S Pass Application Services for Employers in Singapore
What is the S Pass?
The S Pass is a work pass in Singapore for skilled foreign workers, like Associate Professionals and Technicians (APTs). It’s a great option for employers who want to bring in talent that may not quite meet the criteria for an Employment Pass (EP).
To be eligible, new candidates need to earn at least $3,150 a month. Employers also need to keep in mind that there’s a quota for hiring S Pass holders. It’s a way for skilled professionals from abroad to contribute to Singapore’s vibrant workforce.
Step-by-Step S Pass Application Process
Step 1:
1. Submit an Application
Who: Employer or Employment Agent (EA)
Processing Time:
- If applying online: Around 10 business days for most cases.
- If the employer is an overseas company without a Singapore-registered entity: Around 8 weeks.
What to keep in mind:
- Employers need to advertise the job on MyCareersFuture and fairly consider all candidates before applying.
- First-time applicants must declare their business activity.
- The company must have a Central Provident Fund (CPF) account to determine its S Pass quota.
Step 2
2. Prepare for Arrival in Singapore
Who: Employer
No set timeline for this step, but it’s important to get things ready before the candidate arrives.
One key thing to check is the passport validity - it needs to be at least 7 months. The S Pass will only be issued for up to one month before the passport expires.
Step 3:
3. Get the Pass Issued
Who: Employer or EA
Processing Time: Immediate
Once the pass is issued, the candidate is officially allowed to start work.
Step 4:
4. (If Required): Register Fingerprints & Photo
Who: Candidate
Some candidates may need to visit an MOM service center for biometric registration, but this step doesn’t apply to everyone.
Step 5:
5. Receive the S Pass Card
Who: Candidate or authorised recipient
Processing Time: Within 5 working days after biometric registration or document verification.
What about family passes?
- You can apply for them at the same time as the S Pass, but if the main pass is rejected, you won’t get a refund for the family pass application fees.
- To avoid this risk, it’s best to apply for family passes only after the S Pass is approved.
Who Can Apply for an S Pass?
If you're a foreign professional looking to work in Singapore, you might be eligible for an S Pass!
Here’s what you need:
- A job offer from a Singapore-based employer.
- A fixed monthly salary that meets the minimum requirement, which varies by sector and age:
Since the required salary increases with age, older applicants will need to meet a higher threshold.
Not sure if you qualify? No worries - just reach out, and we’ll guide you through the process!
S Pass Application Requirements
If you're looking to apply for an S Pass in Singapore, here’s a quick rundown of what you’ll need:
What You’ll Need
- Passport details – Your personal information and a recent photograph.
- Singapore contact details – The address where you’ll be staying in Singapore.
- Medical documents – A completed medical report dated not more than 6 months prior
- Immigration status – If you’re already in Singapore, you’ll need details of your current pass.
- Employment details – A job offer letter outlining your position and salary.
- Education & certifications – Certified copies of your degrees, diplomas, or professional licenses.
- Verification documents - If your institution does not appear in the drop down menu, you will need to submit verification documents.
- Work experience – Documents showing relevant experience.
Things to Keep in Mind
- Your employer will apply for the S Pass on your behalf.
- There’s a minimum salary requirement, which depends on your industry and qualifications.
- Companies have a quota, so employers need to make sure they have available slots for S Pass holders.
- MOM may verify your education and work history during the process.
Having all your documents ready will make things a lot smoother for everyone!
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Applying for an S Pass
To make sure your S Pass application goes smoothly, here are a few common mistakes you’ll want to avoid:
1. Incorrect or Missing Documents
It’s easy to forget a document or two, so make sure all your paperwork—like certificates, contracts, and passport details—is complete and accurate.
2. Salary Discrepancies
Check that the salary you’re listing meets the minimum requirement for the role. It’s a small detail but super important.
3. Exceeding the Company’s S Pass Quota
Before applying, double-check if your company has available slots for S Pass holders. You don’t want to find out too late that the quota’s full.
4. Misrepresentation of Qualifications or Work Experience
Honesty is key. Don’t exaggerate or misrepresent your qualifications or experience, as it can delay or even derail your application.
5. Poor Application Review
Take a moment to carefully review your application before submitting it—small mistakes in personal details or documents can cause big delays.
6. Job Advertisement Mismatch
If you’re using a job ad to support your application, make sure the details—like the role and salary—align with what’s in the S Pass application.
7. Ignoring Eligibility Criteria
Make sure you meet all the S Pass requirements, such as age, qualifications, and work experience, before you submit.
8. Late Submission
It’s always a good idea to submit your application early to avoid any last-minute issues.
By keeping these points in mind, you’ll have a much smoother application process.
S Pass Application Fees and Processing Time
Processing Time
It usually takes up to 8 weeks to process the application, depending on things like the applicant’s qualifications and the company’s quota compliance. The processing time can vary a little, as it’s up to the local authorities.
How to Apply
The employer or an appointed agent will need to submit the application through the EP eService on behalf of the applicant. Once the pass is issued, both the employer and applicant will get a notification by email.
Renewing an S Pass
You can begin the renewal process up to 6 months before the pass expires, also through the EP eService.