Navigating Employment Pass Application Process in Singapore
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Singapore stands out as a beacon of opportunity in the global employment landscape, attracting a plethora of talents from around the world. Its strategic location, political stability, vibrant economy, and welcoming business environment make it an irresistible hub for expatriates seeking career advancement.
At the heart of this cosmopolitan workforce mobility is the Singapore Employment Pass (EP) – a pivotal gateway for professionals aiming to embark on their career journey in the Lion City.
Navigating the Employment Pass application process, however, can be a complex undertaking requiring meticulous planning and understanding.
This guide aims to break down the essentials of the application process, ensuring a smoother journey for prospective applicants.
It also highlights how SAVVY PLATFORM, with its comprehensive suite of services, can assist in this critical phase.
Understanding the Employment Pass
Before diving into the application process, it's essential to grasp what the Employment Pass entails.
Essentially, the EP is a work visa that allows foreign professionals, managers, executives and technicians to work in Singapore.
Candidates must have a job offer in Singapore, meet the minimum salary threshold, and possess acceptable qualifications.
Eligibility Criteria
1. Job Offer: Applicants must have a job offer in a managerial, executive, or specialized job.
2. Salary Threshold: As per the latest guidelines, the minimum salary for young graduates from reputable institutions must be at least SGD 5,000 (higher for more experienced candidates).
Fixed monthly salary comparable to the top one-third of local PMET (Professionals, Managers, Executives and Technicians) salaries, starting from $5,000 and increasing progressively with age, up to $10,500 for those in the mid-40s.
Candidates in the financial services sector need higher salaries to qualify:
At least $5,500 for the financial services sector (increases progressively with age from age 23, up to $11,500 at age 45 and above.
From 1 January 2025, the EP qualifying salary for new applications will be revised to at least $5,600, and at least $6,200 for the financial services sector.
This revised EP qualifying salary will also apply to the renewal of EPs that are expiring from 1 January 2026.
3. Qualifications: A good university degree, professional qualifications, or specialized skills.
4. Point-based Assessment:
Unless exempted, candidates should pass the points-based Complementarity Assessment Framework (COMPASS).
Candidates who do not meet stage 1 will not be eligible for an EP, regardless of the points they would have scored under COMPASS.
The 2-stage eligibility framework applies to new EP applications from 1 September 2023, and renewals of EPs expiring from 1 September 2024.
To pass this stage, the application needs to earn 40 points on the points-based COMPASS framework.
There are four foundational and two bonus criteria.
Each criterion can earn 20 points.
Foundational COMPASS criteria are as follows:
C1. Salary.
This criterion benchmarks the candidate’s salary against the local PMET salaries in your sector.
It is different from the EP qualifying salary, which is the minimum bar that candidates need to pass to obtain an EP.
It is important to mention that candidates who do not meet the EP qualifying salary will not be eligible for an EP, regardless of the points they would have scored under the C1 salary benchmark.
C2. Qualifications.
This criterion awards points to candidates based on their qualifications.
Earning points from this criterion requires the submission of verification proof together with your qualifications in your EP application.
Otherwise, you do not need to submit your qualifications and verification proof.
C3. Diversity.
This criterion awards more points to applications where the candidate’s nationality forms a small share of the firm’s PMET employees. A diverse mix of nationalities enriches firms with new ideas and networks, and contributes to a more inclusive and resilient workforce.
If your organisation employs fewer than 25 PMETs, your application will score 10 points by default.
If there are more than 25 PMETs, your points will depend on the share of your nationality among your organisation’s PMETs.
?C4. Support for local employment.
This criterion recognises organisations that create opportunities for the local workforce and build complementary teams comprising both local and foreign professionals.
If your organisation employs fewer than 25 PMETs, your application will score 10 points by default.
If there are at least 25 PMETs, your points will depend on your organisation’s local PMET share relative to its sector.
The two bonus criteria of the COMPASS framework are as follows:
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C5. Skills Bonus (Shortage Occupation List).
This bonus recognises jobs that require highly specialised skills, which are in shortage in the local workforce. The SOL is determined by a robust evaluation process that takes into account industry needs and local workforce development efforts.
C6. Strategic Economic Priorities Bonus.
This bonus recognises organisations that are either:
-?????? Undertaking ambitious investment, innovation and internationalisation activities in partnership with economic agencies; or
-?????? Endorsed by National Trades Union Congress (NTUC) as strong partners on company and workforce transformation activities.
Singapore seeks to anchor and grow firms that can contribute to the innovative capacity of our economy, enhance our global linkages, and strengthen our economic competitiveness. Such firms should also have the scale or potential to provide good jobs for locals.
As every application has its own unique set of merits, applicants are highly recommended to seek professional advice when preparing and submitting their Employment Pass application to the Ministry of Manpower.
Key Documents Required
Ensuring you have all the necessary documents is crucial for a smooth application process.
Step-by-Step Application Process
Navigating the Employment Pass application involves several critical steps, from submission to approval and collection.
Submission of Application
Applications can be submitted online via the Ministry of Manpower's (MOM) website or manually for certain cases. It's advisable to ensure all information provided is accurate and that you meet all eligibility criteria before submitting.
Processing Time and Approval
Online applications typically take around three weeks, while manual applications can take up to eight weeks. If successful, an In-Principle Approval (IPA) letter will be issued.
Issuance of the Pass
Upon receiving the IPA, the applicant must relocate to Singapore to have the pass issued. They will need to undergo a medical examination (if required) and provide additional documents, such as the Disembarkation/Embarkation card.
Challenges Faced by Applicants
How SAVVY PLATFORM Can Support EP applications.
SAVVY PLATFORM is equipped to guide businesses and professionals through Singapore's intricate Employment Pass application process, embodying its goal to showcase Singapore as a top destination for business and professional growth.
We directly work with a licensed Employment Agency that is entitled to process EP applications for high-earning candidates.
SAVVY Start (Incorporation of Singapore Company)
For entrepreneurs seeking to establish their ventures in Singapore, SAVVY Start offers seamless company incorporation services, ensuring compliance and eligibility for Employment Pass applications.
SAVVY Secretary
Navigating statutory compliance and managing administrative paperwork is made effortless with the SAVVY Secretary, allowing businesses to focus on strategic objectives without being bogged down by administrative burdens.
SAVVY Smart
With a keen understanding of the latest regulations and best practices in Employment Pass applications, SAVVY Smart ensures a streamlined process, minimizing the risk of delays or rejections.
Discover More About Us
At SAVVY PLATFORM, we cater to a diverse clientele, from startups to multinational conglomerates, providing expert business administration services in Singapore.
Our services are designed to free our clients from the complexities of administrative tasks, allowing them to concentrate on driving their business forward.
For the equivalent cost of hiring a novice staff member, our clients gain access to a team of seasoned professionals dedicated to their success.
Discover more about how we can assist with your Employment Pass application and other business needs by visiting our website or reaching out directly.
Conclusion
The journey to securing an Employment Pass in Singapore, while challenging, can be significantly streamlined with the right support and guidance.
Understanding the eligibility criteria, preparing the necessary documents, and adhering to the application process are paramount.
For professionals and companies aiming to navigate these waters, partnering with a knowledgeable ally like SAVVY PLATFORM can be invaluable.
With our comprehensive suite of services tailored to meet the needs of businesses across the spectrum, SAVVY PLATFORM stands ready to facilitate a seamless Employment Pass application process, underscoring its commitment to enhancing Singapore's appeal as a global destination for talent and enterprise.
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