Singapore has updated the procedure for obtaining a work permit and simplified the rules for obtaining a residence permit based on a student visa. Find out what will change for expats and when the new rules will come into effect

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Singapore's migration policy is aimed at attracting highly qualified specialists and young talents. That is why the state is actively working on changing the rules for obtaining study and work permits. The new rules for foreigners in Singapore, which were approved in 2024, are discussed below.

Singapore Employment Pass

Singapore's Ministry of Manpower (MOM) has announced significant changes in the procedure for submitting documents for an Employment Pass - a Singapore work permit. In particular, the salary benchmarks for obtaining a permit were updated. The new criteria will affect both new applications for work permits and the procedure for renewing existing documents.

According to government officials, such changes can ensure that Singaporean companies hire the best workers.

Salary benchmarks will work according to the COMPASS point system.

Importantly! An Employment Pass (EP) is a work permit issued by the Singapore government to foreign professionals wishing to work there. To qualify, you usually need to meet certain salary thresholds and have relevant qualifications.

Changes to the salary threshold for obtaining a work permit in Singapore

For both new applications and renewals, candidates will need to meet the following qualifying salary thresholds:

1. General Sectors - At least S$5,600 per month (currently S$5,000 per month).

2. Financial Services - At least S$6,200 per month (currently S$5,600 per month).

- When will the new wage rates in Singapore come into effect?

1. For new applicants

The previous indicators of the wage level will remain valid until December 31, 2024. That is, the revised salary benchmarks will apply to all initial EP applications from 1 January 2025 onwards.

2. To extend the work permit

For EP renewal applications, the current table will apply to passes expiring between September 1, 2024 and June 30, 2025. The new indicators will be applied after July 1, 2025.

 COMPASS scoring system for evaluating applicants

At the same time, the Singaporean authorities announced a strengthening of the rules for participation in the Employment Pass immigration scheme, introducing the COMPASS points system.

Expats applying for an Employment Pass will be awarded points based on various criteria:

- Education and skills – points are awarded based on the candidate's education, qualifications and professional skills, etc.

- Contribution to development - points are awarded if the hiring of the applicant will make a significant contribution to the expansion, diversity and inclusion of the hiring company (in terms of citizenship of the staff and other points).

- Salary – candidates receive points if their salary exceeds the salary of 65% of local workers in similar positions.

To obtain an Employment Pass (EP), employers must accumulate at least 40 COMPASS points.

Professionals earning a fixed monthly salary of at least S$22,500 are exempt from COMPASS,

The new procedure will start in September 2024.

In order to safely move, travel or work in a new country, you will need health insurance. You can issue an extended policy on our website using the link.

Singapore Student Pass

New rules for obtaining a permanent residence permit for foreign students

The Singapore authorities have simplified the procedure for obtaining a permanent residence permit for foreign students.

Under the new rules, Student Pass holders can now apply for permanent residency in Singapore if:

1. Passed at least one national exam – the Primary School Leaving Examination (PSLE) or the General Certificate of Education (GCE) exam with grades “N”, “O” or “ A".

2. They attend courses on adaptation to the local community within the framework of the Integrated Program (English: Integrated Program) - this is a six-year course that ends with: the GCE exam (grade “A” is required), the International Baccalaureate diploma (English: International Baccalaureate; IB ) or obtaining a certificate of general secondary education at the National University of Singapore (English: National University of Singapore; NUS).

Previously, a foreigner had to study in Singapore for at least 2 years to be eligible for a permanent residence permit.

- What are the benefits of a foreign student with a permanent residence permit in Singapore?

Based on the document, an expat can live, work and travel to and from Singapore without visa restrictions. In particular, permanent residents can safely work in Singapore companies without the need for periodic visa extensions.

Importantly! However, before applying for a permanent residence permit in Singapore, an overseas student must obtain a Student Pass. The procedure for obtaining a permit has not changed. Foreigners admitted to full-time studies in Singapore receive a Student Pass.

Changes to guardian visas for international students

The Singaporean authorities have expanded the range of persons who are entitled to receive a Long-Term Visit Pass (LTVP) based on accompanying relatives studying in Singapore after obtaining a Student Pass.

Male guardians (father, grandfather, great-grandfather) were added to the list of persons.

Previously, only female guardians (mother, grandmother, great-grandmother) could apply for LTVP on this basis. This change allows a guardian, regardless of gender, to accompany and support the student during the course of study in Singapore.

Importantly! Only one guardian is allowed to accompany the student.

Further changes in visa policy reflect Singapore's commitment to attracting and retaining talented foreigners, while revised salary benchmarks and Employment Pass eligibility criteria demonstrate the country's continued efforts to balance business needs with the development of a strong local workforce.

We will remind you! A high standard of living, a developed economy and high-quality social security attract expats from different parts of the world to Singapore. Read in this article where foreigners work in Singapore, what conditions and what types of visas are available for moving.