Employment Pass Application in Singapore: Steps, Documents and Fees

An Employment Pass application is submitted by the employer or an appointed employment agent. This guide explains how to prepare the application, distinguish approval from issuance and plan the candidate’s start date.

Application for Employment Pass in Singapore

Check EP eligibility before preparing the application

EP candidates must meet the age-adjusted qualifying salary and, unless exempt, score at least 40 points under COMPASS. The current starting salary is S$5,600 outside financial services and S$6,200 in financial services, for candidates aged 23 or below. Older candidates need higher salaries.

For new applications from 1 January 2027, these starting amounts rise to S$6,000 and S$6,600 respectively. The new levels also apply to renewals of passes expiring from 1 January 2028. Check the age-specific figures and exemptions on MOM’s EP eligibility page.

A degree is not a universal prerequisite: candidates can meet COMPASS through other criteria without qualification points. Use the Self-Assessment Tool (SAT) with accurate candidate and employer information. A positive assessment is not an approval.

Prepare the documents and employer information

Start with MOM’s document checklist. This includes the candidate’s passport particulars page and the company’s latest ACRA business profile. Qualifications and verification proof are needed when claiming COMPASS qualification points. Additional requirements depend on the occupation and application.

For non-English documents, submit the original together with an English translation. Review names, dates and passport details for consistency before uploading.

As a practical preparation step, keep the role description, salary breakdown, employment history and supporting records in one folder. Separate documents required by MOM from additional information that helps your employer or agent understand the case.

Application steps, fees and processing

1. Before submission: check eligibility, meet applicable fair-consideration advertising requirements and obtain the candidate’s written consent.
2. Submit: the employer or agent applies through MOM’s EP eService and pays S$105.
3. Track the result: online applications are processed or receive an update within 10 business days. Requests for further information can extend the timeline.
4. Read the IPA: approval normally provides six months to enter Singapore and issue the pass. The letter specifies whether a medical examination is required.
5. Issue the pass: with the candidate in Singapore, complete the issuance requirements and pay S$225, plus S$30 for a Multiple Journey Visa if applicable.
6. Follow the notification letter: it authorises work after issuance and states whether fingerprint and photo registration is required.

See MOM’s application procedure for the relevant route, including overseas companies using local sponsorship. Government fees are separate from professional service fees.

Plan the start date around issuance

Do not treat a signed offer, application submission or IPA as permission to start work. Agree with HR who will track the approval, arrange any required examination and complete issuance. Build time into relocation arrangements for outstanding documents.

Bringing family members

Family-pass eligibility is separate from EP eligibility. A fixed monthly salary of at least S$6,000 can support eligible family members, with different categories for a Dependant’s Pass and LTVP. Sponsoring parents requires at least S$12,000. Conditions and exceptions apply; use MOM’s family-pass guide to identify the correct route.

EP or S Pass?

Do not choose a pass solely by whether the candidate has a degree. Review the role, current eligibility and employer requirements. S Pass hiring involves quota and levy obligations. Our S Pass eligibility guide and work-pass comparison explain the differences.

Frequently asked questions

Can I submit my own EP application as an employee?

The employer or appointed employment agent submits it. Coordinate your supporting information with the person handling the application.

Can I use my current EP to join another employer?

A change of employer requires a new pass application. Coordinate the old pass cancellation and new pass issuance. Our job-loss and work-pass guide explains the importance of valid stay during a transition.

Are medical examinations and biometrics always mandatory?

Follow the IPA and notification letter. These requirements are not identical for every applicant.

Help with your EP application

TIP can help review application requirements, organise supporting documents and coordinate the application process. See our work-pass application services for assistance.