Republic of Singapore · work unsponsored
Personalised Employment Pass (PEP)
By Sam Parks · Last reviewed:
Non-employer-tied work pass for high-earning EP holders or overseas professionals earning above SGD 22,500 per month.
- Processing time
- Typically 8 weeks.
- Government fees
- Application fee SGD 105; issuance fee SGD 225.
- Typical duration
- 3 years; non-renewable.
- Sponsorship required
- No
- Leads to permanent residency
- No
Overview
The Personalised Employment Pass (PEP) is not tied to any employer. It is available to existing EP holders earning at least SGD 22,500 per month or to overseas professionals with equivalent earnings. The PEP cannot be renewed — holders must switch to EP, ONE Pass, or another pass before expiry. PEP holders cannot start a business or be self-employed.
Eligibility
Typical criteria
- ✓Current EP holder with a last-drawn fixed monthly salary of at least SGD 22,500; OR overseas professional with a last-drawn fixed monthly salary of at least SGD 22,500 in the preceding 6 months.
- ✓Must not be a foreigner on a sponsored Dependent's Pass seeking to switch to PEP.
Common blockers
- !Salary below SGD 22,500/month.
- !Already holds or has previously held a PEP (it is a once-in-a-lifetime pass).
Typical evidence
- ·Payslips or tax documents proving last-drawn salary of SGD 22,500+.
- ·Passport.
- ·Current EP details (if switching from EP).
Application pathway
Confirm salary eligibility
Verify your last-drawn salary meets the SGD 22,500/month threshold.
Apply online via MOM portal
Submit the PEP application individually — no employer submission required.
Receive IPA and activate
If approved, activate the pass within the IPA validity period.
Plan next pass before expiry
PEP cannot be renewed. Switch to EP, ONE Pass, or another valid pass before the 3-year expiry.
Official application links
Where to actually go next
These are the official pages to use for this route. Open them before preparing documents: the forms, fees, appointment systems, and sponsor steps can change without warning.
- ApplyApplicantApply for a Personalised Employment Pass ↗
Candidate submits the PEP application directly and completes pass issuance after receiving in-principle approval.
Ministry of Manpower (MOM) · verified
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Related routes
Employment Pass (EP)
Work pass for foreign professionals, managers, and executives earning above the qualifying salary, issued to employers.
Overseas Networks & Expertise Pass (ONE Pass)
Premium 5-year pass for top-earning professionals, business leaders, and outstanding achievers — not tied to a single employer.
Frequently asked questions
Can PEP holders start a business?+
No. PEP holders can only be employed — they cannot be self-employed or start a business. For entrepreneurial flexibility, consider the ONE Pass (if earning SGD 30,000+) or EntrePass.
Can I renew my PEP?+
No. The PEP is a once-in-a-lifetime, non-renewable pass valid for 3 years. Before it expires, you must secure an EP, ONE Pass, or other valid pass to continue working in Singapore.
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