Work Pass Applications in Singapore

Work Pass Applications in Singapore: EP, S Pass, WP – What You Need to Know

Singapore remains a top destination for global businesses and skilled talent. As companies expand or relocate to Singapore, many face one common administrative hurdle — work pass applications. Whether you’re hiring a foreign executive or operational staff, understanding the differences between the Employment Pass (EP), S Pass, and Work Permit (WP) is essential.

At USAFE, we help businesses navigate Singapore’s evolving employment regulations with speed, accuracy, and full compliance. In this article, we outline the key types of work passes and how our team can support your hiring goals.

1. Employment Pass (EP)

The Employment Pass is for foreign professionals, managers, and executives with job offers in Singapore. It’s typically used for hiring skilled talent in roles such as finance, IT, marketing, legal, and audit.

Key Criteria:

• Minimum monthly salary of SGD 5,000 (as of 2025; higher for older and more experienced candidates)

• Recognised university degree or professional qualification

• Relevant experience and skillset

Why It Matters:
EP holders form the backbone of regional HQs, startups, and growing companies. However, stricter evaluation standards (e.g., COMPASS framework) mean that companies must justify each application thoroughly.

How USAFE Helps:
We assist with application preparation, salary benchmarking, COMPASS scoring, and submission — increasing approval success rates.

2. S Pass

The S Pass is intended for mid-level skilled workers, such as technicians, supervisors, and junior professionals.

Key Criteria:

• Minimum salary of SGD 3,150 (rising with age and industry)

• Acceptable diploma or technical qualification

• Quota restrictions and levies apply

Common Industries:
Manufacturing, logistics, hospitality, construction, and IT support.

Why It Matters:
S Passes help fill roles where there is a local manpower gap. However, the quota system makes careful planning and documentation essential.

Our Support Includes:

• Eligibility checks

• Work pass quota advisory

• End-to-end application and renewal management

3. Work Permit (WP)

Work Permits are for semi-skilled or unskilled foreign workers from approved source countries. These are commonly used in industries such as construction, marine, cleaning, food services, and manufacturing.

Key Features:

• No minimum salary

• Sector-specific restrictions

• Medical exams, security bonds, and levies required

• Higher compliance requirements for employers

Challenges Businesses Face:
WP applications require coordination with multiple agencies (MOM, BCA, SCAL) and may involve safety certifications or prior approval.

How We Help:
USAFE handles the entire process, from application and quota check to permit issuance, levy management, and renewals.

Why Choose USAFE for Work Pass Application Support

We’re more than just a service provider — we’re a licensed Corporate Service Provider (CSP) and Public Accounting (PA) firm, which means we understand compliance from both a business and regulatory perspective.

What Sets Us Apart:

• Fast, reliable, and accurate applications

• Advisory on salary structuring, job descriptions, and industry standards

• 24/7 client support, including weekends and public holidays

• Offices and support teams in Singapore, Malaysia, Vietnam, China, and Hong Kong

• Full suite of business services: Incorporation, Accounting, Tax, Audit, and Valuation

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Submitting incomplete documentation

• Misclassifying job titles and salaries

• Ignoring quota or COMPASS scoring criteria

• Overlooking renewal deadlines

• Failing to comply with post-approval requirements (e.g. insurance, bond, address updates)

With USAFE, you can avoid these risks and focus on growing your business.

Need Help With a Work Pass Application?

Let USAFE be your trusted partner in managing Employment Pass, S Pass, and Work Permit applications in Singapore. Our team is here to simplify the process and help your business hire the talent it needs, without delay or non-compliance issues.

Contact us today to speak with a consultant and receive a tailored work pass advisory.