Singapore Visa & Work Permit Complete Guide 2026

Singapore is Asia's premier business hub, known for low taxes, world-class infrastructure, and an English-speaking environment. However, housing costs frequently exceed Tokyo's, making income planning critical.

Overview of Main Visa Types

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Employment Pass (EP)

The most common work visa for professionals. COMPASS scoring became mandatory for all EP applications in September 2023.

Salary thresholds (revised January 2025):

• General: SGD 5,600/month (rising to SGD 6,000 from January 2027)
• Financial services: SGD 6,200/month (rising to SGD 6,600 from January 2027)
• Age 45 and above: typically SGD 10,700/month+

COMPASS scoring (40+ points required):

• Salary benchmark (vs. median for similar roles)
• Qualifications (top-ranked universities score higher)
• Diversity (lower foreign worker ratio at employer = higher score)
• Support for local professionals

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S Pass

For mid-level skilled workers. Employers face quota limits on S Pass holders.

• Minimum salary: SGD 3,300/month (age-adjusted; revised September 2025)
• Financial services: SGD 3,650/month
• Quota: up to 15% of workforce (20% for manufacturing)
• Employer levy: SGD 650–900/month per S Pass holder

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ONE Pass

For top talent earning SGD 30,000/month or more.

• Validity: 5 years (renewable)
• Can work for multiple employers simultaneously
• Spouse can work in Singapore without a separate work pass
• Application fee: SGD 105 + issuance SGD 225

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Tech.Pass

For established tech entrepreneurs and leaders. Must meet at least 2 of 3 criteria:

1. Last drawn salary SGD 20,000/month+
2. Led tech product/service with valuation USD 500M+ for 5+ years
3. Led R&D team of 30+ in a tech company for 5+ years

• Validity: 2 years (re-evaluated at renewal)
• Can simultaneously run companies, serve as director, and invest

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EntrePass

For entrepreneurs starting innovative businesses in Singapore.

• VC investment or acceptance into a government-recognized incubator strengthens the application
• Validity: 1 year (renewable based on business performance)
• Local hiring track record affects renewal outcomes

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Permanent Residency (PR)

Eligible after several years on EP/S Pass.

• Assessment: income, taxes paid, education, family ties, employment duration
• Approval rate: undisclosed (estimated ~30–35%)
• Processing time: 6 months to 1 year

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Cost Summary

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Pre-Move Checklist

1. Verify salary and COMPASS thresholds: Updated regularly — check MOM's official portal
2. Estimate housing costs: Expat areas (Orchard, Holland Village) range from SGD 2,800+/month for singles
3. Dependant's Pass conditions: To bring family, EP holders typically need SGD 6,000+/month
4. Health insurance: Often employer-provided, but verify coverage
5. Run a MoveWorth simulation: Balance Singapore's tax advantages against high living costs

Singapore's low corporate and personal tax rates make it attractive for wealth building — but world-class housing and education costs mean careful income planning is essential.

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References

This article is based on the following official sources.

• Employment Pass (EP) & COMPASS: MOM – EP Eligibility
• S Pass: MOM – S Pass Eligibility
• ONE Pass: MOM – ONE Pass Eligibility
• Tech.Pass: EDB – Tech.Pass Official Page
• EntrePass: MOM – EntrePass Eligibility
• Permanent Residency (PR): ICA – Permanent Residency