Singapore Employment Pass in 2026: minimum salary, COMPASS and what to expect
Singapore's Employment Pass (EP) is for professionals, managers and executives. It has two main filters: a minimum qualifying salary and a points-based framework called COMPASS.
Minimum salary
The EP qualifying salary has been raised in steps:
- SGD 5,600 per month in 2025.
- SGD 5,800 per month in 2026.
- A further rise to around SGD 6,000 has been signalled for 2027.
Salary expectations also rise with age, so older applicants typically need a higher monthly salary to qualify. The financial services sector has its own higher benchmark.
The COMPASS framework
COMPASS assigns points across criteria including salary relative to local peers, qualifications, diversity of the employer's workforce, support for local employment and others. Applicants typically need a minimum score to pass. Exact scoring is published by the Ministry of Manpower, so check the latest tables.
Alternatives
- S Pass for mid-skilled staff with a lower salary threshold and quotas.
- ONE Pass for top earners and exceptional talent.
- Tech.Pass and other targeted programmes.
Applying
Typically your employer submits the application. Processing times are usually weeks. You should keep copies of your degree certificates and a salary history.
Tips for applicants
- Ask your employer to check the current salary threshold for your age.
- Verify that your qualification is recognised.
- Make sure the job title and duties are accurate.
- Understand that an EP does not guarantee permanent residence.
The Ministry of Manpower publishes the official thresholds, which change from time to time.
Visa Ray is a rule-based reference tool, not a law firm. Rules and fees change, so always confirm current figures with the official government source before you apply. You can run a free assessment on Visa Ray to see which pathways fit your profile.