The Skills Pass in Singapore is a work pass designed for foreign nationals with specialized skills, expertise, or qualifications that are in demand in specific sectors or industries.

It allows them to work in Singapore for a designated period, typically tied to their job offer and subject to meeting certain criteria such as salary thresholds and relevant qualifications.

An S Pass application is assessed by the MOM on a point-based system. The eligibility requirements for a Skill Pass in Singapore include:

• Relevant Skills and Qualifications: Applicants must possess specialized skills, expertise, or qualifications that are in demand in specific sectors or industries in Singapore. These skills should demonstrate the applicant’s ability to contribute to Singapore’s economy and fill skill gaps in the local workforce. Holds a degree, diploma, or technical certificate with at least 1 year of full-time study.

• 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 genuine need for the applicant’s specialized skills.

• Minimum Salary: Fixed monthly salary of at least S$2,300.

• 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 holding a Skill Pass.

• Industry Demand: The applicant’s skills and expertise should align with sectors or industries that have a demonstrated need for foreign talent and where there may be shortages of skilled professionals in Singapore.

• Quota and Approval: The application for a Skill Pass is subject to quota restrictions and approval by MOM, which assesses the applicant’s qualifications, job offer, and contribution to Singapore’s economy and workforce.

These eligibility requirements aim to attract and retain skilled foreign professionals who can contribute to Singapore’s growth and development in key sectors and industries.

“Employer Tax” refers to the taxes that employers are required to pay based on their business activities, employee wages, and other factors.

The documents required for a Skills Pass (S Pass) application in Singapore typically include:

• Application Form: The completed and signed S Pass application form, which can be obtained from the Ministry of Manpower (MOM) website or through authorized agencies.
• Company’s Details: Information about the employing company, such as its business registration number, address, contact details, and relevant business activities.
• 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.
• Job Offer Letter: A formal job offer letter from the employing company stating the applicant’s position, job responsibilities, salary, benefits, and employment terms.
• 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.
• Educational Qualifications: Copies of educational certificates and qualifications relevant to the job position, such as degree certificates, diplomas, professional certifications, or vocational training certificates.
• Work Experience: Documentation proving the applicant’s relevant work experience, such as employment records, work references, or portfolios showcasing previous projects and achievements.
• Photograph: Recent passport-sized color photograph(s) of the applicant taken against a white background, adhering to MOM’s specifications.
• Declaration Form: A declaration form providing information about the applicant’s background, employment history, criminal record (if any), and compliance with MOM’s regulations.
• Additional Supporting Documents: Depending on the specific requirements and circumstances, additional documents may be requested by MOM or deemed necessary for the S Pass application process.

It’s crucial for applicants and their employers to ensure that all required documents are accurate, complete, and properly prepared according to MOM’s guidelines. Any additional information or clarifications requested by MOM during the application process should be promptly provided to facilitate a smooth and successful S Pass application. Professional advice from immigration consultants or legal experts can also be beneficial in navigating the S Pass application process effectively.

The application procedure for a Skill Pass in Singapore typically follows these steps:

• Eligibility Check: Ensure that you meet the eligibility criteria for the Skill Pass, which is designed for mid-skilled technical personnel in sectors like manufacturing, construction, marine, and services.
• Employer’s Application: The sponsoring employer submits the Skill Pass application to the Ministry of Manpower (MOM) or an authorized employment agent.
• Submission of Documents: The application includes the candidate’s passport details, educational qualifications, relevant work experience, employment offer letter, and other supporting documents.
• Application Processing: MOM reviews the Skill Pass application, assesses the candidate’s qualifications, work experience, and the employer’s need for the specific skills, and conducts any necessary checks.
• 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 complete the formalities for obtaining the Skill Pass.
• Formalities and Issuance: Upon arrival in Singapore, the candidate completes the formalities, including fingerprinting and photo-taking at the MOM Services Centre. Once all requirements are met and documents are verified, MOM issues the Skill Pass, allowing the candidate to work in Singapore for the specified duration.

It’s important 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 Skill Pass application process effectively.

Companies are subject to a quota when hiring S Pass holders, with limits based on their sector:

• In the services sector, the cap is 15% of the company’s total workforce.
• For all other sectors, the cap is set at 20%.

The foreign worker levy serves to control the number of foreign workers in Singapore, requiring employers to pay a monthly levy for each S Pass holder they employ.

The levy rates vary based on the sector and quota percentage, with higher rates for sectors exceeding specific workforce thresholds.

The levy rate for services sector is as follows:

Tier	Quota (%)	Monthly Levy Rate
Basic / Tier 1	Up to 10% of the total workforce	S$330
Tier 2	Above 10 % of the total workforce	S$650

The levy rate for all other sectors (excluding services) is as follows:

Tier	Quota (%)	Monthly Levy Rate
Basic / Tier 1	Up to 10% of the total workforce	S$330
Tier 2	Above 10% to 18% of the total workforce	S$650

The renewal process for a Skill Pass in Singapore involves submitting an application to the Ministry of Manpower (MOM) at least 2 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 Skill Pass renewal applications can vary but generally takes around 3 to 8 weeks.

To cancel a Skill Pass in Singapore, the pass holder or their employer needs to notify the Ministry of Manpower (MOM) in writing. This can be done through the EP Online system or by submitting a hard copy cancellation form.

The pass holder must return their pass card to MOM within one week of cancellation.

S Pass holders earning a fixed monthly salary of S$6,000 or above qualify to apply for a Dependant’s Pass, which permits their spouse and children to reside in Singapore.