As Singapore continues to lead in innovation and global business, your company may often seek professionals with very specific expertise in emerging technologies, international markets, or highly specialized fields. While Singapore has a strong local talent pool, certain roles require unique combinations of skills and experience that may be rare in any single market. 

Singapore’s Employment Pass (EP) program enables you to build stronger, more diverse teams by bringing together local talent with specialized international professionals who contribute complementary skills and fresh perspectives. 

What is an Employment Pass? 

The Employment Pass is a work visa reserved only for skilled foreign professionals, managers, executives and technicians (PMETs). Valid for up to two years initially, it will allow foreign talent you would like to employ work legally in Singapore and apply for permanent residency after one year.  

To qualify, candidates must earn at least  

• S$5,600/month for new applications from 1 January 2025  

• S$5,600/month for renewals expiring from 1 January 2026 

• S$5,000/month for renewals expiring between 1 January to 31 December 2025 

Exact thresholds for each candidate vary based on where they are from, and will increase with the applicant’s age or for those in the financial sector. Check for more details on EP eligibility here. 

What is the difference between EP and S Pass? 

They may seem similar, but these are two distinct types of work permits with very different requirements. 

*Exact thresholds for each candidate vary based on where they are from, their age and sector.

• EP is for higher-skilled professionals (PMETS); S Pass is for mid-skilled workers (e.g., technicians and support staff). 

• EP has no quota or levy, while S Pass is subject to sector-specific quotas and monthly levies. 

• The minimum salary for EP is higher than for S Pass. 

If you are looking to submit an application for the S Pass instead, please refer to MOM here. 

How Applications Are Evaluated 

Your company must also meet criteria under the Complementarity Assessment Framework (COMPASS) and provide reasonable explanations on why you have chosen to bring on board this specific applicant over local prospects.  

The framework examines individual qualifications including education credentials and relevant experience. It also considers diversity factors to encourage inclusive workplace environments and requires you to demonstrate local employment support through fair hiring practices and commitment to developing Singapore’s existing workforce alongside international hires. 

This is why integration planning of your foreign talent remains equally important. EP holders can apply for permanent residency after one year of employment, with options for family integration (Dependant’s Pass). These career development pathways support long-term retention and deeper organisational investment. 

What You Need to Apply 

Successful EP applications require candidates to meet several eligibility criteria. They need recognized educational qualifications and relevant professional experience, along with competitive salaries meeting your industry standards. 

Your chosen applications must clearly demonstrate the specialized skills needed for the role that complement existing local capabilities. Evidence of fair local hiring practices and comprehensive company business information that supports the strategic need for international expertise is also required of you. 

As the documentation process demands careful preparation, make sure to exercise due diligence by conducting checks to ensure compliance with MOM regulations, including verifying employee information and making sure that they are in possession of the right documents. 

The Bigger Picture 

Singapore’s approach recognises that international talent adds to local strengths. The EP program helps build teams where global professionals work alongside local employees, sharing knowledge and raising overall capability.  

This balance positions Singapore as a dynamic business hub that attracts and develops top talent from around the world, while also ensuring long-term growth and strong opportunities for the local workforce. 

Our team at Verti Human Capital can help you navigate the application processes for the Employment Pass, giving your business access to the international talent you need while ensuring full compliance with Singapore’s regulatory requirements. We guide you through every step of the process, from initial eligibility assessment to final approval. 

Reach out to us at contactus@verti.sg or +65 6909 5691.  

All information accurate as of 28 August 2025