Understanding Singapore Work Passes: A Complete Guide for Employers & Professionals

Looking to work or hire talent in Singapore? The Lion City’s Ministry of Manpower (MOM) has built a smart, transparent system that makes it easier than ever to bring global talent into Singapore while ensuring strong opportunities for local professionals. 

Whether you’re an employer expanding your team or a professional chasing your next big career move, this guide breaks down what you need to know about Singapore’s four main work passes and how to secure yours quickly and confidently. 

1. Employment Pass (EP) 

Who It's For: Senior management, professionals, and specialists with recognized qualifications and expertise. 

Key Eligibility Criteria: 

• Monthly minimum qualifying salary of at least starting from $5,000 and increasing progressively with age, up to $10,500 for those in the mid-40s.   

• Relevant qualifications and professional experience 

• Job must require specialized skills or expertise 

• Employer must be a registered entity with good compliance record 

Application Process: Employer submits application through MOM portal with job description, employment contract, and candidate credentials. Processing typically takes 3 weeks. 

2. S Pass 

Who It's For: Skilled workers in mid-tier positions requiring technical expertise. 

Key Eligibility Criteria: 

• Monthly salary of at least SGD 3,300 for ALL sectors and SGD 3,800 for Financial Services sector. 

• Relevant vocational qualifications or equivalent experience 

• Job must require specialized skills 

• Quota restrictions apply 

Application Process: Similar to EP. Our team manages the entire employer-initiated process through the MOM portal, ensuring every submission is complete with the required documentation for your candidate’s qualifications and work experience 

3. Dependant Pass (DP) 

Who It's For: Spouses and unmarried children (below 21 years) of EP/S Pass holders and certain other visa holders. 

Key Eligibility Criteria: 

• Sponsor must have valid EP or S Pass 

• Sponsor's monthly salary must meet minimum thresholds of SGD 6,000. This is based on your salary, and not on your combined household income. 

• Dependent must have valid travel documents 

• Medical examination required 

Application Process: Sponsor applies through MOM portal; processing takes 3 weeks. Dependants can work with approval. 

4. Work Permit (WP) 

Who It's For: Semi-skilled and unskilled workers in specific sectors (manufacturing, construction, domestic work, etc.). 

Key Eligibility Criteria: 

• Sector-specific quotas apply 

• Employer must be registered with MOM 

• Worker must undergo medical examination and security clearance 

• Minimum salary requirements vary by sector 

• Levy applicable 

Application Process: Employer applies through MOM portal; requires worker's credentials, employment contract, and medical reports. Processing typically takes 10-14 working days. 

Digital Transformation: The Future of Work Pass Applications 

myMOM Portal 

• Centralized online platform for all work pass applications 

• Real-time application tracking and status updates 

• Integrated document submission system 

• Reduced processing times and enhanced transparency 

COMPASS Framework 

• Compliant, Responsible, and Sustainable (COMPASS) framework guides employer compliance 

• Emphasis on fair employment practices and worker welfare 

• Integration with foreign worker management systems 

• Focus on skills development and upskilling initiatives 

Smarter Processes, Faster Results 

• Paperless application processes 

• E-verification of credentials 

• Automated eligibility screening 

• Seamless integration with other government systems 

Key Comparison Table (As of November 2025) 

Aspect	EP	S Pass	DP	WP
Salary (Min)	SGD 5,000	SGD 3,300	Sponsor-dependent (min SGD 6,000)	Sector-specific
Qualifications	Degree/Professional	Vocational/Skilled	N/A	Basic/None
Quota	No quota	20% of workforce, also required to calculate DRC (Dependency Ratio Ceiling)	N/A	Sector-specific
Work Rights	Full	Full	Conditional	Sector-restricted
Duration	Up to 2 years	Up to 2 years	Duration of sponsor	1-2 years

Tips for A Smooth Application 

1. Ensure Compliance: Verify all eligibility criteria before applying 

2. Complete Documentation: Provide comprehensive supporting documents to avoid delays 

3. Use myMOM Portal: Leverage digital tools for faster processing 

4. Monitor Status: Track applications through the portal regularly 

5. Plan Ahead: Allow sufficient processing time before employment start dates 

   
   

Singapore's work pass system balances the need for foreign talent with local employment protection. Whether you're an employer seeking skilled workers or a professional looking to work in Singapore, understanding these four pass categories is essential for a smooth application process. The government's digital initiatives continue to streamline procedures, making it easier than ever to navigate the system. 

K.Merleone makes securing your Singapore work or residence pass simple and stress-free. Whether you’re a professional chasing new opportunities or an employer hiring global talent, our expert team guides you through every step ensuring fast, accurate, and compliant applications. With K.Merleone, getting the right pass isn’t just easy, it’s effortless. 

Note: This article provides a general overview based on Singapore's Ministry of Manpower (MOM) guidelines and regulations. For the most current and specific information, please visit the official MOM website at www.mom.gov.sg or contact MOM directly. Regulations and requirements may change, so always verify details before submitting applications. 

Sources Referenced: 

• Ministry of Manpower (MOM), Singapore - www.mom.gov.sg 

• Singapore Employment Pass, S Pass, and Work Permit Guidelines 

• myMOM Portal Documentation 

• COMPASS Framework for Foreign Worker Management