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S Pass

  • a22162
  • Feb 9
  • 5 min read

Updated: Mar 29


S Pass | Bestar
S Pass | Bestar


S Pass Work Visa


The S Pass is a Singapore work visa for mid-skilled foreign employees. Here's a breakdown of key aspects:


Eligibility


  • Salary: Minimum monthly salary of $3,150 (increasing to $3,300 from September 1, 2025). Older, experienced workers may require up to $4,650.

  • Qualifications: Degree or diploma from an accredited institution, or relevant technical certificates.

  • Experience: Relevant work experience is usually required.


Quota and Levy


  • Quota: Companies have a limit on the number of S Pass holders they can employ, depending on the industry.

  • Levy: Employers pay a monthly levy for each S Pass holder. The amount varies by sector and the percentage of foreign workers in the company.


Application Process


  1. Apply online: Employers or authorized agents submit applications through the Employment Pass Online (EPOL) system.

  2. Documents: Passport, educational certificates, company details, etc.

  3. Fees: Application and issuance fees apply.


Benefits


  • Work in Singapore: Allows foreign nationals to work legally in Singapore.

  • Bring family: Eligible to bring family members to Singapore with Dependant's Pass (DP) or Long-Term Visit Pass (LTVP), subject to salary requirements.


Important Notes


  • Fair Consideration Framework: Employers must adhere to fair hiring practices and advertise jobs on MyCareersFuture before applying for an S Pass.

  • Medical insurance: Employers must provide medical insurance for S Pass holders.

  • Renewal: S Pass is valid for up to 2 years and can be renewed.


More Comprehensive Overview of the S Pass


The S Pass is a popular work visa in Singapore for mid-skilled foreign employees. Here's a more detailed look at some aspects:


Key Criteria


  • Salary: The minimum qualifying salary is $3,150 per month, but this increases with age and experience. Older candidates may need a salary as high as $4,650. This ensures that S Pass holders are adequately compensated and contribute to the economy.

  • Qualifications: A degree or diploma is typically required, but relevant technical certificates can also be considered. The qualifications should be from an accredited institution.

  • Experience: Relevant work experience is crucial. While there's no specific number of years mentioned, the experience should align with the job offered and demonstrate the candidate's skills.


Quota and Levy


  • Quota: The quota system limits the number of S Pass holders a company can employ. This is a percentage of the company's total workforce and varies by industry. This helps to maintain a balance between local and foreign workers.

  • Levy: Employers are required to pay a monthly levy for each S Pass holder. The amount depends on the sector and the percentage of foreign workers in the company. This levy contributes to the government's revenue and helps to fund social programs.


Application Process


  • Online application: The application is done online through the Employment Pass Online (EPOL) system. This streamlines the process and makes it more efficient.

  • Fair Consideration Framework: Employers must adhere to the Fair Consideration Framework, which emphasizes fair hiring practices. This includes advertising the job on the MyCareersFuture portal for a minimum period before applying for an S Pass.

  • Documents: Required documents include the applicant's passport, educational certificates, and company details. Additional documents may be required depending on the applicant's nationality or specific circumstances.


Benefits


  • Work in Singapore: The primary benefit is the legal right to work in Singapore. This provides foreign nationals with opportunities to advance their careers and contribute to Singapore's economy.

  • Bring family: S Pass holders who meet the salary requirements can bring their family members to Singapore on Dependant's Pass (DP) or Long-Term Visit Pass (LTVP). This allows families to stay together and enjoy the benefits of living in Singapore.


Other Important Aspects


  • Medical insurance: Employers must provide medical insurance for S Pass holders, covering inpatient care and day surgery, with a minimum coverage of $15,000. This ensures that S Pass holders have access to healthcare.

  • Renewal: The S Pass is typically valid for two years and can be renewed. Renewal is subject to meeting the eligibility criteria and the company's continued need for the employee.

  • Cancellation: The S Pass can be canceled by the employer or the Ministry of Manpower under certain circumstances, such as termination of employment or violation of regulations.


For the most up-to-date information, please refer to the official Ministry of Manpower (MOM) website.


How Bestar can Help


Bestar is a company that offers a range of services related to company incorporation, accounting, taxation, and business advisory in Singapore. We can be particularly helpful for businesses looking to hire foreign employees on S Passes. Here's how Bestar can assist with S Pass applications:   


1. Expertise in S Pass Regulations:


  • Bestar has a team of experts who are well-versed in the latest S Pass regulations and requirements set by the Ministry of Manpower (MOM).   

  • We can provide guidance on eligibility criteria, salary requirements, quota availability, and levy calculations.   

  • This expertise helps businesses understand the complexities of the S Pass application process and ensures compliance with MOM regulations.


2. Streamlining the Application Process:


  • Bestar can assist with the entire S Pass application process, from preparing the necessary documents to submitting the application through the Employment Pass Online (EPOL) system.

  • We can help gather and organize the required documents, such as the applicant's passport, educational certificates, and company details.   

  • By streamlining the process, Bestar saves businesses time and effort, allowing them to focus on their core operations.   


3. Liaison with MOM:


  • Bestar can act as a liaison between the company and MOM, communicating with the authorities on behalf of the business.   

  • We can address any queries or concerns raised by MOM and provide updates on the application status.

  • This communication ensures a smooth and efficient application process.


4. Assistance with Fair Consideration Framework:


  • Bestar can guide businesses on complying with the Fair Consideration Framework, which requires employers to advertise job openings on MyCareersFuture and consider all candidates fairly.

  • We can help businesses document their efforts in fair consideration and ensure they meet the requirements of the framework.


5. Post-Approval Support:


  • Once the S Pass is approved, Bestar can assist with the subsequent steps, such as obtaining the In-Principle Approval (IPA) letter, arranging for medical examinations, and issuing the S Pass card.

  • We can also provide guidance on other related matters, such as applying for Dependant's Passes for family members and understanding the renewal process.   


6. Customized Solutions:


  • Bestar understands that each business has unique needs. They offer customized solutions tailored to specific requirements, ensuring that businesses receive the most relevant and effective support.   


By leveraging Bestar SG's services, businesses can:


  • Save time and effort: Bestar handles the complexities of the S Pass application process, freeing up businesses to focus on their core operations.

  • Ensure compliance: Bestar's expertise in S Pass regulations helps businesses avoid costly mistakes and ensures compliance with MOM requirements.

  • Increase the chances of approval: Bestar's experience and knowledge can improve the likelihood of a successful S Pass application.   

  • Receive personalized support: Bestar provides customized solutions to meet the specific needs of each business.   


If you are a business looking to hire foreign employees on S Passes, consider contacting Bestar to learn more about how they can assist you.




 
 
 

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