If you’ve been assigned to work in Singapore by your company, you may be eligible for various work passes, including the Singapore Employment Pass (EP). Here’s a comprehensive guide to qualifying for and applying for the EP, along with how MVG can assist you through the process.
What is the Employment Pass?
The Employment Pass (EP) is a Singapore work visa issued by the Ministry of Manpower to foreign professionals, managers, and directors of Singaporean companies. It enables you to live and work in Singapore and travel in and out of the country without needing entry visas.
Typically valid for 1-2 years, the EP can be renewed upon expiry. Holding an EP also facilitates the application process for permanent residency (PR) in Singapore.
Eligibility Criteria for the Employment Pass
To qualify for an EP, you need to:
Earn a Minimum Salary: Draw a minimum fixed monthly salary of S$4,500. This requirement generally applies to young graduates, while more experienced candidates may need to meet higher salary thresholds.
Hold a Relevant Position: Work in a managerial, executive, or specialized role.
Possess a Tertiary Degree: Have a degree from a reputable university. However, substantial professional experience and a high salary can offset a lack of formal education.
Please note that these are general guidelines; each application is reviewed individually by the authorities. There is no cap on the number of EPs that can be issued to a Singaporean company.
Required Documents for EP Application
When applying for an EP, you need to submit:
EP Application Form 8 endorsed by the employing Singapore company.
A copy of your latest resume and relevant educational certificates.
References or testimonials from previous employers.
A passport-sized photograph taken within the past three months.
A copy of the personal particulars page of your passport.
A copy of the business profile of the employing Singapore company.
A detailed description of your job duties.
A detailed description of the company’s activities and/or products.
Additional supporting documents may be required, and any non-English documents must be officially translated into English.
MVG’s Services
MVG offers tailored support to streamline your EP application:
Guidance: We provide expert advice on meeting eligibility criteria and preparing necessary documents.
Document Preparation: We assist with compiling and translating documents to ensure compliance with requirements.
Application Support: MVG helps navigate the application process, from form submission to dealing with any queries from the Ministry of Manpower (MOM).
How to Apply and Processing Time
You can file your EP application in two ways:
Online Application: If the employing Singapore company has an EP online account, applications submitted online are usually processed within 3 weeks.
Manual Application: Allows for attachment of all supporting documents and is processed within approximately 8 weeks.
Processing time may vary depending on factors such as company credentials, applicant qualifications, and document availability.
Approval and Collection of Employment Pass
Upon approval, the Ministry of Manpower will send an In-Principle Approval (IPA) letter to the employing Singapore company. The IPA letter is valid for 6 months. To collect your pass, you need to:
Travel to Singapore with the IPA letter, your passport, and any other documents requested in the letter.
Obtain a one-time entry visa to enter Singapore and collect your EP.
You may also need to undergo a medical test, which can be done either in your home country or upon arrival in Singapore.
If you applied for Dependent’s Passes (DP) or Long-Term Visit Passes (LTVP) for family members, you can collect these simultaneously.
Bringing Your Family to Singapore
If you earn a minimum fixed monthly salary of S$6,000, your family members can join you in Singapore. They can apply for:
Dependent’s Pass (DP): For spouses and children, automatically approved once the EP is granted and expires simultaneously.
Long-Term Visit Pass (LTVP): For common-law spouses, unmarried handicapped children (over 21), unmarried step-children (under 21), and parents (if you earn S$12,000 or more per month).
In Case of Rejection
If your EP application is rejected, contact MVG. We will work with MOM to understand the reasons and assist in submitting an appeal if appropriate. Appeals are typically processed within 4-6 weeks.
Renewing Your Employment Pass
Three months before your EP expires, a renewal form will be sent to your employer. Ensure the renewal application is completed and submitted to MOM at least four weeks before the EP’s expiration. Upon approval, you’ll need to visit the MOM office to collect your renewed EP.
For further details on Employment Passes, refer to the Employment Pass FAQs or contact MVG for personalized assistance.
