Singapore Work Visas

Singapore offers a range of work visas to cater to foreign professionals with varying backgrounds, skill levels, and career needs.Each of these work visa types has unique characteristics. Applicants should choose the visa category that best suits their professional background, skill level, and career needs. Understanding the specific requirements and application processes for each visa is crucial for successfully obtaining the visa. Here is a detailed overview of the main work visa types:

    • Employment Pass (EP)
    • S Pass
    • Work Permit
    • EntrePass
    • Personalised Employment Pass (PEP)
  • Suitable For: Employment Pass (EP) is designed for foreign professionals with specialized skills and experience, including senior executives, technical experts, and top management personnel.
  • Requirements: Applicants typically need a recognized degree or higher qualification in their field and relevant work experience. Additionally, they must meet the minimum salary requirement (which may be subject to change) to reflect their professional skills and job importance.
  • Features: EP holders can freely change employers in Singapore and enjoy high levels of employment benefits and remuneration. This visa allows for long-term residency and employment in Singapore, usually with a validity of two years.
  • Suitable For: S Pass is intended for foreigners with mid-level skills, including technical workers, technical specialists, and skilled trainees.
  • Requirements: Applicants must have relevant qualifications or vocational training and meet the specified minimum salary threshold. They also need to demonstrate a certain level of work experience to validate their skill level.
  • Features: S Pass holders receive certain benefits during their employment, but the requirements are less stringent compared to EP. This visa is suited for mid-skill positions and typically has a validity of two years.
  • Suitable For: Work Permit is designed for general labor force foreigners, including construction workers, service industry workers, and manufacturing workers.
  • Requirements: The application process for Work Permits is relatively strict. The employing company must meet specific conditions, including having an approved foreign worker quota. Applicants must also meet minimum age requirements and possess basic skills training or work experience.
  • Features: Work Permits are usually valid for two years but can be renewed as needed. This visa is primarily for labor-intensive positions, and holders are entitled to basic employment rights.
  • Suitable For: EntrePass is for foreigners who intend to start a business in Singapore.
  • Requirements: Applicants must submit a detailed business plan and investment proposal and meet the entrepreneurial criteria and requirements. The EntrePass is aimed at foreign entrepreneurs who plan to establish a new business in Singapore, with specific investment and turnover thresholds.
  • Features: EntrePass holders can legally start and operate a business in Singapore. The visa is initially valid for one year and can be renewed based on the business's performance, with renewed EntrePass valid for two years.
  • Suitable For: Personalised Employment Pass (PEP) is designed for high-level professionals and high-income individuals.
  • Requirements: PEP holders must be qualified professionals with a high salary level. Unlike other work visas, PEP holders can work without employer restrictions and have a longer period to find new job opportunities if they become unemployed.
  • Features: PEP offers greater work flexibility and freedom, allowing holders to switch employers without needing to reapply for a visa. This visa is valid for three years, and eligible applicants can apply for an extension upon expiry.