Immigration update: Singapore | Salary requirements change for work pass
Changes in the salary requirements for Singapore work pass applications
The Ministry of Manpower (MOM) has updated the salary requirements and a change in the Fair Consideration Framework (FCF) as part of the work pass application process in order to ensure fair employment practices amongst Singapore employers.
Who will be affected?
Employers and foreign applicants applying for Employment Pass (EP) and S Pass will be affected by this change.
Background
The Singaporean Government is always encouraging foreign businesses to expand and grow their business in Singapore, with a focus on encouraging fair employment practice.
The latest revisions in EP and S Pass considerations is in line with the government’s approach in ensuring a level playing field for experienced local mid-career professionals, managers, executives and technicians.
Implementation
Employment Pass (EP)
From 1 September 2020, the minimum qualifying salary for an Employment Pass (EP) will be raised from SGD3,900 to SGD4,500 for new applications.
The salary criteria for older, more experienced candidates in their 40s will also be raised in tandem.
The new salary criteria will apply to renewal applications from 1 May 2021.
New EP applicants in the financial services sector will need to meet minimum salary criteria of at least SGD5,000 from 01 December 2020.
S Pass
From 01 October 2020, the qualifying salary will be raised from SGD2,400 to SGD2,500 for new S Pass applications. The salary criteria for older, more experienced candidates will also be raised in tandem.
The new salary criteria will apply to renewal applications from 1 May 2021.
Fair Consideration Framework (FCF) to be included EP and S Pass Applications with effect 1 October 2020.
FCF job advertisement requirements will be extended to all new S Pass applications. Employers are now required to open the job advertisement to 28 calendar days from the previous 14 calendar days.
Santa Fe Analysis
Even though Singapore continues to welcome businesses, the government is also looking to ensure that local employers strengthens their local workforce and build up a strong Singapore core.
Employers should take fair hiring seriously and consider local applicants, regardless of their gender, age, etc. The authorities take a very serious view against employers who practice discriminatory hiring of any form.
Should you have any questions, please contact:
Ai Leng Chew
Immigration Manager
Santa Fe Relocation
Singapore
D: +65 6398 3004
E: Aileng.Chew@santaferelo.com
Robert Day
Group Head of Immigration Operations
Santa Fe Relocation
D: +44 7990 021125
Email: Robert.Day@santaferelo.com
To read more immigration updates, click here
About our Immigration Services
Our immigration services manage thousands of visa applications every year for a multitude of international companies. Our experienced immigration experts and migration agents handle the immigration process for you and provide simple reporting and guidance on immigration matters.
