Singapore Work Permit Guide: New Rules and Salary Updates for 2025

If you’re planning to work in Singapore, understanding the country’s work permit requirements is essential. Singapore offers a variety of work visas tailored to different categories of foreign workers, from professionals to students.

Here’s a comprehensive guide to Singapore’s work permit/passes, including key updates effective in 2025.

Types of Singapore Work Permits

1. Employment Pass (EP)

The Employment Pass (EP) is the primary work visa for foreign professionals, managers, and executives. To qualify, candidates must meet specific salary requirements and demonstrate their expertise through the COMPASS.

Key Requirements:

• The minimum fixed monthly salary is $5,000, increasing with age to $10,500 for those in their mid-40s.
• Candidates must pass the Complementarity Assessment Framework (COMPASS), which evaluates applicants based on qualifications, work experience, and the hiring company’s contributions to Singapore’s economy.

Major Changes:

• From 1 January 2025, the EP qualifying salary will increase to:
  • $5,600 for most sectors.
  • $6,200 for the financial services sector.
• These new thresholds aim to ensure competitiveness and attract highly skilled professionals.
• For renewals, the revised salary thresholds will take effect from 1 January 2026, giving existing pass holders time to meet the updated requirements.
• The changes align with Singapore’s broader effort to strengthen its workforce by ensuring foreign talent complements the local labour market.

2. EntrePass

Aspiring entrepreneurs can explore the EntrePass, designed for foreign individuals seeking to establish innovative businesses in Singapore.

Eligibility Criteria:

• Your business must be venture-backed or involve innovative technologies.
• Applicants must present a robust business plan and demonstrate how their enterprise will contribute to Singapore’s economy.
• Priority is given to businesses in growth industries such as tech startups, sustainable energy, and biotechnology.

3. Personalised Employment Pass (PEP)

High-earning EP holders and overseas professionals can benefit from the greater flexibility offered by the Personalised Employment Pass (PEP). The PEP offers more flexibility compared to the standard EP.

Who Can Apply:

• Existing EP holders earn a fixed monthly salary of at least $12,000.
• Overseas professionals earn a fixed monthly salary of at least $18,000.
• The PEP allows jobseekers to switch employers without reapplying for a new pass, provided they notify the Ministry of Manpower within a specific period.

4. Overseas Networks & Expertise Pass

The Overseas Networks & Expertise Pass caters to top talent in various fields, including business, arts, culture, sports, academia, and research.

Key Benefits:

• Valid for five years, allowing pass holders to work in multiple roles or start their own businesses.
• Designed to attract individuals who can significantly contribute to Singapore’s global standing in their respective fields.

Work Permit for Skilled and Semi-Skilled Workers

1. S Pass

The S Pass is for skilled workers earning at least $3,150 per month for most industries, increasing progressively with age.

Additional Details:

• Employers must meet specific quota and levy requirements to hire S Pass holders.
• Candidates must have relevant qualifications such as a degree, diploma, or specialized skills certification.

2. Work Permit for Migrant Workers

This permit applies to skilled and semi-skilled workers in industries such as construction, manufacturing, marine shipyard, and services.

Key Features:

• Work permits are tied to specific employers, and workers cannot switch jobs without prior approval.
• Employers must provide proper housing and medical insurance for work permit holders.

Permits for Trainees and Students

1. Training Employment Pass

• For foreign professionals undergoing practical training.
• Minimum salary requirement: $3,000 per month.
• Suitable for structured training programs offered by Singapore-based employers.
• The pass is valid for up to three months, with extensions subject to approval.

2. Work Holiday Pass

• For students and graduates aged 18 to 25.
• Allows work and travel in Singapore for up to 6 months under the Work Holiday Programme.
• Open to nationals from specific countries, including Australia, France, Germany, Hong Kong, Japan, and the UK.
• Applicants must demonstrate proof of enrollment in a recognized university or recent graduation.

3. Work Pass Exemption for Students

International students enrolled full-time at approved institutions in Singapore may qualify for work pass exemptions.

Eligibility Details:

• Students can work part-time during school term (up to 16 hours per week) and full-time during holidays without additional permits.
• This exemption applies only to students at institutions approved by Singapore’s Ministry of Education.

4. Training Work Permit

• Designed for foreign students or trainees in training attachment programmes.
• Valid for up to six months.
• Applicants must be sponsored by a Singapore-based company and meet specific criteria outlined by the Ministry of Manpower.

Important Note: Working in Singapore without a valid work pass is an offence, even for students. Violators may face fines, deportation, or bans on future employment in Singapore.

Why Work in Singapore?

Singapore is a global hub for business and innovation, offering numerous opportunities for foreign workers. The structured visa system ensures clarity for professionals, entrepreneurs, and students alike, making it easier to contribute to and benefit from the country’s vibrant economy.

Conclusion

Whether you’re a professional, entrepreneur, skilled worker, or student, Singapore offers a tailored visa to meet your needs. Keep track of the latest visa updates, including salary thresholds and renewal policies, to ensure a smooth application process. For more information, visit Singapore’s Ministry of Manpower website.