A Guide to S Pass Formalities: What to Do After Receiving Your IPA

Receiving your In-Principle Approval (IPA) for your S Pass application is an exciting step toward starting your career in Singapore—a dynamic city known for its vibrant culture, world-class infrastructure, and diverse work opportunities. But before you can fully immerse yourself in life here, there are several crucial steps you must complete within the validity period stated on your IPA letter.

Employers and employees alike must be aware of these formalities to ensure compliance with the Ministry of Manpower (MOM) regulations. Missing any of these requirements could lead to delays or even the rejection of your pass issuance, which could disrupt your plans. So, what exactly do you need to do after receiving your IPA? Here’s a step-by-step guide to completing your application smoothly and starting your journey in Singapore.

Understanding Your IPA Letter

The In-Principle Approval (IPA) letter is an official document issued by MOM that confirms the approval of your S Pass application. It outlines essential details such as:

• The validity period of the IPA
• Medical examination requirements
• Additional documents needed for pass issuance
• Any financial bonds (if applicable)

This letter also serves as a temporary visa for entry into Singapore if you are applying from overseas. If you’re already in Singapore, it remains a necessary document for completing the formalities.

Step 1: Medical Examination and Health Declaration

Before your S Pass can be issued, you may be required to undergo a medical check-up. This is particularly important for applicants who are entering Singapore for the first time.

The medical examination usually includes:

• General physical check-up
• Chest X-ray
• Blood tests for infectious diseases (such as tuberculosis and HIV)

The medical report must be submitted to MOM through the online portal or by your employer’s designated agency. If your IPA letter states that a medical examination is not required, you can proceed to the next step immediately.

Step 2: Scheduling the S Pass Issuance

Your employer or employment agent must apply for the issuance of your S Pass before your IPA expires. The application can be completed online via MOM’s Employment Pass (EP) Online portal.

During the issuance process, your employer will need to submit:

• Your passport details
• Medical examination results (if applicable)
• Payment of the required pass issuance fee
• Medical Insurance
• Security bond details (if required)

If all documents are in order, MOM will issue a notification letter, allowing the pass holder to begin work before receiving the physical S Pass card.

Step 3: Fingerprinting and Photo Registration (Biometrics) at MOM

After receiving the notification letter, you’ll need to book an appointment with MOM for biometric registration (if required). An appointment letter will only be issued once your booking is confirmed.

During this appointment, you will need to:

• Register your fingerprints
• Have your photograph taken
• Verify your personal details

First-time S Pass applicants must complete this step before they can receive their physical pass card. However, if you are renewing an existing S Pass and have already registered your biometrics previously, this step may not be necessary.

Step 4: Receiving Your S Pass Card

After successfully completing the biometric registration, your S Pass card will be issued. MOM typically delivers the card to your employer’s registered address within five working days.

At this stage, you are officially authorised to work in Singapore under the conditions set by your S Pass application. You must always carry your S Pass card as proof of your work status.

What Happens If There’s a Delay?

If your employer or agent does not complete the formalities before the IPA expires, your S Pass approval may be revoked. In such cases, they may need to reapply for an S Pass and go through the entire process again.

Additionally, if you fail your medical examination, your employer will need to assess whether an appeal is possible or if alternative employment options should be considered.

Common Mistakes to Avoid in the S Pass Process

Missing the IPA validity deadline: 

The IPA letter has an expiry date, and if your pass is not issued before then, you might lose the opportunity to work in Singapore. Make sure to start the process early.

Delaying the medical check-up: 

If a medical examination is required, schedule it as soon as possible to avoid processing delays.

Not registering for biometrics on time: 

First-time applicants must complete the fingerprint and photo registration at Employment Pass Service Center (EPSC) before receiving their pass.

Providing incorrect or incomplete documents: 

Ensure all required documents are submitted correctly to prevent any issues with pass issuance.

Renewing Your S Pass

If you are already working in Singapore and need to renew your S Pass, your employer must apply for renewal at least two months before the current pass expires. The renewal process is similar to the initial application but may not require a medical check-up or biometric registration if previously completed.

The renewal steps include:

• Submitting the renewal application online
• Paying the renewal fee
• Waiting for approval from MOM
• Receiving a new S Pass card if approved

Can You Start Work Before Receiving Your S Pass?

If you are applying for an S Pass from outside Singapore, you are not allowed to start work immediately upon arrival. You must first receive the official notification letter from MOM after your S Pass card has been issued. Only then can you begin employment in Singapore.

What Employers Should Know

Employers sponsoring foreign workers under the S Pass scheme must ensure compliance with MOM regulations. Some key responsibilities include:

• Ensuring the foreign employee meets eligibility criteria (e.g., salary, qualifications, experience)
• Providing accurate information in the S Pass application
• Completing all formalities before the IPA expires
• Monitoring pass renewals and employment status changes

Employers must also adhere to the foreign worker quota limits, as there are specific regulations regarding how many S Pass holders a company can employ based on its industry sector.

What Happens If an S Pass Application Is Rejected?

If your S Pass application is rejected, MOM will provide reasons for the rejection. Employers or applicants can submit an appeal with additional supporting documents. Appeals must be filed within three months of the rejection and should address any issues highlighted by MOM.

Urgent Reminder: Don’t Delay Your S Pass Formalities

Completing your S Pass application formalities on time will prevent complications and allow you to begin your employment in Singapore without unnecessary delays. Always coordinate with your employer to ensure that all requirements are met promptly. 

For a seamless and hassle-free process, stay updated with MOM’s guidelines, double-check your documents, and work closely with your employer. If you need further assistance, reach out to MOM or a trusted agency today to ensure your S Pass is issued without delay.