Introduction
Singapore is one of Asia’s top business hubs, attracting international professionals, entrepreneurs, and workers. Located in a strategic location, it has a strong economy, and its living standards are high, which makes it a prime destination for foreign workers. Obtaining a valid work visa (also known as a work pass) is necessary for immigrants to work legally in Singapore. Skills, qualifications, and the type of job determine what type of visa you need.
The Main Categories of Singapore Work Visas
1. EP (Employment Pass)
- Designed for professionals, managers, and executives from abroad.
Criteria:
- A salary of at least SGD 5,000 per month (higher for older applicants).
- A degree, diploma, or specialized skill that has been recognized.
- The validity period is 1–2 years, renewable.
Benefits:
- Can apply for Permanent Residency (PR) after a few years.
2. S Pass
- Designed for mid-skilled workers in industries such as manufacturing, logistics, or services.
Criteria:
- A monthly salary of at least SGD 3,150 is required.
- Work experience or qualifications relevant to the position.
- Quotas must be met by the employer (only a certain percentage of S Pass holders may be employed).
- Term of validity: 2 years, renewable.
3. Foreign Worker’s Work Permit
- Designed for semi-skilled and unskilled workers in construction, manufacturing, marine, and service industries.
Criteria:
- No minimum education requirement, but there are age limits (18–50).
- The applicant must come from a country approved by the company (e.g., Malaysia, India, Bangladesh, China, Philippines).
- Repatriation, medical care, and housing are all the responsibility of the employer.
- Validity: 2 years, based on employer.
4. Foreign Domestic Workers (FDW) Work Permit
- Specifically for Indonesian, Myanmarese, and Philippine domestic helpers.
Criteria:
- The age range is 23 to 50.
- Skills relevant to domestic work and basic education.
- A levy must be paid by the employer and housing must be provided.
- Validity: 2 years, tied to employer.
5. PEP (Personal Employment Pass)
- Designed for highly skilled foreign professionals.
Criteria:
- The last fixed monthly salary drawn was at least SGD 22,500.
- There is no need to be tied to a specific employer (more flexibility).
- Validity: 3 years, non-extendable.
Note:
- Singapore’s best option for professionals seeking career flexibility.
6. EntrePass
- Designed for foreign entrepreneurs who want to start and run businesses in Singapore.
Criteria:
- Start a business in an innovative field, such as technology or R&D.
- Business plan and funding proof required.
- Validity: 1 year (renewable if business is successful).
7. Work Permit / Employment Pass for Training
- In Singapore, industrial training is available to foreign students and trainees.
Criteria:
- Must be sponsored by a Singaporean company.
- This training program is designed for short-term (up to six months) training.
Singaporean Workers’ Salary Expectations
- Unskilled jobs: SGD 1,500 – SGD 2,500 per month.
- Mid-skilled (S Pass): SGD 3,150 – SGD 5,000 per month.
- Professional roles (EP/PEP): SGD 5,000 – SGD 15,000+ per month.
Singapore’s Benefits of Working There
- Comparatively high income for an Asian country.
- Tax-friendly system (progressive, low personal tax rates).
- Safety and healthcare standards that are world-class.
- The possibility of applying for Permanent Residency after several years.
Challenges to Be Considered
- The cost of living is high (especially housing and transportation).
- Work permit regulations are strict – jobs must meet government quotas.
- Flexibility is often limited by employer-dependent work permits.
How to Apply for a Singapore Work Visa
- Make an offer of employment – Foreign workers usually apply on behalf of their employers.
- Application submitted by employer – To Singapore’s Ministry of Manpower (MOM).
- Issuance & Approval – Workers receive In-Principle Approvals (IPAs) on successful completion of the application process.
- Arrival in Singapore – Collect the work pass and start employment.
A Few Last Tips for Immigrants
- Make sure your education, experience, and job offer are compatible with the right visa.
- Make sure job offers are verified through legitimate recruitment channels.
- Consider starting with an S Pass or Work Permit, then upgrading to EP or PR.
- To adapt easily, learn some basic English and local culture.
