Source: Ministry of Manpower Singapore (mom.gov.sg) · General information only. Not immigration advice. Verify requirements before applying.
The most common visa for professional expats in Singapore. Your employer applies on your behalf through the MOM EP Online portal. Processing time approximately 3 weeks (online applications). The EP is tied to your employer — change jobs and the new employer must apply for a fresh EP.
COMPASS (Complementarity Assessment Framework) is a points-based system applied at EP renewal and some new applications. Points are awarded across four criteria: salary (relative to peers in the same sector), qualifications, diversity (nationality of existing EP holders in the company) and local employment support. Score 40+ points out of 60 to pass. Employers with a high concentration of one nationality may face challenges passing COMPASS for additional EP holders from that nationality.
The Overseas Networks and Expertise Pass is for individuals earning at least SGD 30,000/month or those with exceptional achievements in arts, sports, science, research or business. 5-year pass, renewable. Not tied to any employer — allows free movement between employers or self-employment. A genuine differentiator from the standard EP.
EP holders earning SGD 6,000+/month can sponsor a Dependant Pass for their spouse and children under 21. For those below this threshold, a Long-Term Visit Pass (LTVP) may be available for spouses. Dependant Pass holders can apply for a Letter of Consent (LOC) to work in Singapore, though this is not automatic.
0% capital gains tax. Territorial system — foreign income generally not taxed. Progressive PIT 0–24% on Singapore-source income. No inheritance tax. See the Singapore tax guide →
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