Singapore Work Passes
Foreign professionals, managers, and executives need a valid work pass to work in Singapore. The Ministry of Manpower (MOM) has strict, data-driven frameworks for evaluating applications.
1. Employment Pass (EP)
The EP is the standard work pass for foreign professionals.
- Minimum Qualifying Salary: S$5,000 per month (scales up with age, up to S$10,500 for candidates in their mid-40s). Financial sector salaries are higher.
- COMPASS Framework: Since September 2023, EP applications must pass a points-based system called COMPASS (Complementarity Assessment Framework), evaluating both the candidate (salary, qualifications) and the firm (diversity, support for local employment).
Read the complete Employment Pass Guide
2. EntrePass
The EntrePass is designed for serial entrepreneurs, high-calibre innovators, or experienced investors looking to operate a venture-backed or innovative business in Singapore.
- Key Difference from EP: There is no minimum salary requirement.
- Strict Criteria: You must meet specific criteria, such as having funding from a government-recognized VC, holding an intellectual property registered with a recognized national IP institution, or having a track record of building highly scalable businesses. It is not for opening a standard cafe or consultancy.
3. Overseas Networks & Expertise (ONE) Pass
Introduced recently to attract top global talent.
- Flexibility: It is a personalized, 5-year pass. Holders can concurrently start, operate, and work for multiple companies in Singapore.
- Salary Requirement: Extremely high. Requires a fixed monthly salary of at least S$30,000, or an outstanding track record in sports, arts, science, or academia.