Singapore Updated Employment Pass Eligibility Criteria for 2027

Key Point  

• Singapore has released updated Employment Pass (EP) eligibility requirements, including revised qualifying salaries and the Complementarity Assessment Framework scoring criteria, which will take effect across 2025–2027. 

Employment Pass Requirements and Salary  

Singapore’s Ministry of Manpower (MOM) has published updated eligibility criteria for the Employment Pass (EP). In addition, the MOM introduced a revised framework that includes salary increases phased in over the next several years, updated Complementarity Assessment Framework (COMPASS) scoring rules, and clarified exemptions for certain applicants.  

What is COMPASS? 

According to the MOM, COMPASS is a transparent, points-based system that provides businesses with greater clarity and certainty in manpower planning. It enables employers to select high-quality foreign professionals, while improving workforce diversity and building a strong local core. 

Updated EP Salary Requirements (2025–2027) 

The qualifying salary for EP applicants will continue to rise over the next several years, with higher thresholds for older and more experienced candidates. Sector‑specific benchmarks, particularly in financial services, remain higher than the general EP salary floor. 

EP Qualifying Salary Timeline 

Salary requirements increase with age; the table reflects minimum thresholds for applicants in their mid‑20s. 

COMPASS Scoring Requirements 

Singapore continues to implement the COMPASS points‑based framework for EP applications. Under COMPASS, applicants must score at least 40 points across four foundational criteria: 

• Salary competitiveness 
• Qualifications 
• Diversity 
• Support for local workforce development 

MOM has also clarified exemptions for certain categories, including: 

• Applicants earning at least SGD 22,500 per month 
• Overseas intra‑corporate transferees 
• Applicants in roles where COMPASS does not apply due to regulatory requirements 

Sector‑Specific Considerations 

MOM has updated salary benchmarks for sectors with higher market wages, including: 

• Financial services 
• Technology 
• Professional services 

Employers in these sectors should expect higher qualifying thresholds and more stringent COMPASS salary scoring. 

Looking Ahead 

These updates will take effect progressively through 2027. Employers should review upcoming salary increases and COMPASS scoring requirements to ensure continued eligibility for EP applicants.  

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