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Why Do You Need an Employment Pass in Singapore & How to Get One?

September 20, 2022
Swaraa Lodha
6 MIN

If you are just starting your career (or want to accelerate it), there is a high chance that Singapore has popped in your mind. It is an incredible country to work in and with the constant growth here, it is a dream location for many. However, there are many logistics you will need to take care of before you actually begin working in Singapore.

Imagine this.  

You’re just finishing your degree and want to kickstart your career in Singapore. You apply for jobs, go for interviews and get selected! You begin dreaming about your life here and then suddenly, logistics burst that bubble🙁. Getting a job is simply the first step, but it’s what comes after that that can be truly exhausting. More so when the main requirement is acquiring an employment pass.  

What is the pass?

The employment pass (EP) is a work pass issued by the Ministry of Manpower that lets you reside and work in Singapore. This pass is for foreign professionals, managers, employees, and owners/directors of Singaporean companies. It is a small card that acts as your identity card (IC) while in Singapore and lets you travel internationally without having to apply for entry visas each time you leave. The pass itself is usually valid for 12-24 months and can easily be renewed.  

Are you eligible to get an EP?

If you fulfil certain conditions, you can apply for an EP in Singapore.

  1. You need to be earning a salary of $4,500 or above per month. This needs to be in writing in your offer letter. This number usually applies to fresh graduates and people who have been in the workforce for just a little amount of time. If you are in higher/experienced positions, you will need to earn higher to quality for an EP.
  2. You will need to be in a specialized/executive/managerial position.
  3. You will need to have graduated from a reputable university. If you lack educational qualifications, your strong employment background and high salary can make up for that.  

If you fulfil the criteria above, you can go ahead and fill up your application for an EP and then hope that the EP gods approve it.  

What documents are required?

You will end up needing extra folders and hours to get all your documentation in order if you apply for an EP yourself. You will also have to pay extra attention to all details as missing out on anything could delay the process for you.  

  1. An EP Application Form (Endorsed by the employing company in Singapore)
  2. Latest resume/CV
  3. Highest education certificates/degrees
  4. Passport-size photographs taken in the last 3 months is needbe
  5. A copy of the front and back of your passport
  6. Offer letter
  7. Job description and description of the employing company’s activities
  8. Residential Address in Singapore
  9. Local mobile number (working and contactable) in Singapore  

For fresh graduates, you may need extra documents alongside the ones mentioned above:

  1. Original In-Principal Approval (IPA) letter you were sent before starting your degree in Singapore (if you studied here)
  2. Complete transcript (Entire candidature)

What is the process?

You can either apply online through the MOM portal or apply manually. Each method takes a different processing time (a few weeks). After this, if your application gets approved, you will receive an IPA letter that you can use to travel to and from Singapore, however, this is not the employment pass itself. You will then have to book an appointment at the Employment Pass Services Center in Singapore. This appointment will include identity photo taking and biometric procedures. You will then receive the physical Employment Pass soon after.  

What happens if you get rejected?

Although an employment pass is not completely difficult to get, your application can still be rejected for a multitude of reasons. If this does happen, there is a 3-month period in which an appeal can be made to the ministry of manpower. This can include sending additional documents and clarifications to help them make their decision. After this, the appeal can take a few weeks to get processed.

What other options do you have?

  • Student Pass: Student Pass holders are usually students studying in a full-time course in Singapore. To work part time or as an intern, this visa is enough as it allows you to work up to 16 hours a week.  
  • S Pass: This pass is an option for mid-level skilled workers who earn $3,000 or above monthly. The number will differ for workers in the financial sector or higher positions.  
  • Long Term Visit Pass (ICA): You can apply for this pass if you are a visitor holding a foreign/local educational degree and are looking for a job in Singapore. If you are successful in getting a job, you can then apply for an employment pass/S pass/Work pass.  

Story Time:

The day I got my offer letter from Doerscircle, I clearly remember, I finally breathed after 5 months. I was so nervous about applications and interviews, that when I finally got a job, I was so excited about, I could not believe it. But then came a reality check. The applications, the cancellations, the documentation, and a whole lot of hesitation. However, I had nothing to worry about. The company applied for my pass on my behalf and all I had to do was double check the documents and provide the right details. Within 3 weeks, I had completed my biometrics and had my physical pass with me. It was that simple!

Applying for a visa can be incredibly complicated and time consuming.

But we are here to make it easier for you.

From applying to appealing, at Doerscircle, we have a single solution for all the headaches you have to face during the employment pass journey.

Check out our solution now!

Why Do You Need an Employment Pass in Singapore & How to Get One?

If you are starting your career or want to accelerate it, Singapore must have popped in your mind. It is a dream location for many. However, there are many logistics you will need to take care of before you actually begin working in Singapore.
Published on
September 20, 2022

If you are just starting your career (or want to accelerate it), there is a high chance that Singapore has popped in your mind. It is an incredible country to work in and with the constant growth here, it is a dream location for many. However, there are many logistics you will need to take care of before you actually begin working in Singapore.

Imagine this.  

You’re just finishing your degree and want to kickstart your career in Singapore. You apply for jobs, go for interviews and get selected! You begin dreaming about your life here and then suddenly, logistics burst that bubble🙁. Getting a job is simply the first step, but it’s what comes after that that can be truly exhausting. More so when the main requirement is acquiring an employment pass.  

What is the pass?

The employment pass (EP) is a work pass issued by the Ministry of Manpower that lets you reside and work in Singapore. This pass is for foreign professionals, managers, employees, and owners/directors of Singaporean companies. It is a small card that acts as your identity card (IC) while in Singapore and lets you travel internationally without having to apply for entry visas each time you leave. The pass itself is usually valid for 12-24 months and can easily be renewed.  

Are you eligible to get an EP?

If you fulfil certain conditions, you can apply for an EP in Singapore.

  1. You need to be earning a salary of $4,500 or above per month. This needs to be in writing in your offer letter. This number usually applies to fresh graduates and people who have been in the workforce for just a little amount of time. If you are in higher/experienced positions, you will need to earn higher to quality for an EP.
  2. You will need to be in a specialized/executive/managerial position.
  3. You will need to have graduated from a reputable university. If you lack educational qualifications, your strong employment background and high salary can make up for that.  

If you fulfil the criteria above, you can go ahead and fill up your application for an EP and then hope that the EP gods approve it.  

What documents are required?

You will end up needing extra folders and hours to get all your documentation in order if you apply for an EP yourself. You will also have to pay extra attention to all details as missing out on anything could delay the process for you.  

  1. An EP Application Form (Endorsed by the employing company in Singapore)
  2. Latest resume/CV
  3. Highest education certificates/degrees
  4. Passport-size photographs taken in the last 3 months is needbe
  5. A copy of the front and back of your passport
  6. Offer letter
  7. Job description and description of the employing company’s activities
  8. Residential Address in Singapore
  9. Local mobile number (working and contactable) in Singapore  

For fresh graduates, you may need extra documents alongside the ones mentioned above:

  1. Original In-Principal Approval (IPA) letter you were sent before starting your degree in Singapore (if you studied here)
  2. Complete transcript (Entire candidature)

What is the process?

You can either apply online through the MOM portal or apply manually. Each method takes a different processing time (a few weeks). After this, if your application gets approved, you will receive an IPA letter that you can use to travel to and from Singapore, however, this is not the employment pass itself. You will then have to book an appointment at the Employment Pass Services Center in Singapore. This appointment will include identity photo taking and biometric procedures. You will then receive the physical Employment Pass soon after.  

What happens if you get rejected?

Although an employment pass is not completely difficult to get, your application can still be rejected for a multitude of reasons. If this does happen, there is a 3-month period in which an appeal can be made to the ministry of manpower. This can include sending additional documents and clarifications to help them make their decision. After this, the appeal can take a few weeks to get processed.

What other options do you have?

  • Student Pass: Student Pass holders are usually students studying in a full-time course in Singapore. To work part time or as an intern, this visa is enough as it allows you to work up to 16 hours a week.  
  • S Pass: This pass is an option for mid-level skilled workers who earn $3,000 or above monthly. The number will differ for workers in the financial sector or higher positions.  
  • Long Term Visit Pass (ICA): You can apply for this pass if you are a visitor holding a foreign/local educational degree and are looking for a job in Singapore. If you are successful in getting a job, you can then apply for an employment pass/S pass/Work pass.  

Story Time:

The day I got my offer letter from Doerscircle, I clearly remember, I finally breathed after 5 months. I was so nervous about applications and interviews, that when I finally got a job, I was so excited about, I could not believe it. But then came a reality check. The applications, the cancellations, the documentation, and a whole lot of hesitation. However, I had nothing to worry about. The company applied for my pass on my behalf and all I had to do was double check the documents and provide the right details. Within 3 weeks, I had completed my biometrics and had my physical pass with me. It was that simple!

Applying for a visa can be incredibly complicated and time consuming.

But we are here to make it easier for you.

From applying to appealing, at Doerscircle, we have a single solution for all the headaches you have to face during the employment pass journey.

Check out our solution now!

Unlock a wealth of exclusive content

Join us and get unlimited access to a wealth of subscriber-only articles that cover a diverse range of topics, from industry trends and insights to expert tips and advice.

Sign up now and gain access!
Once subscribed, you're also unlocking these benefits!
Leverage 100,000+ entrepreneurs for support and advice
Save time and effort with over 50 solutions for your business
Spotlight your business by getting featured on our platform
Contributors
Swaraa Lodha
Digital Marketeer
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Contributors
Swaraa Lodha
Digital Marketeer
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Thank you! Your submission has been received!
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If you are just starting your career (or want to accelerate it), there is a high chance that Singapore has popped in your mind. It is an incredible country to work in and with the constant growth here, it is a dream location for many. However, there are many logistics you will need to take care of before you actually begin working in Singapore.

Imagine this.  

You’re just finishing your degree and want to kickstart your career in Singapore. You apply for jobs, go for interviews and get selected! You begin dreaming about your life here and then suddenly, logistics burst that bubble🙁. Getting a job is simply the first step, but it’s what comes after that that can be truly exhausting. More so when the main requirement is acquiring an employment pass.  

What is the pass?

The employment pass (EP) is a work pass issued by the Ministry of Manpower that lets you reside and work in Singapore. This pass is for foreign professionals, managers, employees, and owners/directors of Singaporean companies. It is a small card that acts as your identity card (IC) while in Singapore and lets you travel internationally without having to apply for entry visas each time you leave. The pass itself is usually valid for 12-24 months and can easily be renewed.  

Are you eligible to get an EP?

If you fulfil certain conditions, you can apply for an EP in Singapore.

  1. You need to be earning a salary of $4,500 or above per month. This needs to be in writing in your offer letter. This number usually applies to fresh graduates and people who have been in the workforce for just a little amount of time. If you are in higher/experienced positions, you will need to earn higher to quality for an EP.
  2. You will need to be in a specialized/executive/managerial position.
  3. You will need to have graduated from a reputable university. If you lack educational qualifications, your strong employment background and high salary can make up for that.  

If you fulfil the criteria above, you can go ahead and fill up your application for an EP and then hope that the EP gods approve it.  

What documents are required?

You will end up needing extra folders and hours to get all your documentation in order if you apply for an EP yourself. You will also have to pay extra attention to all details as missing out on anything could delay the process for you.  

  1. An EP Application Form (Endorsed by the employing company in Singapore)
  2. Latest resume/CV
  3. Highest education certificates/degrees
  4. Passport-size photographs taken in the last 3 months is needbe
  5. A copy of the front and back of your passport
  6. Offer letter
  7. Job description and description of the employing company’s activities
  8. Residential Address in Singapore
  9. Local mobile number (working and contactable) in Singapore  

For fresh graduates, you may need extra documents alongside the ones mentioned above:

  1. Original In-Principal Approval (IPA) letter you were sent before starting your degree in Singapore (if you studied here)
  2. Complete transcript (Entire candidature)

What is the process?

You can either apply online through the MOM portal or apply manually. Each method takes a different processing time (a few weeks). After this, if your application gets approved, you will receive an IPA letter that you can use to travel to and from Singapore, however, this is not the employment pass itself. You will then have to book an appointment at the Employment Pass Services Center in Singapore. This appointment will include identity photo taking and biometric procedures. You will then receive the physical Employment Pass soon after.  

What happens if you get rejected?

Although an employment pass is not completely difficult to get, your application can still be rejected for a multitude of reasons. If this does happen, there is a 3-month period in which an appeal can be made to the ministry of manpower. This can include sending additional documents and clarifications to help them make their decision. After this, the appeal can take a few weeks to get processed.

What other options do you have?

  • Student Pass: Student Pass holders are usually students studying in a full-time course in Singapore. To work part time or as an intern, this visa is enough as it allows you to work up to 16 hours a week.  
  • S Pass: This pass is an option for mid-level skilled workers who earn $3,000 or above monthly. The number will differ for workers in the financial sector or higher positions.  
  • Long Term Visit Pass (ICA): You can apply for this pass if you are a visitor holding a foreign/local educational degree and are looking for a job in Singapore. If you are successful in getting a job, you can then apply for an employment pass/S pass/Work pass.  

Story Time:

The day I got my offer letter from Doerscircle, I clearly remember, I finally breathed after 5 months. I was so nervous about applications and interviews, that when I finally got a job, I was so excited about, I could not believe it. But then came a reality check. The applications, the cancellations, the documentation, and a whole lot of hesitation. However, I had nothing to worry about. The company applied for my pass on my behalf and all I had to do was double check the documents and provide the right details. Within 3 weeks, I had completed my biometrics and had my physical pass with me. It was that simple!

Applying for a visa can be incredibly complicated and time consuming.

But we are here to make it easier for you.

From applying to appealing, at Doerscircle, we have a single solution for all the headaches you have to face during the employment pass journey.

Check out our solution now!

If you are just starting your career (or want to accelerate it), there is a high chance that Singapore has popped in your mind. It is an incredible country to work in and with the constant growth here, it is a dream location for many. However, there are many logistics you will need to take care of before you actually begin working in Singapore.

Imagine this.  

You’re just finishing your degree and want to kickstart your career in Singapore. You apply for jobs, go for interviews and get selected! You begin dreaming about your life here and then suddenly, logistics burst that bubble🙁. Getting a job is simply the first step, but it’s what comes after that that can be truly exhausting. More so when the main requirement is acquiring an employment pass.  

What is the pass?

The employment pass (EP) is a work pass issued by the Ministry of Manpower that lets you reside and work in Singapore. This pass is for foreign professionals, managers, employees, and owners/directors of Singaporean companies. It is a small card that acts as your identity card (IC) while in Singapore and lets you travel internationally without having to apply for entry visas each time you leave. The pass itself is usually valid for 12-24 months and can easily be renewed.  

Are you eligible to get an EP?

If you fulfil certain conditions, you can apply for an EP in Singapore.

  1. You need to be earning a salary of $4,500 or above per month. This needs to be in writing in your offer letter. This number usually applies to fresh graduates and people who have been in the workforce for just a little amount of time. If you are in higher/experienced positions, you will need to earn higher to quality for an EP.
  2. You will need to be in a specialized/executive/managerial position.
  3. You will need to have graduated from a reputable university. If you lack educational qualifications, your strong employment background and high salary can make up for that.  

If you fulfil the criteria above, you can go ahead and fill up your application for an EP and then hope that the EP gods approve it.  

What documents are required?

You will end up needing extra folders and hours to get all your documentation in order if you apply for an EP yourself. You will also have to pay extra attention to all details as missing out on anything could delay the process for you.  

  1. An EP Application Form (Endorsed by the employing company in Singapore)
  2. Latest resume/CV
  3. Highest education certificates/degrees
  4. Passport-size photographs taken in the last 3 months is needbe
  5. A copy of the front and back of your passport
  6. Offer letter
  7. Job description and description of the employing company’s activities
  8. Residential Address in Singapore
  9. Local mobile number (working and contactable) in Singapore  

For fresh graduates, you may need extra documents alongside the ones mentioned above:

  1. Original In-Principal Approval (IPA) letter you were sent before starting your degree in Singapore (if you studied here)
  2. Complete transcript (Entire candidature)

What is the process?

You can either apply online through the MOM portal or apply manually. Each method takes a different processing time (a few weeks). After this, if your application gets approved, you will receive an IPA letter that you can use to travel to and from Singapore, however, this is not the employment pass itself. You will then have to book an appointment at the Employment Pass Services Center in Singapore. This appointment will include identity photo taking and biometric procedures. You will then receive the physical Employment Pass soon after.  

What happens if you get rejected?

Although an employment pass is not completely difficult to get, your application can still be rejected for a multitude of reasons. If this does happen, there is a 3-month period in which an appeal can be made to the ministry of manpower. This can include sending additional documents and clarifications to help them make their decision. After this, the appeal can take a few weeks to get processed.

What other options do you have?

  • Student Pass: Student Pass holders are usually students studying in a full-time course in Singapore. To work part time or as an intern, this visa is enough as it allows you to work up to 16 hours a week.  
  • S Pass: This pass is an option for mid-level skilled workers who earn $3,000 or above monthly. The number will differ for workers in the financial sector or higher positions.  
  • Long Term Visit Pass (ICA): You can apply for this pass if you are a visitor holding a foreign/local educational degree and are looking for a job in Singapore. If you are successful in getting a job, you can then apply for an employment pass/S pass/Work pass.  

Story Time:

The day I got my offer letter from Doerscircle, I clearly remember, I finally breathed after 5 months. I was so nervous about applications and interviews, that when I finally got a job, I was so excited about, I could not believe it. But then came a reality check. The applications, the cancellations, the documentation, and a whole lot of hesitation. However, I had nothing to worry about. The company applied for my pass on my behalf and all I had to do was double check the documents and provide the right details. Within 3 weeks, I had completed my biometrics and had my physical pass with me. It was that simple!

Applying for a visa can be incredibly complicated and time consuming.

But we are here to make it easier for you.

From applying to appealing, at Doerscircle, we have a single solution for all the headaches you have to face during the employment pass journey.

Check out our solution now!

Unlock a wealth of exclusive content

Join us and get unlimited access to a wealth of subscriber-only articles that cover a diverse range of topics, from industry trends and insights to expert tips and advice.

Sign up now and gain access!
Once subscribed, you're also unlocking these benefits!
Leverage 18,000+ entrepreneurs for support and advice
Save time and effort with over 50 solutions for your business
Spotlight your business by getting featured on our platform
Contributors
Swaraa Lodha
Digital Marketeer
Subscribe to our newsletter
No spam. Just the latest news and tips, interesting articles, and exclusive interviews in your inbox every month.
Read about our privacy policy.
Thank you! Your submission has been received!
Oops! Something went wrong while submitting the form.
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