Republic of Singapore · work sponsored
S Pass
By Sam Parks · Last reviewed:
Work pass for mid-level skilled foreign workers earning above the S Pass qualifying salary, subject to employer quota and levy.
- Processing time
- Typically 3–8 weeks.
- Government fees
- Application fee SGD 105; issuance fee SGD 225; monthly levy SGD 550–650 paid by employer.
- Typical duration
- Up to 2 years; renewable.
- Sponsorship required
- Yes
- Leads to permanent residency
- No
Overview
The S Pass is designed for mid-level skilled workers. Employers are subject to a dependency ratio ceiling (a cap on the proportion of S Pass and Work Permit holders relative to total workforce) and must pay a monthly foreign worker levy. The qualifying salary was raised to SGD 3,150 per month in September 2025 (verify on MOM). S Pass holders can apply for PR but conversion rates are lower than for EP holders.
Guidance by nationality
Specific information for applicants from these countries. Don’t see yours? The general eligibility criteria above apply to everyone.
Indian applicants
Indian S Pass holders are concentrated in construction, manufacturing, and IT support roles. The dependency ratio ceilin…
Malaysian applicants
Malaysian S Pass holders benefit from proximity and cultural familiarity. Many Malaysian S Pass workers commute daily fr…
Filipino applicants
Filipino S Pass holders concentrate in healthcare support, hospitality, and technical roles. PRC-issued professional cer…
Eligibility
Typical criteria
- ✓Job offer from a Singapore employer within the S Pass dependency ratio ceiling.
- ✓Fixed monthly salary at or above the S Pass qualifying salary (SGD 3,150 as of September 2025 — verify on MOM).
- ✓Relevant qualifications: typically a diploma or technical certificate with at least 1 year of relevant experience.
Common blockers
- !Employer has exceeded its S Pass dependency ratio ceiling.
- !Salary below the qualifying threshold.
- !Qualifications not recognised or insufficient experience.
Typical evidence
- ·Educational certificates.
- ·Employment contract specifying salary.
- ·Relevant work experience evidence.
Application pathway
Employer checks quota availability
The employer must have available S Pass quota within its dependency ratio ceiling.
Application submission via MOM portal
Employer submits the S Pass application online with supporting documents.
IPA and arrival
IPA letter issued if approved; use it to enter Singapore and attend card issuance.
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.
- ApplyEmployerApply for an S Pass ↗
Employer or appointed employment agent submits the S Pass application, then arranges pass issuance after approval.
Ministry of Manpower (MOM) · verified
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Frequently asked questions
What is the difference between an S Pass and an Employment Pass?+
The EP is for professionals and executives earning above the EP qualifying salary (SGD 5,600+) with degree-level qualifications. The S Pass targets mid-level skilled workers earning above SGD 3,150 with diploma-level qualifications. S Pass employers pay a monthly levy and are subject to a workforce quota; EP employers are not. EP holders have an easier path to PR.
Can S Pass holders apply for Permanent Residence?+
Yes. S Pass holders can apply to ICA for PR, but approval rates are generally lower than for EP holders. Salary level, duration of stay, qualifications, and sector all influence the outcome.
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