If you are considering working in Singapore, you might have a question: what is the difference between an Employment Pass (EP) and an S Pass? Understanding these two types of work visas is crucial for anyone coming to work in Singapore.
In this article, we will guide you through the fundamental information about the EP and S Pass, including eligibility criteria, key features, and their pros and cons. We will also cover the salary requirements, quota limitations, and accompanying dependant visas for both. Having comprehensive information will help you make an informed decision when choosing the right work visa for Singapore.
Table of Contents
Overview of Employment Pass (EP) and S Pass
In Singapore, the Ministry of Manpower (MOM) is responsible for overseeing the issuance of work passes, which includes the Employment Pass (EP) and the S Pass.
- Employment Pass applicants must have a job offer from a Singaporean employer, meet the minimum salary requirement, and possess relatively high qualifications and experience.
- The S Pass is generally intended for mid-skilled foreign employees, requiring applicants to meet different eligibility criteria, such as a set minimum wage and qualifications.
The main difference between the EP and the S Pass lies in the eligibility criteria that applicants must meet. To obtain an EP, an applicant must have secured a job offer with a minimum monthly salary of S$5,600 and possess professional skills or qualifications. In contrast, the S Pass is for mid-skilled foreign workers, with a minimum monthly salary requirement of S$3,300.
Qualifications, Work Experience, and Skills Required for EP and S Pass
According to the Ministry of Manpower’s (MOM) standard list of occupations, who is eligible for an EP or S Pass?
The MOM’s standard list of occupations provides the types of jobs eligible for each type of Singapore work visa.
Typically, employers will offer an S Pass to mid-level skilled PMETs (Professionals, Managers, Executives, and Technicians) who have qualifications such as a diploma or technical certificate, along with work experience in a relevant field. These foreign workers often hold positions such as technicians, supervisors, and executives in industries like construction, manufacturing, services, and marine.
The Employment Pass (EP) is reserved for highly-skilled PMETs with a degree from a reputable university or extensive work experience in a relevant field. The Singapore EP is not limited to any specific industry and is open to all types of jobs in Singapore, including finance, technology, healthcare, and many others.
Please note: The MOM’s standard list of occupations is not exhaustive, and some unlisted positions may still be eligible for an S Pass or EP, depending on the applicant’s individual qualifications and experience.
Related Articles:
Differences Between Employment Pass and S Pass
We have listed the different criteria for the EP and S Pass in the table below:
| Employment Pass (EP) | S Pass | |
| Who can apply? | For high-earning professionals who meet a fixed minimum monthly salary. | For mid-skilled workers who meet specific salary requirements. |
| What are the considerations? | Depends on the applicant’s position, salary, educational qualifications, skills, and work experience.
Additionally, applicants need to score at least 40 points under the Complementarity Assessment Framework (COMPASS) to apply for an EP. |
Educational qualifications are not mandatory, but work experience and salary are considered. |
| Employer requirements | Employers must contribute to the Central Provident Fund (CPF) for the employee, provide a suitable work environment, comply with labor laws, and notify MOM of any changes. | Provide appropriate health insurance and strictly adhere to work regulations.
|
| Minimum monthly salary | A minimum monthly salary of S$5,600. The salary requirement varies by industry and years of work experience. | A minimum monthly salary of S$3,300. Older, more experienced applicants have higher salary standards. |
| Education & Experience requirements | Must have a degree from a reputable university or relevant work experience. The degree must be verified by an accredited institution.
Education or work experience must be relevant to the position the candidate is applying for. |
Must have a degree or diploma, or relevant work experience. Education or work experience must be relevant to the applied position. |
| Who applies? | – An employer from a Singapore-registered company
– An appointed employment agent – If the pass holder changes jobs, the new employer must apply for a new pass. |
– An employer from a Singapore-registered company
– An appointed employment agent – If the pass holder changes jobs, the new employer must apply for a new pass. |
| How long is it valid? | First-time application: Up to 2 years
Renewal: Up to 3 years |
Usually 1 to 2 years |
| Is there a quota? | No | Yes.
Companies cannot hire more S Pass holders than the following limits: Service sector companies: 13% of the total workforce; Other sectors: 20% of the total workforce. If this S Pass quota is exceeded, the company needs to increase its local workforce or reduce the number of foreign workers. |
| Is Foreign Worker Levy required? | No | Yes, there is a Foreign Worker Levy and a Skills Development Levy.
Employers must pay the levy for all S Pass holders. The Tier 1 levy rate for the S Pass will be increased to S$650 from September 1, 2025. There is no change to the Tier 2 levy, which remains at S$650. |
| Dependant visas | Can apply for a Dependant’s Pass for a legally married spouse and unmarried children, as well as a Long-Term Visit Pass. | Can apply for a Dependant’s Pass for a legally married spouse and unmarried children, as well as a Long-Term Visit Pass. |
Advantages of Employment Pass (EP)
The Employment Pass (EP) offers various benefits to foreign employees working in Singapore, including privileges for dependants and opportunities to work for Singaporean companies.
One of the main advantages of holding an EP is having a visa that allows for seamless employment opportunities. EP holders can find continuous career opportunities in Singapore, a thriving business hub. Employment Pass holders can also bring their immediate family members to relocate to Singapore, for instance, allowing their children to study in Singapore, which promotes a good work-life balance.
Advantages of S Pass
The S Pass is another work permit offered to foreign employees in Singapore, providing opportunities to work for Singaporean companies within specified quota requirements. Companies applying for S Passes are subject to quota restrictions to prevent over-reliance on foreign labor and to promote the hiring of local talent.
The S Pass is designed for mid-skilled foreign workers, offering an essential pathway for companies to hire talent that does not meet the criteria for an Employment Pass (EP). Applicants must meet specific eligibility criteria, including a minimum salary threshold and educational qualifications.
The key features and advantages of the Singapore S Pass lie in its design as a work visa for mid-skilled foreign employees, striking a good balance between professional qualifications and salary thresholds. The S Pass allows employers to hire eligible non-local residents, contributing to a diverse workforce.
How Can Employers Apply for an EP or S Pass for Their Employees?
If a company needs to hire a foreigner, they can follow this process to apply for an Employment Pass or S Pass:
- Post a job advertisement on the government-approved website.
- The position posted must match the occupation in the Employment Pass/S Pass application.
- The employer submitting the Employment Pass/S Pass application must be the same as the employer in the job advertisement.
- The job advertisement must remain open for at least 28 days after posting.
- If the job details are amended during this period, the ad must remain open for another 28 days after the change.
- The Employment Pass/S Pass application can be started on the 29th day.
- If the position advertised in the job posting takes more than 3 months to be filled, an Employment Pass/S Pass application cannot be submitted.
- Apply for an EP Pass through MOM’s official online service.
- Apply for an S Pass through MOM’s official online service.
For further enquiries, please get in touch:
WeChat: sgleokwek
Telegram: sgleokwek
WhatsApp: Message us
