Singapore Work Permits Explained: S Pass vs. Employment Pass in 2024

Introduction to Work Permits in Singapore
‍Singapore remains a global hub for business and innovation, attracting professionals from around the world with its robust economy and vibrant culture. For foreign professionals looking to work in Singapore, understanding the types of work permits available is crucial.

The two primary types of work permits—the S Pass and the Employment Pass (EP)—cater to different qualifications and industries. This article will explore the differences between these passes, providing essential information for anyone considering working in Singapore.

What is an S Pass?
‍The S Pass is a type of work permit in Singapore designed for mid-skilled foreign employees. Candidates must earn a minimum monthly salary of SGD 2,500 (this threshold may be higher depending on the applicant’s experience and qualifications). The S Pass application is subject to a points-based assessment system that considers multiple criteria, including salary, education qualifications, skills, job type, and work experience.

Employers are required to contribute to a quota and levy for S Pass workers, which is intended to regulate the number of foreign workers in the country.

What is an Employment Pass (EP)?
‍The Employment Pass is aimed at foreign professionals, managers, and executives with job offers in Singapore. Candidates for the EP must have a minimum monthly salary of SGD 4,500 (higher for more experienced individuals), and typically hold acceptable qualifications, such as a university degree, professional qualifications, or specialist skills. Unlike the S Pass, there is no quota or levy for EP, which gives employers more flexibility in hiring.

Check out more on Singapore Employment Pass Guide 2024

‍Comparing Employment Pass and S Pass: Eligibility and Requirements

Criteria	Employment Pass	S Pass
Target Group	Designed for foreign professionals in executive, managerial, or specialized roles. Detailed occupations suitable for EP can be found on the Ministry of Manpower’s official site.	Intended for mid-level skilled foreign workers seeking employment in various sectors across Singapore.
Eligibility Requirements for	- Must have a confirmed job offer in Singapore. - Occupations must be executive, managerial, or specialized. -Required to earn a minimum monthly salary of S$5,000; this threshold increases with age and experience. - Must possess recognized qualifications such as a reputable university degree or professional certifications.	- Must have a confirmed job offer with a minimum monthly salary of S$3,000; like EP, this amount varies with age and experience. - Educational background should include a degree, diploma, or technical certificate, with at least one year of full-time study. - Relevant work experience is necessary.
Salary Standards	Starting at a minimum of S$5,000, varying based on the industry and the applicant’s work experience.	A minimum of S$2,500, adjustable according to sector-specific standards and the candidate’s professional background.
Application Prerequisites - Who can apply for S Pass or Employment Visa?	- Applications must be submitted by a registered employer in Singapore or an authorized employment agent. - A new application is required if the employee switches employers.	- Application must be lodged by a registered employer or an approved agent. - A fresh application is necessary when changing employers.
Validity Period for for an Employment Pass and S Pass?	Typically granted for up to 2 years for first-time applicants and up to 3 years upon renewal.	Generally issued for up to 2 years initially, with potential renewal based on employment terms.
Quota and Levy Requirements	No quotas or levies are required for the Employment Pass.	- Subject to a quota within the Work Permit system. - Restricted to hiring: * Up to 13% of the total workforce in the service sector. * Up to 20% in other sectors. - Over-quota employment requires adjustments in local vs. foreign worker ratios. Quota calculator available here. - Employers are obligated to pay a foreign worker levy and Skills Development Levy from the issuance to the cancellation or expiration of the S Pass.
Documentation Needed	- Applicant’s passport details page. - Employer’s latest business profile as registered with the Accounting and Corporate Regulatory Authority (ACRA). - Educational and qualification certificates of the candidate.	Similar requirements as the EP, ensuring consistency in documentation across different pass types.

Application Process for Employment Pass and S Pass in Singapore
‍If you are planning to hire a foreign professional in Singapore, navigating the application process for either an Employment Pass (EP) or an S Pass is crucial. Here's a streamlined step-by-step guide to ensure compliance and efficiency:

1. Job Posting on Approved Platform: List your job vacancy on a government-approved website. Ensure the job title and duties match exactly with those in your EP or S Pass application.

2. Consistency and Advertising Duration: The advertisement must run for a minimum of 28 days. Any changes to the job details during this period require restarting the advertisement for another 28 days.

3. Application Timing: You can begin your EP or S Pass application on the 29th day after the ad was first posted, as long as it's within three months from the date of posting.

4. Submitting the Application:

For Employment Pass: Apply via the official online service for Employment Pass.
For S Pass: Use the official online service for S Pass.

This streamlined guide ensures your application complies with the Ministry of Manpower’s requirements, facilitating a smoother process for hiring foreign professionals in Singapore.

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Understanding Work Permits in Singapore: S Pass vs. Employment Pass (EP)