Overview of Singapore’s Work Visa System
Singapore’s work visa system is primarily designed to cater to professionals, skilled workers, and foreign talent that contribute to the country’s economic growth. The Ministry of Manpower (MOM) oversees the work visa system and offers several visa categories based on factors such as salary, education, skillset, and industry.
The main types of work visas are:
– Employment Pass (EP)
– S Pass
– Work Permit for Foreign Worker
– EntrePass
– Personalised Employment Pass (PEP)
– Permanent Resident (PR) Status
Each visa has specific eligibility criteria and benefits. Let’s take a closer look at each one to help you understand which is the best fit for your circumstances.
Employment Pass
The Employment Pass (EP) is the most common work visa for foreign professionals, managers, and executives in Singapore. It is primarily issued to individuals who hold a recognized degree, have specialized skills, or possess relevant work experience in their field. The EP allows you to work in Singapore for a period of up to two years, with the option to renew the visa.
Eligibility Criteria:
A job offer from a Singapore-based employer.
A minimum monthly salary of SGD 5,000 (this amount may vary depending on your qualifications and work experience).
A recognized degree, professional qualifications, or specialized skills.
Benefits:
Eligible for dependent passes for your spouse and children.
Opportunity to apply for Permanent Residency (PR) after two years of continuous employment.
Flexibility to work in any sector or job role in Singapore.
S Pass
The S Pass is designed for mid-skilled foreign workers in Singapore. This visa is ideal for individuals who may not have a degree but possess relevant skills and qualifications in technical or non-technical fields. It is commonly issued to workers in industries such as construction, manufacturing, and healthcare.
Eligibility Criteria:
A job offer from a Singapore-based employer.
A minimum monthly salary of SGD 2,500 (subject to changes).
A recognized diploma or technical qualifications.
Generally, applicants must have at least 3 years of relevant work experience.
Benefits:
Dependent passes for your family members may be granted, depending on the salary level.
The S Pass is renewable, but the renewal is subject to meeting MOM’s quota and salary requirements.
Provides a pathway for PR application after several years of work.
Work Permit for Foreign Worker
The Work Permit for Foreign Worker is a visa designed for low-skilled foreign workers in sectors such as construction, manufacturing, and marine. This visa is often used by workers who are employed in labor-intensive jobs that do not require specialized knowledge or professional qualifications.
Eligibility Criteria:
The foreign worker must be employed by a registered Singapore employer.
The employer must comply with the MOM’s quota system, which limits the number of foreign workers per industry.
Generally, this visa is issued for workers from specific countries under the MOM’s designated agreements.
Benefits:
Renewable for up to two years, depending on the worker’s employment status.
Limited benefits for family members (usually no dependent passes available).
Works well for industries that require labor-intensive work but may not require high levels of professional training.
EntrePass
The EntrePass is a work visa that allows foreign entrepreneurs to start and operate a business in Singapore. This pass is ideal for individuals who want to establish their business ventures in one of the world’s most competitive and innovative markets.
Eligibility Criteria:
The applicant must be starting a business in Singapore in a sector that is considered innovative, such as technology, biotech, or research.
The business must be registered with the Accounting and Corporate Regulatory Authority (ACRA).
The business must meet certain requirements, such as hiring local employees or generating a certain level of revenue.
Benefits:
Opportunity to apply for PR after operating a business for several years.
Flexibility to recruit talent from both local and international markets.
It supports business growth by offering flexibility in operations and networking opportunities in Singapore’s dynamic economy.
Personalised Employment Pass
The Personalised Employment Pass (PEP) is designed for high-income professionals who are already working in Singapore and wish to continue their employment here. This pass is ideal for individuals with an existing Employment Pass or foreign professionals with a high level of expertise and income.
Eligibility Criteria:
Applicants must be employed in Singapore and earning a monthly salary of at least SGD 12,000.
Foreign professionals must have a degree from a recognized university and substantial work experience.
It is a one-time pass, meaning that once issued, it is not renewable.
Benefits:
No need to have a specific employer, offering more flexibility to switch jobs or change careers.
Spouses and children can be granted dependent passes.
Eligible individuals can apply for PR after working in Singapore for a few years.