entry visa that allows the applicant to come to Singapore. To finalize the paperwork, there will be fingerprinting and photo taken at the MOM office. This is done by the appointment which should be dome in advance. After this, EP card, which also serves as a local ID for the foreigner in Singapore, will be issued. The cost of issuing the card is $ 180. EP card allows fast-track automatic clearance upon arrival to and departure from in Singapore.
- It should be noted that IPA letter is valid for 6 months; if during this period the candidate has not issued a card and at the same time has not applied for an extension, his work visa is canceled and the process must be started again if necessary.
- Having received the Singapore EP, the employees must notify the Ministry of the address where they will reside. The address can be any rented or purchased property, but not a commercial address. The Ministry is quite strict to ensure that companies do not abuse the receipt of work visas for those persons who do not permanently reside in Singapore.
Overall, the process of application for Employment Pass in Singapore is quite straight-forward. But yet, it is quite tedious at the same time. We can definitely help you handle your EP application to achieve the best possible outcome. Please contact us and get your remaining questions answered.
Ready to Get Started?
Getting an Employment Pass in Singapore might seem overwhelming, but with the right guidance and preparation, it’s definitely doable. Whether you’re a skilled professional planning your move or a company hiring top talent, understanding the process is key to a smooth application. Now that you know what’s involved, from eligibility to approval, you’re ready to take the next step. Still have questions or want expert assistance to make sure your application succeeds? Our team is here to support you every step of the way. Contact us today, and let’s make your journey to working in Singapore successful!
