All foreigners must secure a valid work pass, also known as a work visa, before commencing employment in Singapore. Employers are legally responsible for confirming that every foreign employee holds the correct authorisation. This article provides an overview of 14 key passes and permits to help you identify the right option.
Work Permits vs Work Passes: What’s the Difference?
In Singapore, the terms “work permit” and “work pass” are often used interchangeably, but there are important distinctions. Work permits generally apply to foreign workers employed in unskilled or semi-skilled roles in sectors such as construction, shipyards, process industries, manufacturing, and domestic work. These are heavily regulated, and employers hiring such workers must comply with quota requirements, levy payments and mandatory insurance coverage.
By contrast, work passes are often associated with professionals and executives who contribute specialist expertise or leadership skills. Passes such as the Employment Pass or Personalised Employment Pass are intended to attract global talent and provide greater flexibility. Nevertheless, it is important to recognise that “work pass” is an umbrella term that encompasses permits as well. Whether for a professional role or a domestic helper, both technically fall under the broader category of work passes in Singapore’s regulatory framework.
Applications are not made by individuals themselves but by employers, agents or sponsors through the Ministry of Manpower’s eServices. This requires the submission of supporting documents, registration of details, and payment of prescribed fees. Passes are granted for specific periods and must be renewed before expiry. Employers and employees alike have a duty to maintain compliance throughout the validity of the pass, including meeting salary thresholds, adhering to job scopes, and ensuring obligations such as insurance or security bonds are properly fulfilled.
Other Passes
In addition to the main categories for professionals and workers, Singapore issues a variety of passes for trainees and students, family members, and for short-term or exceptional circumstances. These ensure that the system caters not only to the immediate workforce but also to those accompanying or training within Singapore, as well as individuals engaged in specific, temporary activities.
For Professionals and Entrepreneurs
These passes are designed to attract global expertise and entrepreneurial activity to Singapore. They carry higher requirements but also offer greater opportunities, enabling the country to remain a hub for innovation, investment and talent.
1. Employment Pass (EP)
The Employment Pass is intended for foreign professionals, managers and executives. It is central to Singapore’s strategy of drawing in skilled talent, filling roles that cannot easily be met locally. Holders may access a wide range of career opportunities and, subject to conditions, may bring dependants.
Income Threshold: S$5,600 per month for most sectors and S$6,200 per month for financial services, with higher thresholds for older applicants.
Initial Validity: Up to 2 years.
Renewal Validity: Up to 3 years, or up to 5 years for certain technology roles.
2. EntrePass
The EntrePass is created for entrepreneurs who wish to establish and operate innovative or venture-backed businesses in Singapore. Unlike most other passes, its eligibility rests not on salary but on demonstrating the business’s innovative potential, whether through venture capital support, intellectual property or research collaboration.
Income Threshold: No fixed minimum salary; eligibility based on innovation and business potential.
Initial Validity: Up to 1 year.
Renewal Validity: Up to 1 year for the first renewal, then 2 years for subsequent renewals.
3. Personalised Employment Pass (PEP)
The Personalised Employment Pass offers flexibility to high-earning professionals by decoupling the pass from a single employer. This allows holders to change roles more easily and signals Singapore’s interest in retaining global top-tier talent.
Income Threshold: S$22,500 fixed monthly salary.
Initial Validity: Up to 3 years.
Renewal Validity: Non-renewable.
4. Overseas Networks and Expertise Pass (ONE Pass)
This pass targets individuals of international repute in fields like business, academia, sports, arts and culture. It provides flexibility and reflects Singapore’s aim of fostering world-class networks and expertise.
Initial Validity: Up to 5 years.
Renewal Validity: Up to 5 years.
For Skilled and Semi-Skilled Workers
These passes and permits support sectors that rely on skilled or semi-skilled labour. They are vital to industries such as construction, manufacturing, domestic services and entertainment, but are more tightly controlled than professional passes.
5. S Pass
The S Pass is designed for mid-level skilled staff with relevant qualifications and experience. It allows Singapore to supplement its workforce in essential industries where demand cannot be met locally.
Income Threshold: S$3,300 per month, with higher thresholds for older applicants. For financial services roles, minimum monthly salary begins at S$3,800.
Initial Validity: Up to 2 years.
Renewal Validity: Up to 3 years.
6. Work Permit for Migrant Worker
This permit is for foreign workers employed in construction, manufacturing, marine shipyards, process industries and services. It ensures that manpower needs in physically demanding or essential industries are met while subjecting employers to quotas and levies.
Income Threshold: No fixed minimum.
Initial Validity: Up to 2 years, subject to passport validity and employer obligations.
Renewal Validity: Up to 2 years, contingent on continued compliance.
7. Work Permit for Migrant Domestic Worker (MDWs)
This permit covers foreign domestic helpers working in Singapore households. It is one of the most common work authorisations and is strictly regulated to safeguard worker welfare.
Income Threshold: No fixed salary requirement.
Initial Validity: Up to 2 years, subject to security bond validity.
Renewal Validity: Up to 2 years, subject to compliance.
8. Work Permit for Confinement Nanny
The confinement nanny permit allows Malaysian nannies to provide newborn and maternal care in the weeks immediately following birth. It is highly specific and time-limited.
Income Threshold: Not applicable.
Initial Validity: Up to 16 weeks from the birth of the child.
Renewal Validity: Not renewable.
9. Work Permit for Performing Artiste
This permit enables foreign artistes to work in entertainment venues such as hotels, bars and nightclubs. It supports Singapore’s nightlife and hospitality industries while maintaining oversight through strict conditions.
Income Threshold: Not fixed; depends on engagement terms.
Initial Validity: Up to 6 months.
Renewal Validity: Not renewable. Holders cannot obtain another Work Permit of any type until one year after the last permit has expired or been cancelled.
For Family Members
Singapore recognises that professionals and skilled workers are more likely to relocate if they can bring their families with them. A range of passes is therefore available for dependants, allowing spouses, children and other family members to reside, and in some cases to work, in the country.
10. Dependant’s Pass
This pass is available for spouses and unmarried children (below 21 years of age) of Employment Pass and S Pass holders, providing stability for families of foreign professionals.
Income Threshold: Principal pass holder must earn S$6,000 or more per month.
Initial Validity: Matches the principal holder’s pass or requested duration, whichever is shorter.
Renewal Validity: Matches the principal holder’s pass or requested duration, whichever is shorter.
11. Long-Term Visit Pass (LTVP)
The Long-Term Visit Pass supports parents, common-law spouses, stepchildren and handicapped children of eligible EP or S Pass holders, providing broader family coverage than the Dependant’s Pass.
Income Threshold: Principal pass holder must earn S$6,000 or more per month.
Initial Validity: Matches the principal holder’s pass or requested duration, whichever is shorter.
Renewal Validity: Renewable in line with the principal holder’s pass.
12. Pre-Approved Letter of Consent (PLOC)
This letter allows eligible spouses or children of Singapore citizens and permanent residents holding an LTVP or LTVP+ to work. It is pre-approved, streamlining access to employment.
Income Threshold: Not salary-based; eligibility derives from family relationship and LTVP/LTVP+ status.
Initial Validity: Matches the underlying LTVP or LTVP+.
Renewal Validity: Matches the underlying LTVP or LTVP+.
13. Letter of Consent for ICA-Issued LTVP/LTVP+ Holders
This Letter of Consent is available to eligible spouses or children of Singapore citizens or permanent residents who hold a Long-Term Visit Pass or LTVP+ issued by the Immigration and Checkpoints Authority (ICA). It provides a straightforward route for dependants to work in Singapore. The employer must apply for the LOC on behalf of the candidate.
Income Threshold: Tied to LTVP/LTVP+ eligibility.
Initial Validity: Determined by the duration indicated by the employer in the LOC application, or the expiry date of the LTVP/LTVP+.
Renewal Validity: Matches the underlying pass, subject to continued eligibility.
14. Letter of Consent for Dependant’s Pass Holders Who Are Business Owners
Dependant’s Pass holders may apply for this Letter of Consent if they wish to start or operate a business in Singapore.
Income Threshold: Not applicable; eligibility is assessed based on business activity and ownership structure.
Initial Validity: 1 year from the date of issue, or up to the expiry date of the Dependant’s Pass, whichever is shorter.
Renewal Validity: Up to the Dependant’s Pass expiry. The LOC is no longer valid upon cancellation or expiry of the Dependant’s Pass, or if the business closes.
For Trainees and Students
Singapore also offers passes to support individuals who wish to gain practical training or combine study with short-term work experience. These passes are intended for foreign students, graduates, and trainees, enabling them to acquire exposure in Singapore while maintaining regulatory oversight. They are time-limited and tied to specific programmes or training opportunities.
- Training Employment Pass: For foreign students or professionals undergoing practical training in Singapore. Candidates must be enrolled at an approved institution or earn at least S$3,000 a month, and the pass is usually granted for up to three months.
- Work Holiday Pass (Work Holiday Programme): For students and graduates aged 18 to 25 from select countries who wish to work and holiday in Singapore for up to six months.
- Work Holiday Pass (Work and Holiday Visa Programme): For Australian and New Zealander students and graduates aged 18 to 30 who may work and holiday in Singapore for up to twelve months.
- Training Work Permit: For unskilled or semi-skilled foreign trainees who require practical training in Singapore. This permit is granted for up to six months.
For Short-Term or Special Situations
Not all work arrangements fit neatly into standard categories, and Singapore provides short-term or special passes for such circumstances. These allow foreign visitors to engage in limited, specific work activities while maintaining compliance with regulatory conditions.
- Miscellaneous Work Pass: For eligible foreigners, like seminar speakers, journalists and religious workers undertaking short-term assignments in Singapore. The pass is generally valid for up to sixty days.
- Work Pass Exempt Activities: Covers a range of activities such as organising workshops, arbitration, or short-term project work. These activities do not require a formal work pass but must still be notified to MOM. Click here for MOM’s list of eligible activities.
- Work Pass Exemption for Foreign Students: Allows foreign students studying in Singapore with a valid Student’s Pass to work during the school term and vacations, subject to conditions.
- Work Passes for Holders of Long-Term Visit Passes Issued by ICA: Permits certain LTVP holders to work in Singapore with the appropriate consent or exemption, including a Letter of Consent (LOC), Pre-Approved Letter of Consent (PLOC), or standard professional passes and permits.
Summary Table
Professionals, Skilled and Semi-Skilled Workers, Family Members
|
Pass / Permit |
Income Threshold | Initial Validity | Renewal Validity | Key Notes |
|
Employment Pass (EP) |
S$5,600 (S$6,200 financial services) | Up to 2 years | Up to 3 years, 5 years for tech |
Subject to COMPASS; allows dependants |
|
EntrePass |
No fixed salary; eligibility based on innovation/business potential | Up to 1 year | Up to 1 year, then 2 years |
For entrepreneurs and start-ups |
|
Personalised Employment Pass (PEP) |
S$22,500 | Up to 3 years | Non-renewable |
Flexible, not tied to one employer |
|
Overseas Networks and Expertise Pass (ONE Pass) |
S$30,000 monthly OR exceptional achievements | Up to 5 years | Up to 5 years |
For globally recognised talent across business, academia, sports, arts & culture, etc |
|
S Pass |
S$3,300 (S$3,800 for financial services; higher for older applicants) | Up to 2 years | Up to 3 years | |
|
Work Permit (Migrant Worker) |
None | Up to 2 years | Up to 2 years |
Quota, levy, security bond apply |
|
Work Permit (Domestic Worker) (MDW) |
None | Up to 2 years | Up to 2 years |
Insurance and welfare safeguards required |
|
Work Permit (Confinement Nanny) |
None | Up to 16 weeks from birth of child | Not renewable |
Only for Malaysian confinement nannies |
|
Work Permit (Performing Artiste) |
Engagement-based | Up to 6 months | Not renewable (1-year cooldown before new permit) |
For entertainment industry roles |
|
Dependent’s Pass |
Principal pass holder must earn ≥ S$6,000 | Matches principal pass or as requested (whichever is shorter) | Matches principal pass or as requested (whichever is shorter) |
For spouses and children under 21 |
|
Long-Term Visit Pass (LTVP) |
Principal pass holder must earn ≥ S$6,000 | Matches principal pass or as requested (whichever is shorter) | Matches principal pass |
For wider family members |
|
Pre-Approved LOC (PLOC) |
Not salary-based; eligibility tied to LTVP/LTVP+ | Matches LTVP/LTVP+ | Matches LTVP/LTVP+ |
For spouses/children of citizens or PRs |
|
LOC for ICA-Issed LTVP/LTVP+ |
Not salary-based; tied to LTVP eligibility | Matches pass (or employer-stated duration) | Matches pass |
For eligible LTVP holders |
| LOC for Dependant’s Pass Holders (Business) | Not applicable | 1 year or until Dependant’s Pass expiry (whichever is shorter) | Up to Dependant’s Pass expiry |
For DP holders who own/run a business |
FAQs for Pass Holders
What is the application process like?
Applications must be submitted by employers, agents or sponsors through MOM’s online services (eServices). The process involves submitting details of the applicant, proof of qualifications, job description and salary, and paying the relevant fee. Successful applicants are issued an in-principle approval, after which the pass card can be issued and biometrics registered if required.
How long does processing take?
Processing times vary by pass type, but an Employment Pass typically takes around 10 business days if all documents are in order. Other passes may take shorter or longer depending on sector and complexity.
Can I change jobs on a work pass?
Employment Pass and S Pass holders may change employers, but a new pass application must be submitted by the new employer. Because Work Permit holders are usually tied to one employer and sector, to change jobs, a new Work Permit must be approved, and this is subject to sector rules, quotas, and sometimes the current employer’s consent.
What if my pass expires, or I leave the job?
A pass must be renewed before its expiry, otherwise the holder must cease employment and leave Singapore unless a valid alternative stay is arranged. If employment ends, the employer is required to cancel the pass and return the card to MOM. Associated dependant passes may also be affected.
Can I work multiple jobs or part time?
Passes are granted for full-time work with a single employer. Multiple jobs or part-time work are not permitted unless specifically authorised by MOM through an additional consent or exemption.
FAQs for Employers
Can I hire someone who already has an Employment Pass (EP) or S Pass?
Yes, but the new employer must apply for a fresh pass on behalf of the individual. An existing pass is not automatically transferable between employers.
Are there quotas and levies I need to be aware of?
Yes. Work Permits and S Passes are subject to quotas that limit the proportion of foreign workers in specific industries, and employers must pay monthly levies for each worker.
What other obligations should I be aware of besides minimum monthly salary?
Employers hiring S Pass and Work Permit holders must provide medical insurance coverage, and for Work Permit holders, a security bond is also required. Employment Pass holders are not subject to bonds or levies, but employers must follow the Fair Consideration Framework, which requires advertising jobs on MyCareersFuture.sg and demonstrating fair hiring practices before submitting an application. For full details and the latest requirements, please refer to the Ministry of Manpower’s official guidelines.
How do I check if a candidate’s pass is valid?
MOM provides online tools to check the status of work passes. Employers can verify the validity of a pass or pending application here.
What happens if my application is rejected?
MOM will provide reasons for rejection, such as failure to meet salary thresholds, qualifications not being recognised, or issues with quota availability. Employers may address these issues and appeal or reapply if appropriate.
Conclusion
Ensure smooth hiring and application processes with Nala Employment. Our experts handle every step, from identifying the right work pass to managing submissions, saving you time and helping you stay compliant.
Partner with us to simplify approvals and confidently take the next step towards working or hiring in Singapore.
All information in this article is accurate as of 2 October 2025 and is subject to change in accordance with Singapore’s Ministry of Manpower regulations.