Singapore Employment or S Pass Self-Assessment Tool (SAT) – Free Online Tool for Anyone
Securing the proper work authorisation is crucial if you’re considering starting a new chapter in Singapore. To live and work legally, foreign professionals must obtain valid work visa passes issued by Singapore’s Ministry of Manpower (MOM). Depending on your role, qualifications, and salary, you may need to apply for either an Employment Pass (EP) or an S Pass.
What Is the Employment Pass (EP)?
The Employment Pass (EP) is designed for foreign professionals, managers, and executives seeking employment in Singapore. EP’s caters to individuals with recognised qualifications and relevant work experience.
Key Eligibility Criteria for Employment Pass in Singapore
To qualify for an EP, applicants must:
- Secure a job offer from a Singapore-based employer.
- Earn a fixed monthly salary that meets or exceeds the qualifying minimum wage, which varies based on age and sector:
- All sectors (excluding financial services):
- SGD 5,600 for candidates aged 23 or below.
- Increases progressively with age, up to SGD 10,700 for candidates aged 45 and above.
- Financial services sector:
- SGD 6,200 for candidates aged 23 or below.
- Increases progressively with age, up to SGD 11,800 for candidates aged 45 and above.
- All sectors (excluding financial services):
- Possess acceptable qualifications, such as a recognised degree, professional qualifications, or specialised skills.
COMPASS Framework
Applicants must also pass the Complementarity Assessment Framework (COMPASS), which evaluates candidates based on:
- Salary: Benchmarking against local PMET salaries.
- Qualifications: Educational background and relevance.
- Diversity: Contribution to workforce diversity.
- Support for Local Employment: Employer’s track record in hiring local employees.
Candidates earning a fixed monthly salary of SGD 22,500 or more are exempted from the COMPASS assessment.
Application Process for Employment Pass in Singapore (EP)
- Submission: Only employers or authorised third-party agents can submit EP applications.
- Self-Assessment Tool (SAT): Employers are encouraged to use MOM’s SAT to evaluate a candidate’s eligibility before applying.
What Is the S Pass Work Visa in Singapore?
The S Pass is designed for mid-skilled foreign professionals seeking employment in Singapore. It caters to roles such as technicians, supervisors, and junior executives. To ensure the quality of foreign manpower and maintain fair employment practices, the Ministry of Manpower (MOM) has announced updates effective from 1 September 2025.
Key Eligibility Criteria for S Pass Visa in Singapore (Effective 1 September 2025)
- Job Offer: Applicants must secure a job offer from a Singapore-based employer.
- Minimum Monthly Salary:
- All sectors (excluding financial services): SGD 3,300, increasing with age up to SGD 4,800 for candidates aged 45 and above.
- Financial services sector: SGD 3,800, increasing with age up to SGD 5,650 for candidates aged 45 and above.
- Educational Qualifications: A diploma or degree from a recognised institution. Technical certificates may be considered if accompanied by at least one year of full-time study.
- Relevant Work Experience: Applicants should possess work experience pertinent to the job role.
Quota and Levy Adjustments
- Quota: Employers must adhere to sector-specific quotas limiting the proportion of S Pass holders in their workforce.
- Levy Rates: From 1 September 2025, the monthly levy for S Pass holders will be standardised at SGD 650 across all sectors.
Application Process for S pass in Singapore
- Submission: Only employers or authorised third-party agents can submit S Pass applications on behalf of candidates.
- Self-Assessment Tool (SAT): Employers are encouraged to use MOM’s SAT to evaluate a candidate’s eligibility before applying. A favourable SAT result indicates a higher likelihood of application approval.
Dependant Privileges for S Pass In Singapore
- Dependant’s Pass: S Pass holders earning a fixed monthly salary of at least SGD 6,000 may apply for Dependant’s Passes for their spouse and children.
What Is the Singapore Employment Pass or S Pass SAT For?
Before applying for an Employment Pass or S Pass, use the Ministry of Manpower’s (MOM) Self-Assessment Tool (SAT) to evaluate your eligibility. It’s a quick and reliable way to determine if you meet the criteria for a Singapore work visa.
The system will calculate your eligibility based on the information you provide. This information includes salary, work experience and educational qualifications.
The SAT is free to use and accessible to anyone. With this online tool, you will be able to:
- Preview and check your submission details before sending.
- Print a copy of your assessment outcome.
- Edit the necessary information for reassessment.
Is the Employment Pass or S Pass SAT Easy to Access?
Yes, you can easily access the SAT through any of the following:
- Chrome version 70 or higher (this is the most recommended option)
- Safari version 12 or higher
- Internet Explorer 10 or higher
- Firefox version 63 or higher
Where Can I Find the Singapore Employment Pass and S Pass SAT?
The self-assessment tool is available via MOM’s website here. Note that the tool does not guarantee an outcome. It is merely a preliminary tool to assess your eligibility. Other considerations such as your employer’s S Pass quota and your work history will affect the outcome of your visa. These two aspects are not included as part of the SAT.
