Difference between Singapore Work Permit vs Employment Pass
by Ricebowl Team
Mar 21, 2025
at 2:15 PM
To apply for a Singapore Work Permit, employers must submit an application through the Ministry of Manpower (MOM) and meet all necessary requirements, including paying the required levy and ensuring the worker’s compliance with health and safety standards.
Singapore offers various work passes for foreigners aiming to work in the country, each with its own eligibility requirements and conditions. If you are interested in Singapore jobs, understanding which pass suits your needs can streamline your job application process. This article explains the differences between the Employment Pass and the Work Permit, helping you decide which one is right for you.
Key Insights
Singapore offers several types of work passes, each with its own eligibility criteria. The Employment Pass is meant for skilled professionals, while the Work Permit is designed for migrant workers in certain industries.
The Employment Pass offers more flexibility. It allows family members to move with you, makes it easier to apply for permanent residency, and simplifies changing jobs.
Work Permit holders face more restrictions. They have specific nationality requirements, must pay a foreign worker levy, and have limitations on bringing family, getting permanent residency, or switching employers.
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Employment Pass vs Work Permit
Here are simple definitions for the Employment Pass and Work Permit:
Employment Pass
The Employment Pass is a work visa for foreign professionals, managers, and executives. It’s designed for highly skilled and educated individuals. With this pass, you can live and work in Singapore and travel in and out of the country without needing additional entry visas.
Work Permit
The Work Permit is intended for migrant workers and domestic helpers. Migrant workers usually find jobs in construction, manufacturing, marine shipyards, and certain service sectors, while domestic helpers work in private homes. There are also special Work Permits for confinement nannies and performing artists, generally valid for shorter durations.
Differences Between Employment Pass and Work Permit
When considering work passes for Singapore, it's crucial to understand the differences between the Employment Pass and the Work Permit. Here’s a breakdown to help you determine which pass you might qualify for and what each allows you to do:
Salary Requirements
Employment Pass
For new and renewal applications from September 1, 2023, individuals in most fields need a minimum salary of $5,000 per month, rising up to $10,500 depending on the role. Those in financial services require a minimum salary of $5,500, increasing up to $11,500. For renewals before September 2023, the minimum salary starts at $4,500 and goes up to $8,400, or $5,000 to $9,300 for financial services.
Work Permit
There is no minimum salary requirement for a Work Permit. Use our salary checker to find out and get insights into potential salaries and make informed career decisions.
Nationality Requirements
Employment Pass
Available to individuals of any nationality. Certain nationals might need to provide additional documentation.
Work Permit
Nationality requirements vary based on the industry. For example:
Service Industry: Malaysia, PRC, Hong Kong, Macau, South Korea, Taiwan.
Construction Industry: Malaysia, PRC, India, Sri Lanka, Thailand, Bangladesh, Myanmar, Philippines, Hong Kong, Macau, South Korea, Taiwan.
Migrant Domestic Workers: Bangladesh, Cambodia, Hong Kong, India, Indonesia, Macau, Malaysia, Myanmar, Philippines, South Korea, Sri Lanka, Taiwan, Thailand.
Quota and Levy
Employment Pass
No foreign worker quota or levy applies. Employers only need to advertise the job locally first before hiring foreigners.
Work Permit
Employers must adhere to a foreign worker quota and pay a levy, which varies by sector, source country, and skill level.
Processing Time
Employment Pass
Applications are processed online through the MOM myMOM portal, usually within 10 business days. Once approved, employers have six months to bring the candidate to Singapore. The pass is typically issued five days after arrival and document verification.
Work Permit
Generally takes about a week to process. The application includes additional requirements like security bonds, medical checks, and insurance.
Job Flexibility
Employment Pass
Holders can switch employers more easily. If their pass expires, they may stay on a Short-Term Visit Pass for up to one month while seeking a new job.
Work Permit
Holders must leave Singapore within a week after their pass expires and cannot stay to find a new job.
Family Passes
Employment Pass
Holders earning at least $6,000 per month can bring their spouse and children under 21. Those earning $12,000 or more can also bring their parents. Family members can be included in the Employment Pass application or applied for separately.
Work Permit
Family members cannot join Work Permit holders in Singapore.
Permanent Residency
Employment Pass Holders
If you have an Employment Pass, you can apply for Singapore Permanent Residency (PR). A PR visa allows you to live, enter, and exit Singapore without needing additional visas. Unlike the Employment Pass, which requires renewal periodically, the PR visa only needs to be renewed every five years. It also offers more flexibility in job changes and access to a broader range of business, educational, and healthcare opportunities.
Work Permit Holders
Work Permit holders cannot apply for a PR visa directly. However, they might become eligible if they first upgrade to an S Pass, which can be a step towards applying for permanent residency.
Marriage and Children
Employment Pass Holders
You can marry, have children, and raise a family in Singapore with an Employment Pass. After the birth of your child, you must register the birth with the Immigration Checkpoints Authority (ICA) within 14 days. Once registered, your newborn can stay in Singapore for 42 days. During this time, you’ll need to get a passport for your baby and apply for a Dependent's Pass through the myMOM portal to ensure their legal stay.
Work Permit Holders
Work Permit holders face restrictions on marriage and family life. You need approval from the Ministry of Manpower (MOM) to marry a Singapore citizen or permanent resident, whether inside or outside of Singapore. Additionally, you cannot become pregnant or give birth while holding a Work Permit unless you are married to a citizen or permanent resident with MOM's approval.
*This information is accurate as of the time of writing but may change. For the most current details, consult a local resource.
In summary, whether you're considering the flexibility of an Employment Pass or the temporary nature of a Work Permit, understanding these key differences can help you make informed decisions about working and living in Singapore.
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