EP vs S Pass: which Singapore visa is right for you?
Singapore's two main work passes: the Employment Pass for higher-earning professionals, managers and executives, and the S Pass for mid-skilled staff (with quotas and levies for employers).
Side-by-side comparison
| Feature | Employment Pass (EP) | S Pass (S Pass) |
|---|---|---|
| Type | Temporary | Temporary |
| Who it's for | For foreign professionals, managers and executives in skilled jobs sponsored by a Singapore employer. | For mid-skilled foreign workers such as technicians sponsored by a Singapore employer, subject to quota and levy. |
| Government cost | ~S$105 application + S$225 issuance per pass | ~S$105 application + S$100 issuance; employer pays a monthly levy (from S$650) |
| Processing time | ~10 working days online | ~3 weeks |
| Length of stay | Up to 2 years (first issue), renewable up to 3 years | Up to 2 years, renewable |
| Where to apply | Online via employer/agent on MOM's myMOM Portal | Online via employer/agent on MOM's myMOM Portal |
| Work rights | Work only for the sponsoring employer in the named role | Work only for the sponsoring employer |
| Points-tested | Yes | No |
| Pathway to PR | EP holders may apply for Permanent Residence after working in Singapore for a period. | S Pass holders may apply for Permanent Residence after establishing a track record. |
Which is right for you?
Employment Pass (EP)
For foreign professionals, managers and executives in skilled jobs sponsored by a Singapore employer.
Full EP guide →S Pass (S Pass)
For mid-skilled foreign workers such as technicians sponsored by a Singapore employer, subject to quota and levy.
Full S Pass guide →Frequently asked questions
Which is cheaper, EP or S Pass?
On indicative 2025-26 government costs, Employment Pass (EP) is the lowest at ~S$105 application + S$225 issuance per pass. Government fees change periodically - confirm before applying.
Which is processed faster, EP or S Pass?
Indicatively S Pass (S Pass) is the quickest at ~3 weeks. Actual timeframes depend on caseload and how complete your application is.
What's the main difference between EP and S Pass?
Employment Pass (EP) is for for foreign professionals, managers and executives in skilled jobs sponsored by a Singapore employer. S Pass (S Pass) is for for mid-skilled foreign workers such as technicians sponsored by a Singapore employer, subject to quota and levy.