Hiring Foreign Professionals in Singapore: EP Process for Employers

Hiring Foreign Professionals in Singapore: EP Process for Employers

Singapore is a top destination for global business and innovation. With a highly educated workforce, low corporate tax rates, and a strategic location, it’s no wonder companies seek to expand or set up operations here. As businesses grow, many find the need to hire foreign professionals to meet skills gaps, support regional expansion, or bring in senior-level expertise.

To do this legally and effectively, employers must apply for an Employment Pass (EP) from the Ministry of Manpower (MOM) for their foreign hires. In this article, we walk you through the complete EP process for employers in Singapore, from understanding eligibility requirements to ensuring a smooth application and compliance with regulations.

If you’d like support to simplify this process and avoid costly rejections, consult https://employmentpassapplication.sg/ — a trusted partner in employment pass services for Singapore employers.

What Is an Employment Pass (EP)?

The Employment Pass is a work visa that allows foreign professionals to live and work in Singapore. It is issued to individuals who are employed in managerial, executive, or specialized roles and meet the eligibility criteria laid out by MOM.

As of 2025, the core requirements for an EP include:

• A minimum monthly salary of SGD 5,000 (increasing with age and experience)

• A recognized degree or professional qualification

• A job offer from a Singapore-registered company

• A role that fits under PME (Professionals, Managers, Executives) categories

Why Employers Hire Foreign Professionals

While Singapore promotes local talent development, it also recognizes the need for global expertise in areas like finance, IT, engineering, and regional market management.

Employers typically hire foreign professionals when:

• The required skill set is not readily available locally

• The role demands international experience or language fluency

• The candidate brings specialized knowledge, innovation, or leadership

• The company is expanding regionally and needs talent familiar with foreign markets

Employer’s Responsibilities Before Applying

Before submitting an EP application, employers must ensure the following:

1. Proper Job Advertising (Fair Consideration Framework)

   • Employers must advertise the position on MyCareersFuture.sg for at least 14 days.

   • This is to give Singaporeans fair access to available jobs.

   • Only specific exemptions apply (e.g., jobs paying over SGD 22,500/month or for companies with ≤10 employees).

2. COMPASS Framework Understanding

   • Singapore uses the Complementarity Assessment Framework (COMPASS) for EP evaluation.

   • Employers must score at least 40 points across 4 criteria: salary, qualifications, diversity, and local employment support.

3. Company Profile

   • Ensure your company has a valid ACRA registration and is compliant with MOM policies.

   • A balanced foreign-to-local employee ratio strengthens your application.

Step-by-Step EP Application Process for Employers

Step 1: Collect Required Information and Documents

Gather the necessary documents to ensure a smooth application:

• Passport copy of the applicant

• Detailed resume/CV

• Certified degree or professional qualifications

• Job offer letter with salary and role details

• Company ACRA Business Profile

• Job description and organizational chart (optional but helpful)

Step 2: Submit the Application via EP Online

The employer or an authorized EP agent must submit the application through MOM’s EP Online portal.

• Application fee: SGD 105

• Fill in all required fields accurately, including:

  • Applicant details

  • Job scope and responsibilities

  • Salary and benefits

  • Educational qualifications

Once submitted, you will receive a Transaction Reference Number for tracking.

Step 3: Wait for MOM’s Decision

Processing usually takes around 3 weeks, although it can be faster or longer depending on the complexity.

During this time, MOM may:

• Request additional documents or clarification

• Evaluate the application under the COMPASS framework

• Assess the company’s past hiring record and quota usage

Step 4: Receive the In-Principle Approval (IPA) Letter

If approved, MOM issues an In-Principle Approval (IPA) letter, which is valid for 6 months. This letter allows the foreign professional to:

• Enter Singapore (if not already in-country)

• Proceed with pass issuance formalities

• Complete any medical examination (if required)

Step 5: Complete Pass Issuance

Once the applicant is in Singapore, the employer must:

• Log in to EP Online to request issuance of the EP

• Submit personal contact details and residential address

• Schedule an appointment for biometric registration

• Pay the issuance fee: SGD 225

• Provide a medical examination report if requested

The EP card will be delivered within a few working days after all procedures are complete.

What Happens If the EP Is Rejected?

If your application is rejected, don’t panic. MOM typically provides reasons for the rejection, which may include:

• Salary not meeting the expected benchmark

• Job scope too generic or misaligned

• Educational qualifications not recognized

• Poor company compliance history

Employers can submit an appeal within 3 months. When appealing:

• Address the specific rejection reasons

• Include additional documentation or clarifications

• Consider modifying the job scope or salary

Many companies work with https://employmentpassapplication.sg/ to professionally handle appeals and resubmit stronger cases.

Key Best Practices for Employers

To improve approval chances and maintain compliance:

1. Be transparent and accurate in the application

2. Ensure the salary is aligned with industry benchmarks

3. Provide a detailed and specific job description

4. Demonstrate the value of hiring foreign talent

5. Maintain a healthy foreign-local workforce ratio

6. Engage professional EP service providers to reduce errors

What About Renewals and Transfers?

Employment Passes are renewable every 1–3 years depending on the case. If the employee continues under the same role and employer, renewals are straightforward but still evaluated based on updated salary benchmarks and COMPASS scoring.

If the foreign professional switches employers, a new EP application must be submitted by the new hiring company. There is no automatic transfer, and the application is treated as a fresh submission.

Can EP Holders Bring Their Families?

Yes, if the employee earns SGD 6,000/month or more, they can apply for Dependant’s Passes (DP) for their spouse and children. For Long-Term Visit Passes (LTVP) (e.g., for parents), the minimum salary threshold is SGD 12,000/month.

Employers should be aware of these limits when structuring offers for foreign hires planning to relocate with their families.

Conclusion

Hiring foreign professionals in Singapore can bring immense value to your company — from niche skill sets to international perspectives. However, it’s essential to follow the proper Employment Pass process and ensure that both the employer and candidate meet MOM’s stringent requirements.

The EP application is no longer a formality. MOM now takes a holistic approach, considering salary, qualifications, diversity, and support for local employment. Employers must be proactive in planning, documentation, and compliance.

To ensure a smooth, successful hiring journey, engage with https://employmentpassapplication.sg/ — your expert partner in Singapore’s Employment Pass process. From initial consultation to appeals and renewals, their team is ready to support you every step of the way.