Imiatlas

🇸🇬 Singapore

Singapore Work Visa: requirements and how to apply

Singapore has 2 work visa routes: Employment Pass (EP - COMPASS Framework), ONE Pass (Overseas Networks & Expertise Pass).

Official Singapore work visa page

Employment Pass (EP - COMPASS Framework)

Core work pass for foreign professionals, managers, and executives earning qualifying salaries.

Typical duration
2 to 3 years renewable (up to 5 years for tech experienced roles)
Path to permanent residency
Eligible to apply for Singapore Permanent Residence (SPR) via ICA after holding EP

Main requirements

  • Salary ≥ S$5,600/mo
  • 40+ points on COMPASS matrix

Official page

ONE Pass (Overseas Networks & Expertise Pass)

5-year personalized work pass for top achievers across business, arts, sports, science, and tech.

Typical duration
5 years
Path to permanent residency
High-priority SPR consideration

Main requirements

  • Fixed monthly salary ≥ S$30,000 or outstanding career achievements

Official page

Documents usually needed for Singapore

  • Minimum qualifying salary threshold (at least S$5,600/month, higher for financial services or older applicants)
  • Passing score (minimum 40 points) on the COMPASS scoring framework (evaluating salary, qualifications, diversity, and local hiring)
  • Employer sponsorship and EP eService submission via myMOM portal
  • Passport valid for at least 6 months and a compliant photo (make yours here)

Application steps

  1. 1

    COMPASS Points Assessment & Verification

    Employer verifies academic credentials via accredited screening agencies (Dataflow, Sterling) and calculates COMPASS score.

    1 - 2 weeks

  2. 2

    EP Application via myMOM Portal

    Employer submits application online to Ministry of Manpower.

    10 - 20 business days

  3. 3

    In-Principle Approval (IPA) & Card Issuance

    Receive IPA letter, enter Singapore, register biometrics at MOM Employment Pass Services Centre.

    1 - 2 weeks

More about moving to Singapore

Find a licensed adviser

For advice on your own case, use a licensed immigration lawyer or adviser. Always check they are registered before you pay anyone. Imiatlas does not refer or review cases.

Look for a lawyer registered with the national bar association or law society in Singapore. The official immigration website explains any rules on who may represent applicants.

Ministry of Manpower (MOM) & Immigration & Checkpoints Authority (ICA)

General information to help you research, not legal advice. Rules change often: always confirm with Ministry of Manpower (MOM) & Immigration & Checkpoints Authority (ICA) on the official website before applying.