Hiring from overseas in Singapore usually means an Employment Pass (EP) application. The steps are well defined, but each depends on the one before, and the timing matters to everyone, especially the candidate waiting to resign from their current job.
Eligibility criteria, salary thresholds and the COMPASS framework are updated from time to time. Always check the Ministry of Manpower's current requirements.
The checklist
1. Check eligibility
- The role and qualifications.
- The salary against the current qualifying salary for the candidate's age and sector.
- The COMPASS points, where the framework applies.
2. Advertise the job, if required
Unless the role is exempt, the job must be advertised on MyCareersFuture for the required period before applying, and local candidates considered fairly.
3. Collect the documents
- Passport details page.
- Educational certificates (and verification, if required).
- Signed offer letter or employment contract.
4. Apply on EP Online
Submit the application with the documents and fee. Note the application number.
5. Track the outcome
Track the decision and respond quickly to any request for more information.
6. In-principle approval and issuance
Send the in-principle approval (IPA) letter to the candidate, arrange their arrival, and request issuance of the pass. Book fingerprint and photo registration if required.
Running many applications
For HR teams and visa consultants handling several applications at once:
- give each application its own timeline;
- track the advertising period end date;
- keep the candidate informed at each step;
- note the pass expiry for renewal later.
How MSMEPulse helps
MSMEPulse includes an Employment Pass application template with eligibility, advertising, submission, IPA and issuance as tasks and milestones, and the candidate's documents on a checklist. Visa consultants can invoice by stage, and HR teams can track each hire alongside the rest of their onboarding.
