Singapore is a magnet for international talent. With its booming economy, multicultural workforce, and reputation as one of Asia’s most liveable cities, it’s no wonder thousands of professionals relocate here each year. But whether you’re a corporate executive, an entrepreneur, or a skilled worker, you can’t just pack a bag and start working — you’ll need the correct work pass.
This guide walks you through the various types of professional and semi-skilled work passes available in Singapore, what each one offers, and who qualifies. If you’re considering building a life or career in Singapore, understanding these options is a must.
Let’s explore the work pass landscape — and what it could mean for your career in Asia.
The Employment Pass (EP) is the most common work visa for foreign professionals in Singapore. It’s designed for experienced individuals taking on managerial, executive, or specialised roles.
You can't apply for this pass yourself — only your hiring company or an authorised employment agent can do so. Recently, Singapore introduced the COMPASS framework — a points-based system to assess eligibility, based on:
To qualify under current rules, your minimum monthly salary must start at S$5,000, increasing with age and sector (e.g. S$5,500 for the financial sector). By January 2025, this threshold will rise to S$5,600.
If approved, the pass is typically valid for two years and renewable for up to three. There’s no foreign worker levy or quota tied to EPs.
If you're not coming to Singapore as an employee, but as an entrepreneur with a groundbreaking idea or venture, the EntrePass could be your path.
It’s designed for startup founders building innovative, venture-backed businesses that can benefit the local economy. You can apply on your own, and there’s no minimum salary required. However, your business should:
The EntrePass is valid for one year and can be renewed for two years at a time.
For seasoned professionals seeking freedom to move between jobs without reapplying for new work passes, the Personalised Employment Pass is ideal.
To qualify:
The PEP is valid for three years and non-renewable. It’s not tied to a specific employer, giving you job flexibility not available with other passes.
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If you’re not yet at the EP level but still possess valuable skills and qualifications, the S Pass is likely the best fit.
To qualify:
The S Pass is valid for two years and renewable for up to three. Changing jobs means reapplying with a new employer.
If you're working in sectors like construction, marine, manufacturing, or domestic services, you’ll need a Work Permit, which is the broadest category of employment pass for lower-wage or less-specialised roles.
Valid for up to two years and renewable. Quota and levy systems apply.
This is for women aged 23–50 from approved countries, hired to perform household duties. Applicants must have formal education and cannot work for family members.
Open only to Malaysian nationals aged 23–70. This short-term pass is valid for 16 weeks after childbirth.
For foreign workers employed in entertainment venues (e.g. clubs, bars, lounges). Not renewable, and carries a post-expiry cooling-off period of one year.
Singapore also offers work passes for students and trainees to gain practical experience in their fields.
For professionals undergoing training or students from recognised institutions. Minimum salary applies. Valid for three months and not renewable.
For semi-skilled or unskilled trainees. No minimum salary but subject to quotas. Not renewable.
For students and recent grads (aged 18–25) to live and work in Singapore for up to six months. Separate arrangements exist for Australians and New Zealanders (valid for one year).
Many professionals relocating to Singapore bring their families with them. Several passes allow your loved ones to legally work while accompanying you.
If you hold an EP or S Pass and earn at least S$6,000/month, you can sponsor your legally married spouse and children under 21. Spouses can work if they get a Letter of Consent.
For common-law partners, step-children, or parents (if you earn above S$12,000/month). LTVP holders can apply for work with a valid Letter of Consent.
For family members of Singaporeans or PRs holding LTVPs. This allows them to work without separate job-specific approval.
If you’re a Dependant’s Pass holder who owns a business in Singapore, you may apply for this LOC, but you’ll need to hire at least one Singaporean or PR to renew.
There’s no denying that Singapore is one of the most exciting places to build a career in Asia. But getting the paperwork right is crucial. Understanding the differences between the EP, S Pass, and various Work Permits can mean the difference between a smooth start and a bureaucratic headache.
Don’t forget: even with a valid work pass, you’ll need to take care of other essentials — and health insurance Asia should be at the top of your list.
Singapore's work pass system may seem complex at first glance, but once broken down, it's clear that the structure supports a wide range of talents — from high-level executives to skilled tradespeople and students just starting out.
Whether you're applying for an Employment Pass or a short-term trainee visa, your move to Singapore is more than just a job change — it’s a life change. And that’s why preparation matters.
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