Comparing Singapore's Employment Pass, S-Pass and Work Permits

Singapore is an employment hub which stretches across a wide range of industries and for a diverse group of workers in terms of proficiency levels and skillsets. This blog sets out a high-level snapshot of essential points which you need to know when employing a foreigner in Singapore.

	Employment Pass	S Pass	Work Permit
Who is it for?	For foreign professionals, managers, and executives	For skilled workers	For skilled and semi-skilled migrant workers in the construction, manufacturing, marine shipyard, process or services sectors, or for foreign performers working in public entertainment outlets such as bars, hotels and nightclubs
Nationalities	Available to all nationalities	Available to all nationalities	Only approved countries such as, but not limited to, Malaysia, China, South Korea, India
Minimum salary	• Starting from S$5,000 and increases progressively with age, up to S$10,500 for those in the mid-40’s • Candidates in the financial services sector need higher salaries to qualify	S$3,150 per month	No minimum requirements
Levy	Not required	Levy applicable, depending on industry, monthly levy is typically around S$550 – S$650	Levy applicable depending on industry, candidate’s home country, and candidate’s skill proficiency. Monthly levy ranges from S$250 – S$950
Quota	Not required	Quota applicable, depending on the industry. The quota is typically 10-15% of the company’s total workforce	Quota is applicable, depending on the industry and ranges 10-60% of the company’s total workforce
Duration	• First-time candidates: up to 2 years • Renewals up to 3 years • Experienced tech professionals with skills in shortage may be eligible for a longer pass (5 years)	Up to 2 years	Up to 2 years, subject to security bond
Medical insurance	Optional	Employers must provide insurance	Employers must provide insurance
Any other required tests?	Each Employment Pass application must pass the Complementarity Assessment Framework (COMPASS)	N/A	• Specified industry may have prescribed tests. For example, workers who handle metals and machinery must complete either a Metalworking Safety Orientation Course or a Apply Workplace Safety and Health in Metal Work
Can candidate apply to be a Singapore permanent resident?	Yes	Yes	No

There are many more work permit subcategories which may be available. Marco is well-versed in global employment and is able to handle all applications and renewals in order for your company to expand its workforce in Singapore.

Focus on your growth – and we’ll take care of the rest!

Comparing Singapore’s Employment Pass, S-Pass and Work Permits

RSU vs ESOP Taxation: What are the Differences and Which One is Better?

Professional Employer Organisations & its Origin

General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR)

Technology

Resources

Partners

Company

Employer Cost Report

Employer Cost Report
Legal Minimum

Monthly

Yearly

Monthly M Ratio

Yearly M Ratio

M Ratio