Employment Pass
For foreign professionals, managers and executives in skilled jobs sponsored by a Singapore employer.
The Employment Pass is a Singapore work & skilled visa. This guide covers who it's for, the key eligibility criteria, the indicative 2025 cost (~S$105 application + S$225 issuance per pass) and processing time (~10 working days online), the route to permanent residence, common pitfalls and FAQs.
Who the Employment Pass is for
For foreign professionals, managers and executives in skilled jobs sponsored by a Singapore employer.
EP holders may apply for Permanent Residence after working in Singapore for a period.
Employment Pass - eligibility criteria
- Fixed monthly salary from S$5,600 (S$6,200 financial sector), rising with age
- Pass the points-based COMPASS framework (min 40 points)
- Recognised university degree or strong professional qualifications
- Job offer from an established Singapore employer
- Employer advertises role per Fair Consideration Framework
Employment Pass cost & processing time (2025)
The indicative government fee for the Employment Pass (Singapore) is ~S$105 application + S$225 issuance per pass, with an indicative processing time of ~10 working days online. Figures are for 2025 and may change - confirm at Singapore MOM / ICA.
| Type | Temporary |
|---|---|
| Where you apply | Online via employer/agent on MOM's myMOM Portal |
| Length of stay | Up to 2 years (first issue), renewable up to 3 years |
| Work rights | Work only for the sponsoring employer in the named role |
| Study rights | Can study part-time; dependants may study |
| Government fee | ~S$105 application + S$225 issuance per pass |
| Processing time | ~10 working days online |
| Route to PR | EP holders may apply for Permanent Residence after working in Singapore for a period. |
Pathway & next steps
EP holders may apply for Permanent Residence after working in Singapore for a period.
Many applicants also compare S Pass · S Pass, PEP · Personalised Employment Pass, ONE Pass · Overseas Networks & Expertise Pass. Run a free VisaChief check to see which Singapore route best fits your profile, then prepare an application reviewed by a registered migration agency in our partner network.
Common Employment Pass pitfalls we fix
Employment Pass - frequently asked questions
How much does the Employment Pass cost?
The Employment Pass government fee is ~S$105 application + S$225 issuance per pass. Figures are indicative for 2025; always confirm current fees at Singapore MOM / ICA before applying.
How long does the Employment Pass take to process?
Indicative processing time is ~10 working days online. Actual timeframes vary with caseload, completeness and your circumstances.
Does the Employment Pass lead to permanent residence?
EP holders may apply for Permanent Residence after working in Singapore for a period.
Can I work on the Employment Pass?
Work rights: Work only for the sponsoring employer in the named role.
Who can apply for the Employment Pass?
For foreign professionals, managers and executives in skilled jobs sponsored by a Singapore employer.
Sources & official references
This guide is compiled from official Singapore government sources and is updated periodically. Eligibility, fees and processing times change - always confirm the current rules with the issuing authority before you apply:
- Singapore MOM / ICA - official Singapore immigration authority