Singapore is one of the world’s leading business and employment hubs, attracting professionals, skilled workers, entrepreneurs, and students from across the globe. If you are a foreigner planning to work in Singapore—or an employer engaging foreign talent—it is mandatory to hold a valid work pass before commencing employment.

This guide provides an overview of the different Singapore work passes, who they are for, and their general eligibility criteria.

Work Passes for Professionals

These passes are designed for foreign professionals, executives, specialists, and entrepreneurs.

Employment Pass (EP)

Suitable for foreign professionals, managers, executives, and technicians. Applicants must earn at least SGD 5,600 per month and meet the requirements under the Complementarity Assessment Framework (COMPASS).

EntrePass

For foreign entrepreneurs who wish to start and operate a business in Singapore, particularly businesses that are venture-backed or based on innovative technologies.

Personalised Employment Pass (PEP)

Designed for high-earning Employment Pass holders or overseas foreign professionals. This pass offers greater job flexibility compared to the standard Employment Pass.

Overseas Networks & Expertise Pass (ONE Pass)

For top-tier global talent in business, arts and culture, sports, academia, and research, recognising exceptional achievements and expertise.

Work Passes for Skilled and Semi-Skilled Workers

These passes support industries that require skilled manpower across various sectors.

S Pass

For skilled workers earning a minimum monthly salary of SGD 3,300, subject to sector-specific requirements and quotas.

Work Permit for Migrant Workers

For skilled and semi-skilled workers employed in sectors such as construction, manufacturing, marine shipyard, process, and services.

Work Permit for Migrant Domestic Workers (MDW)

For foreign domestic workers employed by households in Singapore.

Work Permit for Confinement Nanny

Applicable to Malaysian confinement nannies, allowing them to work in Singapore for up to 16 weeks from the birth of the employer’s child.

Work Permit for Performing Artistes

For foreign performers working in public entertainment outlets such as bars, hotels, and nightclubs.Note: This scheme will be discontinued from 1 June 2026.

Work Passes for Trainees and Students

Singapore also offers work pass options for training, internships, and holiday employment.

Training Employment Pass

For foreign professionals undergoing practical training in Singapore, with a minimum salary of SGD 3,000 per month.

Work Holiday Pass (Work Holiday Programme)

For students and graduates aged 18 to 25, allowing them to work and holiday in Singapore for up to 6 months.

Work Holiday Pass (Work and Holiday Visa Programmes)

For Australian and New Zealand students and graduates aged 18 to 30, valid for up to 12 months.

Training Work Permit

For semi-skilled foreign trainees or students undertaking practical training in Singapore for up to 6 months.

Passes for Family Members

Family members of eligible work pass holders may also qualify to stay and work in Singapore.

Dependant’s Pass

For spouses and children of eligible Employment Pass or S Pass holders.

Long-Term Visit Pass (LTVP)

For parents, common-law spouses, step-children, or handicapped children of eligible EP or S Pass holders.

Pre-approved Letter of Consent (PLOC)

For eligible spouses or children of Singapore citizens or permanent residents holding an LTVP or LTVP+. This allows them to work without a separate work pass.

Letter of Consent (LOC)

For LTVP/LTVP+ holders issued by ICA. The employer must apply for the LOC on the applicant’s behalf.

Letter of Consent for Dependant’s Pass Holders Who Are Business Owners

Allows eligible Dependant’s Pass holders to operate a business in Singapore.

Exemptions and Short-Term Work Options

Certain activities allow foreigners to work in Singapore without a traditional work pass.

Miscellaneous Work Pass

For foreign speakers, religious workers, or journalists on short-term assignments of up to 60 days.

Work Pass Exempt Activities

For eligible short-term activities that do not require a work pass. However, notification to MOM is still required.

Work Pass Exemption for Foreign Students

For full-time students holding a Student’s Pass issued by ICA and studying at approved institutions.

Work Passes for ICA-Issued Long-Term Visit Pass Holders

Applicable to foreigners married to Singapore citizens or permanent residents, or parents accompanying a child studying in Singapore.