All You Need to Know About the S Pass Singapore Application

 

The S Pass might be your ticket to success if you're a mid-skilled foreign professional looking to work in Singapore. In this blog post, we'll walk you through the ins and outs of the S Pass Singapore application process, from understanding eligibility criteria to renewing your pass and bringing your family to Singapore. Are you ready to embark on this exciting journey? Let's dive right in!

Short Summary

  • The S Pass is a work pass administered by the Singapore Ministry of Manpower for mid-skilled foreign employees, specifically targeting associated professionals or technicians with mid-level skills.

  • The Singapore Ministry of Manpower (MOM) classifies foreign workers according to their skill levels, including the category of 'mid-skilled'. These workers are hired in diverse sectors throughout Singapore. 

  • While the exact industries are not stated, it can be assumed that any industry that requires skilled technicians and associate professionals would be applicable.

  • As of 1 September 2023, the new salary requirements are as follows: 

    • All sectors (except financial services) have a minimum qualifying salary of $3,150, increasing incrementally up to age 45 and above, which is capped at $4,650. 

    • Financial services sector has a minimum qualifying salary of $3,650, increasing incrementally up to age 45 and above, which is capped at $5,650.

  • Employers must adhere to the quota and levy rules, while applicants must complete a medical examination before receiving their card.

  • This comprehensive guide offers insights into the S Pass application in Singapore, emphasizing the renewal procedures & requirements and the potential transition to Permanent Residency (PR).

What is S Pass?

The S Pass is a work visa for mid-skilled foreign professionals, such as journalists, accountants, and technicians, who wish to work in Singapore. Administered by the Singapore Ministry of Manpower (MOM), the S Pass is a gateway for qualified candidates to explore career opportunities in the city-state.

The S Pass initially has a validity period of up to two years, with the option for renewal. Renewal can extend the visa for up to an additional three years, providing a maximum total stay of five years for eligible candidates.

Who can apply for an S Pass?

To qualify for an S Pass in Singapore, applicant must fulfill the following criteria:

  • Job Offer: Have a job offer from a recognised employer in Singapore.

  • Education Qualifications: Hold a degree or diploma from an accredited institution. You can use this link provided by the MOM to determine if your institution is accredited or not.

  • Work Experience: Possess relevant work experience in their respective field.

  • Salary Requirements: See below section for further illustrations. 

Updated Salary Requirements for S Pass (As of 1 September 2023)

The Ministry of Manpower (MOM) has revised the minimum fixed monthly salary requirements, which are as follows:

  • General Sector: The minimum qualifying salary for new applications and renewals will now be S$3,150, increasing progressively from age 23 and capped at S$4,650 at age 45 and above.

  • Financial Services Sector: The minimum qualifying salary for new applications and renewals will now be S$3,650, increasing progressively from age 23 and capped at $5,650 at age 45 and above.

Please note that there will be further increments in the minimum salary requirements for new applications on 1 Sep 2025 and renewals starting from 1 Sep 2026. However, the details are yet to be finalized.

It's essential to note that the eligibility criteria for the S Pass differ from those of the Employment Pass, which is designed for highly skilled foreign professionals. While the Employment Pass caters to candidates with extensive job qualifications, the S Pass focuses on mid-level skilled workers, providing a more accessible work pass option for foreign talent.

Key Differences Between S Pass and Employment Pass

The Employment Pass (EP) and S Pass are two work visas issued by the Ministry of Manpower in Singapore that allow foreign nationals to work legally. While both passes serve the primary function of authorizing work, they cater to different categories of workers and have distinct eligibility criteria and requirements. Here we highlight the primary features and differences between these two passes.

Main Features of Employment Pass (EP)

The Employment Pass is tailor-made for foreign managers, specialists, executives, and professionals wanting to work in Singapore. The key eligibility criteria and benefits of an EP are:

  • Salary Requirements: A minimum fixed monthly salary of S$5,000 (or higher for older, more experienced applicants) in all sectors, excluding the financial services sector, which demands a minimum fixed monthly salary of S$5,500.

  • Qualifications: Acceptable qualifications include a recognized university degree, professional qualifications, or specialist skills.

  • Job Offer: A job offer in Singapore is a prerequisite.

  • Application Process: A Singapore-based employer must sponsor the application for an EP, which can be done online. The processing time is generally three weeks, although it may take longer for some cases.

  • Benefits: EP holders can bring certain family members to Singapore on a Dependant's Pass. Additionally, there is no official quota system for EPs, which means companies can hire as many EP holders as they need, provided they meet the Fair Consideration Framework guidelines set out by the Ministry of Manpower.

Main Features of S Pass

The S Pass is aimed at mid-level skilled staff such as technicians and professionals. The criteria for obtaining an S Pass are:

  • Salary Requirements: As of 1 September 2023, the minimum qualifying salary is S$3,150 in general sectors and S$3,650 in the financial services sector, with progressive increases based on age.

  • Qualifications: Applicants must hold a relevant degree or diploma.

  • Experience: Candidates should have many years of relevant work experience.

  • Application Process: Like the EP, the S Pass application must be sponsored by a Singapore-based employer and can be filed online. The processing time is around three weeks.

  • Quota and Levy: One key difference between the S Pass and the EP is that the S Pass is subject to a quota system, meaning that a company can only have a certain percentage of its total workforce comprised of S Pass holders. Additionally, employers are required to contribute to a levy for S Pass holders.

Understanding the distinct features of the Employment Pass and S Pass can aid potential applicants in selecting the pass that best aligns with their qualifications and career goals in Singapore.

The S Pass Application Process: Step-by-Step Guide

Embarking on the S Pass application process may initially seem daunting, but fear not! We are here to guide you through a simplified, step-by-step guide process that typically takes around three weeks to complete. Here, we will describe each phase in detail, highlighting the role and responsibilities of both the employer and the applicant.

Initiating the Application: The Role of the Employer

To kickstart the application process, the employer or an appointed employment agent must initiate and submit the S Pass application on behalf of the candidate through the EP eService provided by MOM.

This online procedure eliminates the need for the applicant to be physically present in Singapore, streaming the entire process during the application process and the need to fill out a separate S Pass application form.

The employer is responsible for providing all necessary information and documents required for the application, ensuring a smooth and hassle-free process for the applicant.

The process takes about ten business days to complete. But if the application is still pending after ten business days, MOM might request additional documents.

In-principle Approval (IPA) and Medical Examination

Upon application approval, the MOM issues an In-principle Approval (IPA) letter, which serves as a temporary pass for the applicant to enter Singapore. The employee is then emailed the pass by the employer.

This IPA letter is valid for 60 days and states whether or not the candidate requires a medical examination, which can be done in Singapore.

The medical examination, which is an essential requirement for the S Pass and must be completed before the pass is issued, also plays a role in determining the applicant's eligibility for medical insurance.

The examination ensures the applicant's good health and fitness to work in Singapore, safeguarding both the individual and the broader community.

After completing the medical examination, the applicant is one step closer to receiving their S Pass and starting their new career journey.

Issuance of the S Pass Card

Following the approval, the S Pass is issued within 60 days after receiving the in-principle approval. At this stage, the S Pass candidate must already be in Singapore when they carry out the steps necessary to get the pass issued.

Candidates will be required to:

  1. Login to the EP eService and submit the required documents and information.

  2. Pay a fee of S$100 for each pass issued via Visa, Mastercard, AMEX, or GIRO.

  3. Once the pass is issued, the employer and candidate will receive a notification letter via email. This letter, valid for one month from the issue date, will allow the candidate to start work and travel in and out of Singapore while waiting for the S Pass Card.

  4. The letter will also let the candidate know if they need their fingerprints and photo taken for the card registration.

  5. The candidate can also request to extend the validity of their notification letter if they need more time to complete the card registration process.

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S Pass Quota and Levy: What Employers Need to Know

As an employer, understanding the S Pass quota and levy system is crucial in managing your workforce and ensuring compliance with Singapore's regulations.

Understanding the S Pass Quota

The S Pass quota specifies the maximum percentage of S Pass holders that a company can hire, promoting a balanced distribution of local and foreign talents in the workforce. This quota is sector-specific; for instance, it is set at 10% in services and 15% in construction, manufacturing, marine shipyard, and process sectors. Adhering to this quota is more than a regulatory requirement; it's a strategy to foster a harmonious working environment aligned with Singapore's employment guidelines.

The Importance of the S Pass Quota

In addition to adhering to the quota, employers must pay a monthly levy for each S Pass holder under their employment. This levy serves as a financial commitment from the employer, emphasizing the importance of responsible hiring practices and workforce management. 

Failure to pay the levy on time can result in penalties, potential revocation of the S Pass, and restrictions on future pass applications.

Calculating the S Pass Levy

The tables above provide a clear breakdown of the monthly levy rates applicable to S Pass holders, based on the sector of employment and the percentage of S Pass holders in the total workforce. These monthly levy rates are crucial for employers to understand their financial obligations.

However, there might be scenarios where an S Pass holder only works for part of the month, such as when the S Pass is issued partway through the month or is canceled before the month ends. In such cases, a daily levy rate is applied to calculate the levy amount accurately for that particular month.

The formula to calculate the daily levy rate is as follows:

(Monthly levy rate x 12) / 365 = rounding up to the nearest cent. 

The levy's eligibility period commences on the day the S Pass is issued and ends on the day the pass expires or is canceled. This daily levy rate ensures that the levy amount is prorated accurately based on the actual duration of employment within the month.

The daily levy rate formula applies only to S Pass holders who only worked for a portion of the calendar month, ensuring a fair levy charge for employers..

S Pass Quota will still count towards the Work Permit Quota. 

Renewing Your S Pass: Requirements and Procedure

As the end of your S Pass validity period approaches, consider an S Pass renewal to continue working in Singapore. The good news is that the S Pass is renewable, allowing you to extend your stay for up to 30 days with the Short-Term Visit Pass. This Short-Term Visit Pass will give you time to renew your S Pass if you fail to renew before the expiry date. 

To renew your S Pass, you must meet certain requirements, including having a valid passport and fulfilling MOM's criteria as follows: 

  • The S Pass holder needs to meet existing eligibility requirements

  • The S Pass Holder needs to have a passport that’s valid for at least seven months

  • Applicants need to have sufficient S Pass Quota in their sector. 

The pass renewal process is straightforward and involves your employer or your employment agency submitting an online application through MOM EP eService on your behalf.

You can apply for S Pass renewal 180 days or six months before the Pass expires. 

Once the renewal is successful, you must print the In-Principle Approval (IPA) Letter from EP eService. This IPA is valid for 60 days. You’ll need to follow the instructions in the IPA to get your new pass issued. 

CMP workers or applicants staying in dormitories must purchase the Primary Care Plan (PCP) and declare on the EP eService that they have purchased the PCP. 

You also need to pay the levy throughout this renewal period. If the new S Pass is issued after the current one has expired, overstaying fines or levy penalties, or both, may be imposed. 

The Ministry of Manpower encourages S Pass holders to apply for renewal early. Renewing your S Pass early doesn’t mean you’ll lose the remaining days in your current pass. The duration of the new S Pass will start as soon as the current one expires. 

The entire renewal process takes about ten business days. Note that you must apply for a new one if you renew your S Pass after it expires. 

Bringing Your Family to Singapore with an S Pass

There's good news if you're an S Pass holder and wish to bring your family to Singapore. S Pass holders with a fixed monthly salary of at least S$6,000 can bring their spouse or children to the city-state. To do so, you must apply for either a Dependant's Pass or a Long-Term Visit Pass for your family members.

The application process for a Dependant's Pass or Long-Term Visit Pass requires submitting the necessary documents and paying the applicable fees.

Once the application is approved, your family members can join you in Singapore, allowing you to share your exciting career journey with your loved ones.

You can read more about acquiring a Dependant Pass for your family here. 

Switching Employers as an S Pass Holder

Changing employers as an S Pass holder is possible, provided you follow the correct procedures. To switch employers, you must have your prospective employer apply for a new S Pass on your behalf. There's no requirement to cancel your current pass before initiating this process, ensuring a seamless transition as you advance your career in Singapore.

The process is straightforward and can be completed in a few simple steps—first, your current employer. 

As mentioned earlier, an employer or appointed employment agency must apply for an S Pass on your behalf. Your current employer must cancel your S Pass at least seven days before the last day of your notice period. The Ministry of Manpower allows the S Pass cancellation request up to 14 days in advance. 

Your current employer will have up to 1 week after the S Pass holder’s last day of notice to cancel the S Pass. 

Once your current pass is canceled, your new employer will apply for a new S Pass on your behalf. In the event of delays in your transition to the new employment, you can request a 30-day STVP to ensure you stay legally in Singapore. 

All S Pass cancellations are done via the EP eService on the myMOM Portal. 

Applying for Permanent Residency (PR) as an S Pass Holder

S Pass Holders can apply for Permanent Residency (PR) in Singapore through the PTS Scheme. This is the easiest and most common scheme available to foreigners working in Singapore. 

The PTS Scheme requires a payslip of at least six months' worth of salary, and the applicant will need to be currently employed at the time of application.

You can read more about the PR schemes available to S Pass workers in the provided link. 

Summary

In conclusion, the S Pass Singapore application process offers a promising opportunity for mid-skilled foreign professionals to work and thrive in the city-state. From understanding eligibility criteria and the application process to renewing your pass and bringing your family to Singapore, this comprehensive guide has equipped you with the knowledge you need to navigate the S Pass journey.

If you need assistance in applying for or renewing your S Pass, Piloto Asia can help you. All you have to do is contact us and we’ll take care of you.

Frequently Asked Questions About Getting an S Pass

What is a Singapore S Pass?

The Singapore S Pass is a work pass that enables mid-skilled foreign employees to work and stay in Singapore, valid for two years and renewable for up to three additional years. Employers must maintain a quota and pay a levy for S Pass holders. The S Pass is usually geared towards highly skilled technicians with advanced expertise in key developing industries like chemicals, electronics, aerospace engineering, marine, pharmaceuticals, and more.

These industries are essential for Singapore's economic growth and development, and the S Pass helps to ensure that the country has access to the right talent to drive innovation and progress.

How to become a S Pass holder in Singapore?

To become an S Pass holder in Singapore, individuals need to have relevant work experience and proper qualifications and find a job with a minimum fixed monthly salary of S$3,650 for people working in the financial sectors and S$3000 for the other sectors. 

Additionally, they should be sponsored by an eligible S-Pass quota holder, have at least three years of work experience, and possess a tertiary education or trade certificate.

What is the minimum salary for S Pass?

The minimum salary for S Pass applicants is S$3,150, while those in the financial services sector must earn a minimum of S$3,650 to be considered.

These requirements are benchmarked against the top one-third of salaries earned by local associate professionals and technicians (APT) by age.

How long is the S Pass valid?

The S Pass is valid for up to two years.

What is the role of the employer in the S Pass application process?

The employer is responsible for initiating and submitting the S Pass application on behalf of the candidate using the EP Online tool.

Work Visa and ImmigrationRaymond ChanWork Visa & Immigration