How to apply for a Singapore EP?
Updated: May 21
Singapore is a leading financial, trade, and technology hub in Asia, known for its political stability, strong public safety, and high-quality education and healthcare systems. The Employment Pass (EP) is designed for foreign professionals, executives, and entrepreneurs. Through the Self-Employed EP, applicants can establish a company, employ themselves, and obtain long-term residency and work rights in Singapore.
Advantages of choosing Singapore EP
Family visa eligibility: Spouse, children and parents.
Quality Education: Access to abundant, high-quality educational resources.
Business-Friendly Environment: Competitive market with a favorable tax system.
Long-Term Pathway: Enables progression to permanent residency and citizenship.
I. Application Process
Step 1 : Establish a company
The company’s business should align with the applicant’s academic and professional background. A local director is required, and once the company details and documents are ready, the application can be submitted to ACRA.
Step 2 : Open a company account and deposit funds.
After registration, the applicant should bring the company certificate, M&A, proof of directors’ appointment, and other relevant documents to a local bank to open a company account and deposit sufficient funds.
Step 3 : Submit EP application
As of August 2025, EP applicants must pass Singapore's Ministry of Manpower (MOM)’s two-stage review: the basic salary requirement and the COMPASS points assessment:
Basic salary requirement: The applicant’s salary must meet the benchmark based on age and the top one-third salaries of local professionals, managers, senior executives or technicians (PMETs).
COMPASS assessment: After meeting the salary requirement, the applicant must obtain sufficient COMPASS points to qualify for the EP application.
Once eligibility is confirmed, the applicant may submit the EP application to MOM with their passport, ID, education and work experience records, and relevant company registration documents.
Step 4 : Submit biometric data in Singapore
After MOM grants initial approval, the applicant will receive an In-Principle Approval letter and must visit Singapore within the specified period to register their fingerprints, photo, and signature.
Step 5 : Obtain the EP card
After completing registration and document review, the EP card will be issued by MOM’s Employment Pass Services Centre (EPSC). The first EP is valid for up to 2 years.
II. Apply for family passes
If the EP holder’s monthly salary meets the required threshold, they may apply for a Dependant’s Pass (DP) or Long-Term Visit Pass (LTVP) for eligible family members, such as their spouse, unmarried children under 21, and parents.
III. Renewals
The initial EP is valid for up to 2 years and may be renewed for up to 3 years. Renewal applications can be submitted as early as 6 months before expiry. Renewal requirements include:
Applicants must continue to meet the salary and COMPASS requirements.
Continue to hold a key position in the same company.
Update relevant documents such as passports, contact information, and company operational data.
* The information in this article is for reference only. Please refer to the latest official announcement at the time of application for the most accurate information.
內政部移民署註冊登記證號：L0011-S0 品廣字第1140507號
