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Work passes

Singaporean Singapore Work Passes

The passes that authorise foreign nationals to work in Singapore. A work pass is separate from an entry visa and from a visit pass, neither of which permits work.

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Important information

Immigration rules and fees can change. This information is for general guidance only and does not constitute legal advice. Always check the latest requirements on the official Singapore government website before you apply.
On this page
Official name
Work Passes
Route type
Work
Issued by
Ministry of Manpower (MOM)
Work passes are administered by MOM, not ICA.
Employment Pass — min. salary
From S$5,600/month
For professionals, managers and executives; higher minimums apply in the financial sector and rise with age.
S Pass — min. salary
From S$3,300/month
For skilled associate professionals and technicians; subject to quota and levy.
Where to apply
MOM (by the employer)
The employer or appointed agent applies on the candidate's behalf.

Who can apply

  • Foreign nationals authorised to work in Singapore

What you can do

  • Work in Singapore under the conditions of the relevant work pass

Requirements

  • Every foreigner intending to work in Singapore must hold a valid work pass before starting work.
  • Employment Pass — for foreign professionals, managers, executives and technicians earning at least S$5,600 a month (more in the financial sector).
  • S Pass — for skilled associate professionals and technicians earning at least S$3,300 a month; subject to a dependency-ratio quota and monthly levy.
  • Work Permit — for semi-skilled workers in sectors such as construction, manufacturing, marine shipyard, process and services (includes the Foreign Domestic Worker permit); subject to quota and levy.
  • The correct pass depends on the candidate's salary, qualifications, role and sector — the employer is responsible for holding a valid pass for each worker.

How to apply

The employer (or an appointed employment agent) applies to MOM for the appropriate pass. MOM decides eligibility case by case based on salary, qualifications and the applicable framework (e.g. COMPASS points for Employment Pass), quota and levy.

Documents you may need

  • Candidate's passport biodata page.
  • Educational and professional qualification certificates (with translations where needed).
  • The candidate's declaration form for the Employment Pass or S Pass, where required.
  • Company/employer particulars and business registration details.

Frequently asked questions

  • It depends on your salary, qualifications and role: the Employment Pass for higher-earning professionals and managers, the S Pass for mid-skilled staff, and the Work Permit for semi-skilled workers in specific sectors. MOM assesses each application against the relevant framework.

Official sources

For the most accurate and up-to-date information, always refer to the official government sources.

Verified against official gov.uk sources · last reviewed 2026-08-21. Information only — not legal advice.

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