Before starting employment in Singapore, all foreign nationals must obtain a valid work pass (commonly known as a work visa). If you hire foreign workers in Singapore, ensure they hold a valid work permit.
Learn which work pass suits your needs, check eligibility criteria, and find out how to apply, renew, or cancel a work pass.
Designed for semi-skilled foreign workers from approved countries, the Work Permit allows them to work in specific sectors. Learn about your sector’s requirements, foreign worker levy, quota, and the application process for a Work Permit.
The S Pass is for mid-level skilled employees. To qualify, candidates must earn a minimum of $3,000 per month and possess the relevant qualifications and work experience. Explore the steps on how to apply for a S Pass.
The Employment Pass is for foreign professionals, managers, and executives. Candidates need to have a minimum salary of $5,000 per month and meet the qualifications criteria. Find out how to apply for an Employment Pass.
The Dependant Pass enables spouses and children of Employment Pass or S Pass holders to reside with them in Singapore. Discover which family members qualify for a Dependant Pass.
This pass is for a common-law spouse, step-child, or handicapped child of an Employment Pass or S Pass holder. Employees earning over $12,000 per month can also apply for a pass for their parents. Learn more about the Long-Term Visit Pass application process.
As of 1 May 2021, dependants of foreign nationals holding a Dependant’s Pass must obtain an applicable work pass (e.g., EP, S Pass, or Work Permit) to work in Singapore, instead of a Letter of Consent. Learn how to apply for a Letter of Consent.
Learn more about the hiring procedures for semi-skilled and unskilled foreign workers engaged in manufacturing, construction, maritime, processing, and service industries in Singapore. While there is no minimum wage, work permit requirements vary depending on the industry.
| Feature | Employment Pass | S Pass | Work Permit |
|---|---|---|---|
| Skill Level | Highly skilled professionals | Mid-skilled workers | Lower-skilled workers |
| Minimum Salary | At least $5,000 per month (increases with age, up to $10,500 for those in mid-40s) | At least $3,150 per month (increases with age, up to $4,650 for those in mid-40s) | No minimum salary requirement |
| Qualifications | University degree or specialized skills | Diploma or technical certificates | Varies by sector; basic education often |
| Quota | No quota | Subject to quota (dependent on sector) | Subject to stricter quotas (dependent on sector) |
| Levy | No levy | Employer pays monthly levy (rates vary by sector and tier) | Employer pays monthly levy (rates vary by sector and tier) |
| Validity | Up to 2 years for first-time candidates; up to 3 years for renewals; up to 5 years for experienced tech professionals | Up to 2 years, renewable | Up to 2 years, renewable |
| Medical Insurance | Not mandatory | Employer must provide | Employer must provide |
| Sector Restrictions | Open to most industries | Limited to specific sectors | Sector-specific restrictions apply |
| Dependent Privileges | Eligible for Dependant’s Pass (DP) and Long-Term Visit Pass (LTVP) for family members | Eligible for DP and LTVP if earning at least $6,000 per month | Not eligible |