How to apply for a Singapore EP?

Singapore is one of Asia's most important financial, trade, and technology centers. Its stable political environment, excellent public security, abundant educational resources, and outstanding healthcare system have successfully attracted professionals and entrepreneurs from around the world. The Employment Pass (EP) is a work permit designed by the Singapore government for foreign professionals, senior managers, and investors/entrepreneurs. The Self-Employed EP allows applicants to obtain long-term residency and work rights in Singapore by establishing a company and employing themselves.

Advantages of choosing Singapore self-employed EP

1. You can apply for visas for your family members: spouse, children and parents.

2. Abundant and high-quality educational resources

3. Similar language and culture make it easy to integrate into local life.

4. The economic market is highly competitive and the tax system is friendly.

5. It allows for further applications for permanent residency and citizenship, which is beneficial for long-term planning.

   
   

I. Application Process

Step 1 : Establish a company

It is recommended that the nature of the company's business be consistent with the applicant's academic and professional background. In addition to confirming the company name and scope of business, the most important point in establishing a company in Singapore is that it must appoint a local director who is a Singapore permanent resident or citizen. Once the documents are prepared, the company registration application can be submitted to the Accounting and Corporate Regulatory Authority (ACRA) of Singapore.

Step 2 : Open a company account and deposit funds.

After the company completes its registration, the applicant should take the company registration certificate, articles of association and terms of service (M&A), proof of directors' employment, and other relevant documents to a local bank to open a company account and deposit appropriate funds.

Step 3 : Submit EP application

As of August 2025, according to the latest official regulations from Singapore's Ministry of Manpower (MOM), EP applicants must pass a two-stage review to meet the EP eligibility requirements:

1. Basic salary review : The applicant's age and the top third of the salaries of professionals, managers, senior executives or technicians (PMETs) of the same age in the local area at the time of application are used as reference standards.

2. Complementarity Assessment Framework (COMPASS) : After passing the basic salary review, applicants must obtain a certain number of points in COMPASS to meet the application requirements.

Once the applicant confirms that they are eligible, they can submit their EP application to the Singapore Ministry of Manpower (MOM) with their passport, identity card, proof of education and work experience, and relevant company registration documents.

Step 4 : Submit biometric data in Singapore

After receiving initial approval from the MOM, the applicant will receive a letter of approval in principle. At this time, the applicant must personally go to Singapore within a specified period to register their fingerprints, photograph and signature.

Step 5 : Obtain a residence permit

After completing the data registration and document review, the residence card will be sent by the Work Visa Service Centre (EPSC) under MOM. The first residence card is valid for a maximum of 2 years.

II. Applying for a family permit or long-term visit permit

If an EP holder's monthly salary meets the statutory standard, they can apply for a Dependent's Pass (DP) or a Long-Term Visit Pass (LTVP) for their unmarried children under 21 years of age, spouse, and parents, allowing the whole family to live together in Singapore.

III. Renewal of Self-Employed EP

The initial EP residence card is valid for a maximum of 2 years, and can be renewed for a maximum of 3 years. Applicants can submit their renewal application as early as 6 months before the expiry date. Renewal requirements and required documents include:

• Applicants should meet the minimum wage standard and have earned sufficient points in COMPASS.

• Continue to hold an important 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. Application eligibility and requirements are subject to change based on local policies. Please refer to the latest official announcement at the time of application for the most accurate information.