The Employment Pass (EP) in Singapore is a work visa designed for foreign professionals, managers, executives, and specialists who have job offers from Singaporean employers.

It allows them to work and live in Singapore for a specified period, typically tied to their employment contract and subject to meeting certain salary and qualification criteria.

The eligibility requirements for an Employment Pass (EP) in Singapore include:

• Salary Criteria: The applicant’s monthly salary must meet the minimum threshold, which varies depending on qualifications and experience. Typically, this threshold is higher for younger or less experienced candidates.

• Educational Qualifications: The applicant must possess relevant educational qualifications, such as a degree from a recognized institution, professional certifications, or specialized skills that are in demand in Singapore.

• Work Experience: Applicants should have relevant work experience in their field of expertise, demonstrating their ability to contribute to Singapore’s economy and fill skill gaps in local industries.

• Job Offer: The applicant must have a job offer from a Singapore-based employer who is registered with the Ministry of Manpower (MOM) and has a strong track record of compliance with employment laws.

• Sufficient Quota: There must be sufficient quota available for the EP category under which the applicant is applying, as Singapore imposes quotas and restrictions on the number of foreign workers in certain industries.

• Background Check: Applicants must pass a background check, including checks on criminal records and financial stability, to ensure they are of good character and suitable for employment in Singapore.

Meeting these criteria and obtaining approval from MOM are essential for securing an Employment Pass to work legally in Singapore.

The documents required for an Employment Pass (EP) application in Singapore typically include:

• Employment Pass Application Form: The completed and signed EP application form, which can be obtained from the Ministry of Manpower (MOM) website or through authorized agencies.
• Company Incorporation Documents: Documents proving the legal existence of the employing company in Singapore, such as business registration certificates (e.g., ACRA BizFile), Memorandum and Articles of Association, and board resolution authorizing the EP application (if applicable).
• Job Offer Letter: A formal job offer letter from the employing company stating the applicant’s position, job responsibilities, salary, benefits, and employment terms.
• Educational Certificates: Copies of educational certificates and qualifications relevant to the job position, such as degree certificates, diplomas, professional certifications, or vocational training certificates.
• Passport: A copy of the applicant’s passport personal particulars page showing passport details, photograph, and signature. The passport should have a remaining validity of at least six months.
• Resume or Curriculum Vitae (CV): A detailed resume or CV outlining the applicant’s work experience, skills, employment history, and achievements.
• Photograph: Recent passport-sized color photograph(s) of the applicant taken against a white background, adhering to MOM’s specifications.
• Employment Contracts or Agreements: Copies of employment contracts or agreements between the applicant and the employing company, including terms of employment, duration of employment, and salary details.
• Additional Supporting Documents: Depending on the nature of the job position and specific requirements, additional documents may be required, such as proof of relevant work experience, professional memberships, industry certifications, or endorsements from relevant authorities.
• Declaration Form: A declaration form providing information about the applicant’s background, employment history, criminal record (if any), and compliance with MOM’s regulations.

Applicants and their employers should ensure that all required documents are accurate, complete, and properly prepared according to MOM’s guidelines. Any additional documents or clarifications requested by MOM during the application process should be promptly provided to avoid delays or complications. Professional advice from immigration consultants or legal experts can be beneficial in navigating the EP application process effectively.

The application procedure for an Employment Pass (EP) in Singapore typically follows these steps:

• Eligibility Check: Ensure that you meet the eligibility criteria for the EP, such as having a job offer from a Singaporean employer, possessing relevant qualifications and work experience, and meeting the salary requirements based on your qualifications and experience level.
• Submission of Application: The employer or an authorized employment agent submits the EP application online through the Ministry of Manpower’s (MOM) website. Required documents include the candidate’s passport details, educational certificates, employment offer letter, and other supporting documents.
• Application Processing: MOM reviews the EP application, assesses the candidate’s qualifications, work experience, and salary offer, and conducts any necessary checks, such as verifying qualifications and checking the employer’s track record.
• In-Principle Approval (IPA): If the application is successful, MOM issues an In-Principle Approval (IPA) letter, which allows the candidate to travel to Singapore and work while awaiting the issuance of the EP.
• Medical Examination and Formalities: Upon arrival in Singapore, the candidate undergoes a medical examination at an authorized clinic. After passing the medical exam, the candidate completes the EP formalities, including fingerprinting and photo-taking at MOM Services Centre.
• EP Issuance: Once all formalities are completed and documents are verified, MOM issues the EP, allowing the candidate to commence employment with the sponsoring employer in Singapore.

It’s essential to ensure that all required documents are accurate, complete, and submitted according to MOM’s guidelines. Any additional information or clarifications requested by MOM during the application process should be promptly provided to avoid delays. Professional advice from immigration consultants or legal experts can also be beneficial in navigating the EP application process effectively.

As per MOM guidelines, companies intending to hire foreign professionals must advertise the position on Singapore’s Workforce Development Agency’s Jobs Bank for at least 14 days. However, companies meeting the following criteria are exempt from this mandate:

• Companies with fewer than 10 employees.
• Roles offering a fixed monthly salary of S$15,000 or higher.
• Positions for intra-corporate transferees (ICTs), such as senior executives or professionals with specialized expertise.
• Roles needed for less than one month.

Employment Pass holders can take up directorship in related companies, subject to MOM approval.

The employer must ensure the EP holder’s awareness and obtain a Letter of Consent (LOC) from MOM, followed by registration with ACRA.

Typically, an LOC is granted if the directorship is related to the EP holder’s primary employment.

If your Employment Pass (EP) application in Singapore is rejected, you have the option to submit an appeal within 3 months from the date of rejection. The appeal will be reviewed by the Ministry of Manpower (MOM), and you may need to provide additional supporting documents or address any concerns raised in the initial rejection. The processing time for the appeal can vary but generally takes around 3 to 8 weeks.

If your application is unsuccessful, we can help to investigate why your application was rejected and to refine your application and business plan based on MOM’s feedback and submit an appeal on your behalf.

The renewal process for an Employment Pass (EP) in Singapore typically involves submitting an application to the Ministry of Manpower (MOM) within six months before the pass expires. The application should include updated information about the employee, employer, and any changes in the terms of employment.

The processing time for EP renewal applications can vary but generally takes around 3 to 8 weeks.

If an Employment Pass holder wishes to cancel their pass, the employer or pass holder should notify the Ministry of Manpower (MOM) in writing.

The cancellation process typically involves submitting a cancellation request through the EP Online system or by submitting a hard copy form. Upon cancellation, the pass holder must return their pass card to MOM within one week.

EP holders can apply for a Personalised Employment Pass (PEP), a unique type of pass for high-level individuals.

Unlike the standard Employment Pass, the PEP isn’t tied to a specific employer, offering the holder more freedom to change employers while retaining PEP status.

If interested, please visit our link for PEP here.