S Pass Application Made Easy: Stepwise Process and Tips for Singapore 2025

Singapore: A Magnet for Global Talent in Asia

Singapore continues to be a global magnet for skilled professionals seeking vibrant career opportunities in Asia. While the Employment Pass is tailored for foreign professionals in executive, managerial, or specialised roles, such as regional managers, consultants, or software engineers, typically requiring higher qualifications and salaries. In contrast, the S Pass caters to mid-level skilled workers like technicians, supervisors, and support specialists who may not meet EP criteria but offer essential technical skills and industry experience. This guide simplifies the S Pass process into actionable steps for both applicants and employers, ensuring accuracy, compliance, and success.

What is the S Pass?

The S Pass is a work visa issued by Singapore’s Ministry of Manpower (MOM) for mid-level skilled foreign professionals. It is designed for individuals taking up roles in key sectors like manufacturing, construction, IT, and healthcare. Unlike the EP, which targets higher-salaried executives, the S Pass serves as a channel for businesses to access essential technical expertise, helping to propel innovation and sustain economic momentum.

An S Pass is typically valid for up to two years and is renewable, provided the pass holder and employer continue to meet the prevailing eligibility conditions. The pass is tied to a specific employer, meaning the holder cannot switch jobs without a new application from the new employer.

Step 1: Confirm Eligibility

Before applying, it is crucial for both applicants and employers to verify eligibility. MOM evaluates each application based on a combination of salary, qualifications, work experience, and the employer’s adherence to quota and levy regulations.

For Applicants:

1. Salary Requirements

In 2025, the criteria, especially for salary, have become much more transparent and formulaic. We now know that the qualifying salary for an S Pass holder increases progressively with age, benchmarked against the wages of local Associate Professionals and Technicians.

• From 1 September 2025, the minimum qualifying salary for new S Pass applicants will be $3,300.
• For the Financial Services sector, this minimum will be higher at $3,800.
• These salary thresholds will increase with age, up to $4,950 for a candidate in their mid-40s in the general sector, and $5,850 for the Financial Services sector.

Example: A 35-year-old IT support specialist applying for a role in 2025 must receive a salary that aligns with their age and experience. Employers are strongly encouraged to use the Self-Assessment Tool (SAT) on the MOM website to determine the specific qualifying salary required for their candidate. Using the SAT is a critical first step to prevent an immediate rejection based on salary.

2. Educational Qualifications
Applicants generally need a degree or a diploma. Technical certificates, such as courses completed over at least one year of full-time study, may also be considered. Institutions must be recognised, and credentials from certain countries (e.g., China) require verification from specified bodies. Documents not in English must be submitted with a certified translation.

3. Relevant Work Experience
A significant track record of relevant work experience is essential. The applicant’s skills and experience must directly correspond to the job requirements.

For Employers:

1. Registered Singapore Entity: The company must be a registered Singapore entity with a valid ACRA profile.
2. S Pass Quota (Dependency Ratio Ceiling – DRC): Companies must comply with the S Pass quota. The proportion of S Pass holders cannot exceed:
   • 10% of the total workforce in the Services sector.
   • 15% of the total workforce in the Manufacturing, Construction, Process, and Marine Shipyard sectors.
3. Fair Consideration Framework (FCF): Employers must first advertise the job on the MyCareersFuture portal and fairly consider all candidates. The advertisement must be open for at least 14 consecutive days before an S Pass application can be submitted. This requirement is exempted for companies with fewer than 10 employees or if the job pays a fixed monthly salary of $22,500 and above.

Step 2: Understand Employer Obligations

Hiring foreign workers in Singapore comes with significant legal responsibilities.

Levy Obligations: Employers must pay a monthly levy for each S Pass holder.

• The Basic/Tier 1 levy (within quota) is currently $550 and will increase to $650 from 1 September 2025.
• The Tier 2 levy (above quota) is $650.

Medical Insurance Requirements: It is mandatory for employers to provide medical insurance with a minimum coverage of at least $60,000 per year. From 1 July 2025, an enhanced scheme will be fully implemented, mandating higher claim limits and standardized co-payment structures to provide more comprehensive protection.

Failure to comply with these obligations can lead to penalties, including the suspension of work pass privileges.

Step 3: Prepare the Required Documents

Accurate and complete documentation is critical for a smooth application process.

For Applicants:

• Passport biodata page (with at least 6 months validity).
• Certified copies of educational certificates and transcripts.
• A detailed CV outlining relevant work experience.

For Employers:

• Company’s latest business profile or ACRA registration details.
• A formal job offer letter specifying the role, salary, and duties.
• Proof of FCF job advertisement (retain for audit if requested).

Step 4: Submit the Application

Applications must be submitted online by the employer or a licensed employment agent.

1. Log in to the myMOM Portal using a valid CorpPass.
2. Fill in the application form accurately.
3. Upload all required documents in the specified format.
4. Pay the non-refundable application fee of $105.

Step 5: Monitor Application Status

The processing timeline can vary. For most online applications, a decision or update is provided within 10 business days. The status can be tracked via the myMOM Portal.

Approved: An In-Principle Approval (IPA) letter is issued, valid for 60 days.

Pending: MOM may request additional documents or clarification.

Rejected: The employer can appeal within three months, addressing the specific reasons for rejection.

Step 6: Issue the S Pass

Once the IPA is received, the applicant can enter Singapore (if overseas).

1. Medical Examination: A medical examination is required if stated in the IPA letter.
2. Purchase Medical Insurance: Ensure the mandatory medical insurance is in place.
3. Issue the Pass: The employer must request to issue the pass via the myMOM Portal and pay the $100 issuance fee.
4. Register Biometrics: The applicant will receive a Notification Letter, which allows them to start work. They must then register their fingerprints and photo at an MOM Services Centre within the timeframe specified in the letter.

Step 7: Receive the S Pass Card

The physical S Pass card will be delivered to the employer’s registered address within five working days after the biometrics registration. This card serves as official proof of legal employment and identification.

S Pass Example | MOM

Step 8: Renewal and Cancellation

Renewal: Employers can apply to renew an S Pass up to six months before it expires. The renewal application will be assessed against the prevailing eligibility criteria at that time. Note that the new 2025 salary benchmarks for new applicants will apply to renewals from 1 September 2026.

Cancellation: The employer must cancel the S Pass via the myMOM Portal within one week of the employee’s last day of service. The physical card must be returned to MOM.

Step 9: Bringing Family Members

S Pass holders who wish to bring their family members to Singapore must meet a higher salary threshold.

Dependant’s Pass (DP): Available for a legally married spouse and unmarried children under 21. The S Pass holder must earn a fixed monthly salary of at least $6,000.

Long-Term Visit Pass (LTVP): Available for a common-law spouse, step-children, or handicapped children. The S Pass holder must earn a fixed monthly salary of at least $6,000.

Sponsoring Parents: S Pass holders cannot sponsor their parents for an LTVP. This option is only available for Employment Pass or ONE Pass holders earning at least $12,000 per month.

Step 10: Appealing a Rejection

If an application is rejected, the employer may file an appeal within three months. A successful appeal typically requires providing new information that directly addresses the reasons for rejection, such as a higher salary offer, additional certifications, or a more detailed explanation of the job scope.

Additional Insights for S Pass Applicants

S Pass vs. Employment Pass (EP)

The Employment Pass (EP) is designed for highly skilled professionals in executive or specialised roles. For 2025, new EP applicants must earn a minimum of $5,600 per month (or $6,200 in the Financial Services sector), with the amount increasing progressively with age. Unlike the S Pass, the EP is not subject to a quota or monthly levies.

Switching Employers

An S Pass is tied to a specific employer and cannot be transferred. If an S Pass holder wishes to change jobs, the new employer must submit a completely new S Pass application. The previous pass must be cancelled before the new one can be issued.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Salary Mismatch: Offering a salary below the age-specific threshold. A common mistake is failing to use the SAT to confirm the correct minimum qualifying salary for the candidate’s profile.
2. Incomplete Documents: Submitting blurry scans, unverified qualifications, or missing translations.
3. Quota Issues: Applying when the company has already reached its Dependency Ratio Ceiling (DRC).
4. Ignoring FCF: Failing to advertise the job on MyCareersFuture for the required 14-day period.

Final S Pass Application Checklist

Use this checklist as a final review to ensure all requirements are met before submission.

For Applicants:

• [ ] Passport: Must be valid for at least six months.
• [ ] Qualifications: Recognised and verified educational certificates are ready.
• [ ] Translations: Certified translations are prepared for any documents not in English.
• [ ] CV/Resume: Updated CV detailing relevant work experience is complete.
• [ ] Supporting Documents: Letters of employment or recommendations are available if needed.

For Employers:

• [ ] Portal Access: Hold a valid CorpPass with access to the myMOM Portal.
• [ ] FCF Advertisement: Job has been advertised on MyCareersFuture.sg for at least 14 days (unless exempted for having fewer than 10 employees or a very high salary).
• [ ] Quota Check: S Pass quota availability has been confirmed.
• [ ] Budgeting: Funds for levies and the mandatory medical insurance are allocated.
• [ ] Job Offer: A clear, detailed job offer letter has been issued to the applicant.
• [ ] ACRA Profile: The company’s latest business profile is ready for submission if required.

Note: Always refer to the latest guidelines on the Ministry of Manpower’s official website for the most current information.

How The Immigration People (TIP) Can Help

Applying for an S Pass can involve several steps and detailed requirements. The Immigration People (TIP) offers practical support to simplify this process. From reviewing your eligibility to preparing documents, handling submission, and even assisting with appeals, our experienced team is here to guide you. Whether you’re an individual or an employer, TIP provides reliable, personalised help that takes the stress out of your application journey.

Your Pathway to a Successful S Pass Application

Applying for an S Pass in Singapore doesn’t have to be daunting. With the right guidance and understanding, both individuals and employers can manage the process effectively. This guide aims to equip you with the essential knowledge to navigate the application confidently. Should you need professional support, The Immigration People is well-positioned to assist you with practical advice and reliable service every step of the way.