Country guide · Singapore
Working in Singapore: Employment Pass and getting hired
Singapore is Asia's most international business hub with active hiring in tech, finance, and professional services — but the Employment Pass system has become more selective in recent years.
Last updated July 28, 2026
Quick facts
Main route
Employment Pass (EP)
Min. salary (general)
SGD 5,600/month floor (2026; rises with age)
Min. salary (financial services)
SGD 6,200/month floor (2026; rises with age)
COMPASS assessment?
Yes — usually 40 points required
Bring family?
Yes — Dependant's Pass (subject to rules)
Path to PR?
Possible after sustained employment — not automatic
The Employment Pass — two-stage eligibility
Singapore's Employment Pass (EP) is the main work pass for professionals, managers, and executives. Since 2023, most new EP applications must pass a two-stage test: (1) meet the EP qualifying salary for your age and sector, and (2) unless exempt, pass COMPASS — a points-based framework.
As of 2026, the minimum qualifying salary floor is SGD 5,600/month for most sectors and SGD 6,200/month for financial services. Those floors rise with age (from age 23 up to age 45+). Hitting the floor is necessary but not sufficient — COMPASS still applies for most candidates. MOM has published higher floors for new applications from 1 January 2027 (and related renewal dates) — verify on MOM before you negotiate.
COMPASS typically requires at least 40 points across individual and firm-level criteria (salary vs sector peers, qualifications, diversity, local workforce profile, plus possible bonus criteria). Candidates at or above a high fixed-monthly-salary exemption threshold (check current MOM guidance — often cited around SGD 22,500) may be exempt from COMPASS. Use MOM’s Self-Assessment Tool with your prospective employer.
Ask employers the COMPASS question
“Have you run this role through MOM’s Self-Assessment Tool for my profile and salary?” A serious Singapore hire should have an answer.
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