Singapore's work-pass framework is filtered through the COMPASS points system, layered on top of minimum salary floors that increase each September. The Employment Pass is the flagship route for professionals; the Overseas Networks & Expertise Pass targets top earners and specialists; EntrePass and Tech.Pass cover founders and elite tech talent. Permanent residency is discretionary, granted through the Ministry of Manpower's PTS scheme or a talent-based route.
How the immigration system works
The Ministry of Manpower (MOM) administers all work passes and PR. The Immigration & Checkpoints Authority (ICA) handles visit passes, Long-Term Visit Passes and citizenship. Employers typically apply for passes on behalf of workers. Personal income tax tops out at 24% and there is no capital gains tax.
Who Singapore is best for
Skilled professionals earning SGD 5,600+/month (higher for financial services)
Senior specialists and top earners (SGD 30,000+/month) via ONE Pass
Founders raising capital or running venture-backed startups (EntrePass)
Elite technology talent (Tech.Pass)
Family members of pass holders (Dependant's Pass, LTVP)
Visa pathways
6 pathways into Singapore
Every pathway below is a complete guide — eligibility, step-by-step process, documents, timelines, costs, risks and common mistakes. Nothing is hidden behind extra clicks.
Pathway 1 · work
Employment Pass (EP)
Medium
The main work pass for foreign professionals earning at least SGD 5,600/month and scoring 40+ on the COMPASS points system.
3–8 weeks
SGD 105 (application) + SGD 225 (issuance)
5 required documents
Who qualifies
Managers, executives, specialists and technicians with a Singapore job offer meeting the salary floor and COMPASS threshold.
Eligibility requirements
Monthly salary ≥ SGD 5,600 (SGD 6,200 in financial services)
COMPASS: at least 40/100 across salary, qualifications, diversity, local employment support
Recognised degree or professional qualification
Employer sponsorship in Singapore
Step-by-step process
1Employer submits EP application via MyMOM portal
2MOM issues in-principle approval (IPA)
3Enter Singapore on IPA and complete medical
4Attend biometrics and collect EP card
Documents you'll need
Passport
Degree certificate + transcripts
CV
Employer offer letter
Company ACRA profile
Common mistakes
Underestimating COMPASS — a strong salary doesn't offset weak qualifications or diversity scores
Applying with an unaccredited degree that MOM won't recognise
2-year self-sponsored pass for elite tech founders, leaders and experts, letting holders start companies, work, mentor and invest freely.
8–10 weeks
SGD 225 (issuance)
4 required documents
Who qualifies
Applicants meeting two of: fixed monthly salary SGD 22,500+, 5+ years leading a tech product team, or 5+ years leading a company valued USD 500M+ or with USD 30M+ funding.
Eligibility requirements
Meet 2 of 3 Tech.Pass criteria
Passport
Step-by-step process
1Submit via EDB portal
2EDB assesses achievements
3Receive letter of eligibility and issue pass
Documents you'll need
Passport
Payslips
Employer/investor references
Product/company track record
Common mistakes
Lacking documentary evidence of the tech leadership track record
Create a compliant Singapore · Employment Pass (EP) photo with ImageGates
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Singapore's main work pass for foreign professionals earning at least SGD 5,600/month (SGD 6,200 in financial services) and scoring 40+ on the COMPASS points system. Employers apply for it and it is renewable in 2–3 year blocks.
Can I obtain permanent residence in Singapore?
Yes. Most PR is granted through the Professionals/Technical Personnel and Skilled Workers (PTS) scheme after time on an EP or S Pass. Approval is discretionary and typically takes 6–12 months to assess.
How does COMPASS scoring work?
COMPASS awards up to 20 points each for salary, qualifications, workforce diversity and local employment support. Bonus points are available for shortage occupations and strategic investments. You need 40 to qualify.
Can my spouse work on a Dependant's Pass?
No. As of May 2021, spouses on a DP need their own EP, S Pass or Work Permit to work — the previous Letter of Consent was scrapped.
How much tax will I pay?
Personal income tax is progressive up to 24% for residents. There is no capital gains tax and dividends are tax-exempt for residents.
Do I need a job offer for the ONE Pass?
No. The ONE Pass is self-sponsored — you can work for multiple employers or start your own company for 5 years.
How long until Singapore citizenship?
Typically 2+ years as a PR before you can apply, with citizenship granted at MOM/ICA discretion. Singapore does not recognise dual citizenship, so applicants must renounce their previous nationality.
Official government resources
Verify before you apply
Immigration rules change frequently. Always confirm the latest requirements on the official portal.
