Understanding Employment Pass vs. S Pass vs. Work Permit in Singapore: A Simple Guide for Employers
If you’re planning to hire foreign workers in Singapore, it’s essential to understand the differences between the Employment Pass (EP), S Pass, and Work Permit schemes. Choosing the correct type of work visa ensures regulatory compliance and smoother operations for your company.
In this article, we break down the key differences, eligibility criteria, and common use cases to help employers make informed hiring decisions.
1. Employment Pass (EP)
Who it’s for:
• Foreign professionals, managers, and executives
Key Criteria:
• Minimum monthly salary of SGD 5,000 (as of 2023, higher for older candidates or in financial sector)
• Recognised educational qualifications and relevant work experience
• Job role must be at a managerial, executive, or specialist level
Processing Time: Around 3-8 weeks
Typical Industries: Tech, finance, consulting, startups
2. S Pass
Who it’s for:
• Mid-level skilled staff (e.g. technicians, supervisors)
Key Criteria:
• Minimum monthly salary of SGD 3,150 (as of 2023, increasing progressively)
• Diploma qualification or equivalent
• Subject to a quota (capped % of workforce) and levy (monthly fee)
Processing Time: Around 3-8 weeks
Typical Industries: Manufacturing, logistics, F&B, retail, services
2. Work Permit
Who it’s for:
• Semi-skilled or unskilled foreign workers
Key Criteria:
• No minimum salary (depends on industry and source country agreement)
• Education not a key factor
• Strictly subject to sector-specific quotas and levies
• Only for certain approved countries depending on sector
Processing Time: Around 1-3 weeks
Typical Industries: Construction, marine, cleaning, F&B, manufacturing
Choosing the Right Pass: What Employers Should Consider
1. Job Role & Skills Level
Match the pass type to the actual scope and requirements of the job.
2. Company Quota Limits
S Passes and Work Permits are subject to strict sector-based quotas.
3. Budget & Ongoing Costs
Consider salary thresholds, levies, and the cost of managing compliance.
4. Pass Duration & Renewability
EP and S Pass are generally valid for 1-2 years and renewable if conditions are met.
5. Application Complexity
Some applications require justification of role suitability and salary benchmarking under the COMPASS framework (for EP).
How Profectant Can Help
At Profectant, we assist businesses of all sizes with:
- Assessing pass eligibility and quota impact
- Preparing and submitting EP, S Pass, and Work Permit applications
- Advising on strategic workforce planning
- Handling renewals, appeals, and MOM queries
With our support, you can focus on growing your team while we manage the paperwork.
Need help hiring foreign workers in Singapore? Speak to our HR and visa advisory team for a no-obligation consultation.
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