Understand EP requirements, application process, and company obligations for hiring foreign professionals in Singapore. Essential information for employers and applicants.
The Employment Pass (EP) is Singapore's premier work visa for foreign professionals, managers, and executives. It allows skilled foreign talent to work in Singapore and is designed for individuals earning higher salaries with relevant qualifications and experience.
For managers, executives, and specialists
Minimum S$5,000/month (fresh graduates S$3,900)
Up to 2 years, renewable
Dependant Pass eligibility for family
EP applications must pass two stages: first meet the EP qualifying salary, then pass the COMPASS points-based assessment.
Must meet minimum salary benchmarked to top 1/3 local PMET salaries by age
Need to earn 40 points to pass COMPASS
Relative to local PMET salaries
Educational background & professional qualifications
Candidate's nationality share among firm's PMETs
Firm's local PMET share
Shortage Occupation List
Economic strategic priority areas
Use MOM's Self-Assessment Tool (SAT) to check your eligibility before applying
Negotiate higher salary for more C1 points
Join employers with diverse nationality mix for C3 points
Choose employers committed to local staff for C4 points
What employers need to know
Requirements for companies hiring EP holders
Understanding foreign worker ratios
Employer responsibilities during EP validity
Step-by-step guide to EP application
Gather documents and prepare application
Submit application through EPOL system
MOM reviews and processes application
Complete final steps after approval
Ensuring authenticity of educational credentials
Important Information
MOM requires verification proof for all candidates' qualifications to ensure they are authentic and awarded by accredited institutions. You only need to verify qualifications once per candidate.
Understand how to obtain qualification verification for your EP application
Select from MOM-approved background screening companies or official portals
Provide educational background and qualification details to verification agency
Verification agency confirms credentials and provides official report
Include verification report as part of your EP application submission
Understanding different Singapore work passes
* Information as of 2025, please refer to official requirements for latest updates
Let our expert team assist you with the EP application process for successful approval.