Malaysian applicants · Republic of Singapore
Employment Pass (EP) for Malaysian citizens
Work pass for foreign professionals, managers, and executives earning above the qualifying salary, issued to employers.
This page covers the Employment Pass (EP) specifically for Malaysian applicants — including document requirements, consular procedures, and common issues specific to Malaysia. The general eligibility criteria apply to everyone.
- Processing time
- Typically 3–8 weeks for a straightforward application.
- Government fees
- Application fee SGD 105; issuance fee SGD 225. Multiple Journey Visa fee SGD 30 if required. Verify on MOM.
- Typical duration
- Up to 2 years on first issuance; renewable for up to 3 years.
- Sponsorship required
- Yes
- Leads to permanent residency
- No
Bilateral context
- Commonwealth
Consular processing: N/A — online application via MOM
Tourist entry vs. this route
Yes — Malaysian nationals can enter Republic of Singapore without a visa for short tourism (typically up to 90 days), but tourist entry does not authorise the activity covered by the Employment Pass (EP).
Visa overview
The Employment Pass is Singapore's primary work pass for professionals earning above the qualifying salary. Since September 2023, the COMPASS (Complementarity Assessment Framework) points-based system applies to most new EP applications, scoring applicants on salary, qualifications, diversity, and skills bonus criteria. The qualifying salary has been raised multiple times — to SGD 5,600 for most sectors and SGD 6,200 for financial services (2025 figures, verify on MOM). EP holders can apply for Permanent Residence after working in Singapore.
Additional sources
Eligibility
Typical criteria
- ✓Job offer from a Singapore-registered employer.
- €Fixed monthly salary at or above the qualifying salary (SGD 5,600 general; SGD 6,200 for financial services as of 2025 — verify on MOM).
- ✓Recognised qualifications — typically a degree from a reputable university.
- ✓Pass the COMPASS framework with 40+ points (applicable to most new applications from September 2023).
Common blockers
- !Salary below the qualifying threshold for the applicant's age and sector — MOM uses a progressive salary scale based on age.
- !COMPASS score below 40 points — typically due to low diversity, salary percentile, or qualification score.
- !Employer has a poor Fair Consideration Framework (FCF) track record with MOM.
Typical evidence
- ·Educational certificates and transcripts.
- ·Employment contract or offer letter specifying salary and job scope.
- ·Employer's business registration details.
- ·Professional qualifications or licences where applicable.
Application pathway
Secure a job offer from a Singapore employer
The employer must be registered in Singapore and willing to sponsor an EP application. The role must meet the qualifying salary for your age and sector.
Employer submits EP application via EP Online
The employer (or an appointed employment agent) submits the application on MOM's EP Online portal with supporting documents.
COMPASS assessment
Most new EP applications are scored under COMPASS on four foundational criteria (salary, qualifications, diversity, support for local employment) plus bonus criteria. A score of 40+ is required.
In-Principle Approval (IPA)
If approved, MOM issues an IPA letter valid for 6 months. Use it to enter Singapore.
Card issuance and registration
After arriving in Singapore, attend a card-issuance appointment to register fingerprints and photo. The EP card is issued within days.
Consider PR application after working in Singapore
EP holders can apply for Singapore Permanent Residence (PR) via the Immigration & Checkpoints Authority (ICA). There is no fixed timeline but 6–12 months of EP employment is a common minimum before applying.
Other Republic of Singapore routes covered for Malaysian applicants
Not sure Republic of Singapore is right for you? Compare similar routes
Other countries offer work sponsored routes that Malaysian nationals also apply to. See how they compare.
Frequently asked questions
Are Malaysian citizens eligible for the Employment Pass (EP)?+
Eligibility for the Employment Pass (EP) is set by Ministry of Manpower (MOM) and is not nationality-restricted beyond the general criteria, though Malaysian applicants may also have access to the following bilateral or treaty frameworks: Commonwealth. See the criteria below for the published requirements.
Where do Malaysian applicants typically file the Employment Pass (EP)?+
N/A — online application via MOM. Specific intake (online portal, biometrics centre, or in-country lodgement) is determined by Ministry of Manpower (MOM) — confirm the current intake channel on the primary source linked above before filing.
Do Malaysian applicants need a tourist visa for Republic of Singapore as well?+
Yes — Malaysian nationals can enter Republic of Singapore without a visa for short tourism (typically up to 90 days), but tourist entry does not authorise the activity covered by the Employment Pass (EP).
What is the minimum salary for a Singapore Employment Pass?+
The qualifying salary depends on your age and sector. For younger applicants (early 20s), the floor is SGD 5,600 per month in most sectors and SGD 6,200 in financial services. Older and more experienced candidates must meet progressively higher salary thresholds. MOM publishes the exact qualifying salary scale — always check the current figures before applying.
What is COMPASS and do I need to pass it?+
COMPASS (Complementarity Assessment Framework) is a points-based scoring system introduced in September 2023 for most new EP applications. It scores you on four criteria: salary relative to local benchmarks, qualifications, employer diversity, and support for local employment — plus bonus points for skills in shortage occupations or strategic economic priorities. You need 40 points to pass. Some EP holders are exempt (e.g. those earning SGD 22,500+/month, or intra-corporate transferees).
Does the Employment Pass lead to Singapore Permanent Residence?+
The EP itself is temporary, but EP holders can apply for Permanent Residence (PR) through ICA. There is no automatic conversion — PR applications are assessed on salary, qualifications, time in Singapore, sector, and other factors. Most successful PR applicants have held an EP for at least 6–12 months, though ICA does not publish minimum thresholds.
Can my family join me on an Employment Pass?+
If you earn SGD 6,000 or more per month, your spouse and children can apply for a Dependant's Pass. If you earn SGD 12,000 or more, your parents can apply for a Long-Term Visit Pass. These thresholds are set by MOM and may change — verify the current figures.
Can I change employer on an Employment Pass?+
Yes. Your new employer must submit a fresh EP application before you start work. You cannot work for the new employer until the new EP is approved. Your old EP is cancelled when the new one is issued. There is no need to leave Singapore between jobs if you hold a valid pass.