Your Employment Pass Was Rejected – Why?
The Employment Pass (EP) is a Singaporean work permit that allows foreign professionals to work in the country. Needless to say, it is a highly sought-after permit, as it offers numerous benefits. Some of these benefits include the ability to work in Singapore without a local sponsor, the right to bring dependents to Singapore, and the ability to travel freely in and out of Singapore. However, not everyone who applies for an EP is successful.
With that said, it’s no surprise that Singapore receives a plethora of EP applications every year. Still, there is a high number of applications that are being rejected every year. In this article, we will walk you through the process of applying for an EP in Singapore and help you understand why rejections occur. Plus, we will also be outlining the criteria that would increase your chances of approval.
Employment Pass is Handled by MOM, Not Immigration Singapore
EP applications now must undergo a stringent review process by the processing authority. In this case, it is MOM who handles the applications, not Immigration Singapore. The latter is the border control authority and has nothing to do with applications.
Why Did They Reject My Employment Pass?
In most cases, MOM will not reveal the reasons for the rejection. MOM has refined the application process. Then, if you get your Employment Pass rejected, these could be the reasons why:
There are a number of reasons why an EP application may be rejected, including:
The Applicant Does Not Meet the Minimum Salary Requirements
The Ministry of Manpower (MOM) may reject your application for a work pass if your CV does not reflect your increasing responsibilities or rising salary. This is because MOM may view it as being stagnant in your current role. Given that they are more likely to prioritise those who have growth, it is better if you could justify your salary.
The Applicant Does Not Have the Required Qualifications or Experience
Just like applying for a job, if you do not have the right experience to be qualified, you could be rejected. Your skills must match the job you are applying for. Singapore takes its EP very seriously, so, you will have to first meet all the criteria of the job and the EP before being considered for one.
The Applicant’s Duration in Their Previous Job Wasn’t Very Long
If you job hop too quickly, it might be a little tricky to get an EP approval. Ideally, MOM would want someone who has at least stayed in their previous job for two years. That is not to say that those who job-hop will be flat-out rejected. If you can justify job hopping or the short duration of your previous jobs for a valid reason, then you may be approved.
The Applicant Has Discrepancies in Personal Information
Before submitting your application, double and triple-check it! Submitting incorrect information will be rejected is a big no-no. Your application with incorrect information might be flagged for being suspicious. Also, this goes without saying, but do not put in false information as well!
The Applicant Has Health Issues or is Nearing Retirement Age
MOM is unlikely to approve individuals with some health issues. Apart from that, if you are nearing your retirement age (in your early sixties), then you will most probably be rejected.
The above are factors that you can work on to have a higher rate of approval. However, there are certain factors that are out of your control and depend on the companies instead. These instances are such as:
Your Employer Did Not Meet the Necessary Balance Ratio
Like many countries around the world, it is crucial for companies in Singapore to hire locals before they start hiring foreigners. This means that there is a quota for employers to fill with local employees – mandated by the law in order to protect the local workforce. If the employer wishes to hire foreign workers, they must be able to justify the reason behind it. The company’s recruitment practices must adhere to the Fair Consideration Framework (FCF) set by MOM.
Your Employer’s Company Background Isn’t Too Relevant
If your company’s business activities are not deemed relevant, then MOM has a big possibility of having your EP rejected. The company that you are applying to has to have a strong business that is in a relevant industry with high importance and contribution to Singapore.
How Do I Improve My Chances of Successfully Getting an EP?
There are a few ways you can get your EP approved. Here are some tips to help you increase your chances of getting an EP:
Make Sure That You Meet the Minimum Salary Requirements
In order to be eligible for an EP, the applicant must meet a number of requirements, including a minimum salary requirement. There are a few things that the applicant can do to increase their chances of meeting the minimum salary requirement. First, they can try to get a job with a higher salary. Second, they can try to get more experience. Third, they can try to get a job in a high-demand occupation.
Make Sure That You Have the Required Qualifications and Experience
The MOM will assess your qualifications and experience to see if you’re qualified. Make sure to update your CV to reflect your recent accomplishments. This includes any new responsibilities you have taken on, any awards or recognition you have received, and any salary increases you have received. You should also highlight any new skills or training you have acquired.
Make Sure That Your Job Meets the Requirements of the EP Scheme
The Ministry of Manpower (MOM) has a list of occupations that are eligible for EPs. This list is updated regularly, so it’s important to check it before you apply. You can find the list on the MOM website. With that said, to be eligible for an EP, your job must meet the following:
- A managerial, executive, or specialised job.
- A university degree or equivalent qualification.
- A salary that is at least S$5,000 per month.
Ensure Your Company Has a Good Track Record of Hiring EP Holders
The MOM will examine your company’s history of hiring EP holders to determine if you are a good risk. If your company has a history of hiring EP holders who have overstayed their visas or been involved in illegal activities, the MOM will be less likely to approve your application. Therefore, choose a company that has a proper record.
How Do I Appeal?
If your Employment Pass is rejected, you can try appealing it within three months. According to MOM, if you can provide new information and address the reason for getting rejected, only then is there a possible outcome of change. You can look for the reasons for rejection available at EP Online if you applied online. You can use the Self-Assessment Tool (SAT) to gauge your qualifications before applying.
Last But Not Least
Applying the tips we’ve compiled above may increase your chances of getting an Employment Pass. However, do note that there is no absolute guarantee that your application will be approved for sure. Ultimately, the MOM will decide whether or not your Employment Pass gets approved based on a number of factors. Sometimes, you may not be able to appeal the decision.
