Understanding work passes in Singapore

Navigating the range of work passes to assess which ones are best for you and your family can be challenging.

We’re here to help! Learn which passes are most suitable for you below.

Employment Pass (EP)
Personalised Employment Pass (PEP)
Entrepass
Tech.Pass
Overseas Networks & Expertise Pass
Who is this ideal for?
Foreign professionals, managers and executives
Current EP holders or overseas foreign professionals earning a high salary
Entrepreneurs keen to develop an innovative/ tech startup in Singapore
Established tech entrepreneurs, leaders or technical experts with experience in established or fast-growing tech companies
Top talent with deep skills and expertise across all sectors including business, technology, science, engineering, arts, sports and academia.
Do you qualify?
• Foreign professionals with a job offer in Singapore

• Earn a fixed monthly salary of at least S$5,600* (increases progressively with age, up to S$10,700 for candidate in mid-40s)

• Have acceptable qualifications (a university degree, professional qualifications or specialised skills)

*S$6,200 for the financial services sector. For EP renewal applications, the new qualifying salary will only take effect on Jan 1, 2026.
• Overseas candidates: Fixed monthly salary drawn within the last 6 months was at least S$22,500
Must meet both conditions below:

• Have started, or intend to start, a private limited company registered in Singapore, that possesses innovative technologies or is venture-backed

• Meet the criteria as an Entrepreneur, Innovator or Investor
Must meet both condition below:

• Have a last drawn fixed monthly salary (in the last 1 year) of at least S$22,500

• Have at least 5 cumulative years of experience in a leading role in
(i) A tech company with a valuation/market capitalisation of at least US$500mil or at least US$30mil funding raised or
(ii) A tech venture capital firm with at least US$500mil in assets under management (AUM).
• Earn fixed monthly salary of at least S$30,000 in the last 1 year

• Overseas candidates will also need to demonstrate that they were employed or have a job offer from an established company (company should have a market capitalisation of at least US$500 million or an annual revenue of at least US$200 million)

• Individuals with outstanding achievement in arts, sports, science, technology and academia may also qualify even if they do not meet the salary criterion
What are some highlights of the pass?
Open to professionals seeking employment in any industry
• Not tied to a company; more flexibility to move between employers.

• Not subject to the Complementarity Assessment Framework (COMPASS).
Able to own and operate an innovative/ tech startup in Singapore
Able to concurrently startand operate one or more tech companies, and be employed by one or more Singapore-based companies at any one time
A personalised 5-year work pass allowing holders to concurrently start, operate, and work for multiple companies at any one time. Spouses also will be able to work on a Letter of Consent. Pass holders will not be subject to the Complementarity Assessment Framework (COMPASS)
How long will the pass be valid for?
• Up to 2 years (tied to employment with sponsoring company)

• Up to 5 years for experienced professionals in tech occupations on the COMPASS Shortage Occupation List, earning a fixed monthly salary of at least S$10,700. Subject to COMPASS diversity criterion.
Up to 3 years
1 year
Up to 2 years
5 years
Is the pass renewable?

Yes; up to 3 years, subject to prevailing eligibility criteria

No

Yes; first renewal is for 1 year; subsequent renewals for 2 years, subject to prevailing eligibility criteria

Yes; subject to prevailing eligibility criteria based on business spending and local employment

Yes; subsequent renewals of 5 years, subject to meeting renewal criteria
Can you bring your family to Singapore?

Yes; with a minimum salary of S$6,000 for spouses and children and S$12,000 for parents.

Yes

Yes; subject to prevailing eligibility criteria based on business spending and local employment

Yes

Yes
How long is the processing time of an average case?
10 business days
8 weeks
8 weeks
8 weeks
4 weeks
Who applies for the pass
Employer
Individual pass candidate
Individual pass candidate
Individual pass candidate
Individual pass candidate
Application

For Students and Young Undergrads: Work Holiday Pass (WHP)

Singapore’s Work Holiday Pass (WHP) invites eligible students and young graduates to live, work, and explore in one of the world’s most dynamic cities for up to six months. It’s a unique chance to gain real-world experience, grow your network, and immerse yourself in a vibrant culture — all while building your resume. If you’re an adventurous spirit looking to take the next big step, this could be your launchpad.

Key benefits:

  • No minimum salary threshold
  • Stay and work here for 6 months
  • No employer or agency required – apply for the pass yourself
  • Fast application process of only 3 weeks

Intrigued? Click here to apply today.

You may also find these guides useful as you consider a move to Singapore:

Read stories about others who made the move: