Singapore work permit options explained!

Singapore offers a variety of work permits to accommodate professionals, skilled workers and entrepreneurs from around the world. Want better success in obtaining one? You’ll need a better understanding of the most common visas and passes such as an Employment Pass, S Pass and Long Term Visit Pass. Here, the Legal Expat Singapore team takes us through the eligibility and terms, including minimum salary for employment pass applications.

Singapore work permits for expats

# Employment Pass (EP)

This is the most common Singapore work permit for professionals, managers and executives planning to take up a high-paying job with a local company or multinational corporation. The minimum salary to qualify for Employment Pass is $5,600 monthly, and you must possess recognised qualifications. An employer must apply for an EP on your behalf. The EP is typically valid for two years, with the possibility of renewal.

# S Pass

This is designed for mid-skilled workers and is a good option for technical workers, such as those in IT, healthcare and engineering. You need to earn a minimum salary of $3,000 per month; this amount rises progressively with age and experience. Employers need to apply for this permit on your behalf, which is valid for up to two years, with the possibility of renewal.

# Long-Term Visit Pass (LTVP)

This allows foreign spouses and unmarried children (under age 21) of Singapore citizens or permanent residents to reside in Singapore. Foreign spouses may work if the employer of the main permit holder applies for a Letter of Consent (LOC) on their behalf. Other categories of LTVP holders generally need a work permit.

# Dependent’s Pass (DP)

DP holders can’t work unless they qualify for their own work permit, as above. If the main permit holder has a ONE Pass, the DP holder can work if the prospective employer applies for an LOC. In addition, DP holders may apply for an LOC if they wish to set up and operate their own business, provided it meets Ministry of Manpower (MOM) criteria.

Eligibility and challenges for Singapore work permit renewals

Work permits in Singapore are tied to the company you work for. Expats who are renewing their permit with their current employer will be assessed under current rules. An expat moving to a different company needs a new pass, which the new company has to apply for on your behalf. Each employment pass application or renewal typically requires educational, employment and corporate documents. The processing time averages from three to eight weeks.

The probability of success depends on the current rules by the MOM, which regularly updates salary thresholds, manpower quotas and fair hiring practices.

Factors for a successful employment pass application

Here are some things to take note of for a successful employment pass application:

• Ensure that you have the specific educational qualifications or experience, and that these are verified.
• When negotiating work contracts, ensure that you stay within the minimum monthly salary thresholds of the work permit you’re applying for.
• Ensure that your job description is clear and aligns with the work pass requirements.

Unsure about your eligibility for a particular work permit? The Legal Expat Singapore team can guide you through the process. They’re made up of well-established lawyers who are immigration specialists and provide high-quality advice at reasonable rates.

Legal Expat Singapore is at #13-26 Vision Exchange, 2 Venture Drive
8093 4393 | legalexpat.sg

This article about different Singapore work permits and how to succeed in an Employment Pass application first appeared in the November 2025 edition of Expat Living. You can purchase the latest issue or subscribe so you never miss a copy!

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