Differences Between S Pass and Employment Pass
Singapore’s work pass system is designed to accommodate different types of foreign professionals. But how do you know if S Pass vs E Pass is the right fit? Understanding the differences is important for compliance and your career planning.
S Pass vs E Pass—which is the right choice for your needs? Let’s break down the differences so you can make the best decision!
What is an S Pass?
The S Pass is for mid-skilled workers in various industries, such as manufacturing and services, who meet specific qualifications, relevant work experience, and lower salary threshold to the Employment Pass (EP). To qualify candidates must earn a fixed monthly salary that aligns with the top one-third of local Associate Professionals and Technician (APT) salaries. This starts at SDG 3,150 and increases with age, reaching up to SDG 4,650 for workers in their mid-40s.
Additionally, S Pass applications are subject to quota (Dependency Ratio Ceiling) and levy rules, which vary by sectors, such as:
| Sector | DRC |
| Construction | 83.3% |
| Process | 83.3% |
| Marine shipyard | 77.8% |
| Manufacturing | 60% |
| Services | 35% |
S Pass holders cannot exceed 10% of a company’s total workforce, while in construction, manufacturing, marine shipyard, and process sectors, the cap is 15%. Employers must also pay a monthly levy for each S Pass holder.
For the services sector, the levy rate is as follows:
| Tier | Quota % | Monthly levy rate | Daily levy rate |
| Basic / Tier 1 | Up to 10% of the total workforce | $550 (will be $650 from 1 Sep 2025) | $18.09 (will be $21.37 from 1 Sep 2025) |
For all sectors (excluding services), the levy rate is as follows:
| Tier | Quota % | Monthly levy rate | Daily levy rate |
| Basic / Tier 1 | Up to 10% of the total workforce | $550 (will be $650 from 1 Sep 2025) | $18.09 (will be $21.37 from 1 Sep 2025) |
| Tier 2 | Above 10% to 15% of the total workforce | $650 | $21.37 |
What Is an Employment Pass?
The Employment Pass (EP) is for highly skilled professionals, managers, and executives with strong qualifications and relevant experience. To qualify, candidates must meet a minimum monthly salary of SGD 5,000, which increases with age, reaching up to SGD 10,500 for those in their mid-40s. Unlike the S Pass, it doesn’t require foreign worker levy or quota .
Key Differences Between S Pass and Employment Pass
Still confused about the differences between S Pass vs E Pass? We have simplified the key eligibility criteria so you can confidently decide which pass suits your needs.
| Aspect | S Pass | Employment Pass (EP) |
| Skill Level | Mid-skilled workers | Professionals, managers, and executives |
| Salary Requirement | Earn a fixed monthly salary of at least SDG 3,150. | Earn a fixed monthly salary of at least SDG 5,000. The salary will vary depending on the sector and years of work experience. |
| Quota & Levy | Applicable | Not applicable |
| Education or Work Experience | Candidates must hold a degree, diploma, or technical certificate (minimum one-year full-time study) and relevant work experience are required for eligibility | Candidates should hold an accredited university degree, industry-recognized professional qualifications, or proven specialized skills relevant to their role |
| Validity | Up to 2 years, with the possibility of a 3 year renewal, if both the employer and employee continue to meet MOM’s requirements | Up to 2 years and can be renewed for up to 3 years, depending on the terms of employment and compliance with the Ministry of Manpower’s (MOM) guidelines. However, experienced tech professionals with skills in shortage may be eligible for a longer 5-year duration pass. |
| Dependent Privileges | Limited eligibility for family passes | Eligibility for family passes (Dependent Pass, Long Term Visit Pass) |
How to Decide Between S Pass vs E Pass?
Deciding between an S Pass vs E Pass or Employment Pass (EP) in Singapore depends on several factors, including your qualifications, salary, job role, and long-term career goals. Here’s a breakdown to help you decide:
- Qualification and Salary
If you have a high-level degree and earn a salary above SGD 4,500, E Pass might be more suitable. However, for mid-skilled roles with a salary around SGD 2,500 to SGD 3,150, the S Pass is more appropriate. - Consider the Job Role
Employment Pass is ideal for managerial, executive, or specialized positions, whereas S Pass is better for technical or mid-skilled roles. - Evaluate Long-Term Goals
If you aim for faster PR eligibility and family sponsorship, it is preferable to choose E Pass. However, If you’re looking for a stepping stone with potential for future PR, S Pass could be a viable option.
Challenges in Application and Renewal
Both employers and applicants may face challenges when applying for or renewing an S Pass vs E Pass in Singapore, which are:
1. Challenges in S Pass Application and Renewal
Applying for an S Pass comes with challenges. Quota limits restrict the number of S Pass holders a company can hire, making workforce planning difficult. You also have to ensure the document verification meets the standard, as any discrepancies can lead to rejections. Employers must also meet levy requirements, which can impact cash flow. If an application is rejected, employers must provide additional proof of skills, salary, or updated company details for a successful appeal.
Moreover, renewal depends on meeting eligibility criteria, including salary and job requirements. Employers must submit accurate, updated documents to avoid delays. Since processing takes time, applying early is crucial to prevent penalties or pass cancellation.
2. Challenges in E Pass Application and Renewal
Applying for an Employment Pass (EP) in Singapore can be challenging due to strict requirements. Common issues include incomplete documents, difficulty in justifying the need for foreign hires, and meeting the minimum salary of SGD 5,000, which is often higher for certain sectors. Applicants must also have qualifications that match the job role. The COMPASS framework adds another assessment layer, requiring a minimum score to qualify.
Additionally, renewing an Employment Pass (EP) is also challenging because it requires meeting salary and job criteria, submitting updated documents on time, and complying with the COMPASS framework if applicable. Employers must also maintain a balanced local-to-foreign worker ratio.
To overcome these challenges, employers and applicants should plan carefully, ensure all necessary documents are in order, and use tools like MOM’s Self-Assessment Tool to verify eligibility before applying or renewing an S Pass vs E Pass.
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Many professionals and employers struggle to understand the difference between S Pass vs E Pass or Employment Pass, but you’re not the only one facing this challenge. One Tax CM specializes in helping businesses and individuals secure the right work passes seamlessly.
Whether you’re applying for an S Pass or Employment Pass, our experienced team ensures a smooth process, from eligibility assessment to application submission. Contact One Tax CM today at +65 6708 9369 or visit www.onetaxcm.com to simplify your work pass journey in Singapore.
FAQ
- What is the minimum salary requirement for an S Pass vs E Pass?
The minimum salary for S Pass is SGD 3,150 for most sectors, with SGD 3,650 required for the financial services sector. However, for Employment Pass, the minimum salary is at least SGD 5,000 for most roles. - Can I bring my family to Singapore with an S Pass vs E Pass?
Yes. Family members can join if the S Pass holder earns at least SGD 6,000 per month, but only for a Dependent’s Pass; other family members may require a Long-Term Visit Pass. Employment Pass is also eligible to apply for Dependant’s Passes or Long-Term Visit Passes for family members. - What are the key differences between S Pass vs E Pass?
S Pass is for mid-skilled workers with a lower salary threshold and subject to quota restrictions. Conversely, Employment Pass id for high-skilled professionals with no quota restrictions and a higher salary requirement. - How long does it take to process an S Pass vs E Pass application?
Both S Pass and Employment Pass applications typically take around three weeks to process. - Can I renew my S Pass vs E Pass?
Yes. S Pass is renewable for up to three additional years if eligibility criteria are still met and Employment Pass is renewable typically for 1 to 2 years, provided eligibility criteria are maintained.