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Employment / Recruitment

A Quick Guide to Finding a Job in Singapore

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While Singapore is just a tiny speck on the world map, its economy is anything but small. One of the world’s freest economies and a modern city-state, this tiny country in South East Asia definitely has it all. As an idyllic getaway in the Asia-Pacific region with low corporate taxes and a friendly bureaucracy, Singapore attracts many foreign workers. It is, however, difficult for foreigners to find jobs in Singapore because of its highly competitive job market. All foreigners who intend to commence work here must possess a valid work pass.

Albeit, securing a job opportunity as a foreigner can be a confusing process, especially in a bustling city like Singapore. But fret not, my friends. If you’re ready to embark on an epic quest to find your dream job, then you’re on the right track as you’re about to learn some handy tips to help you win the job search race in Singapore.

What Are The Benefits Of Working In Singapore?

Portrait of two modern Asian  business people, man and woman, waiting for departure on business trip  in waiting zone of airport with big suitcases

Now, you must be wondering what exactly makes the City of Lions such an impeccable place to kickstart your career. Well, get ready to strap on your jetpack and blast off into a world of amazing opportunities! 

Competitive Salaries

With a booming economy, companies in Singapore are eager to recruit overseas specialists by offering top salaries and incentives to attract highly skilled workers. This means you can earn a comfortable living and enjoy all the exciting things Singapore has to offer. So if you’re looking to make some serious dough, Singapore is the place to be!

Career Opportunities

Singapore is home to many top global companies, which means there are plenty of employment opportunities to advance your career and work on cutting-edge projects that will help you grow professionally. Google, Facebook, Amazon, Microsoft, you name it. 

Work-life Balance

Yes, Singapore citizens work hard, but they also know how to enjoy their time off. Companies in Singapore offer a good work-life balance, which means you’ll have the time to explore every nook and cranny of the city, hang out with your friends and even pursue your hobbies. Additionally, under Part IV of the Singapore Employment Act, workers making less than SGD 2,600 per month are given more protection (concerning “Rest Day, Hours of Work and Overtime, Public Holidays, Annual Leave, Sick Leave, and Other Variable Payment”).

Low Crime Rates

It’s a well-known fact that Singapore is one of the safest countries in the world, with low crime rates and strict laws. They have high surveillance, police presence, and strict consequences for committing crimes. Having said that, you can work and live with peace of mind, knowing you and your loved ones are safe and sound.  

Top Notch Healthcare System

There has long been recognition that Singapore’s healthcare system is one of the best in the world among economists and politicians. Singapore government has implemented various policies to make healthcare more affordable and accessible for foreigners. For example, foreign workers in Singapore are required to have health or medical insurance, and employers are responsible for providing this coverage. Overall, Singapore’s healthcare system is renowned for its efficiency, quality, and accessibility. 

How to Find a Job in Singapore?

Asian business people in a city working together

Finding a job in Singapore is highly doable for expats- but how do you get started? Now, back to what you came here to read. This guide will walk you through some helpful steps for finding employment opportunities in Singapore.  

Do Your Research

Now before you even start to scout for jobs, make sure to do heaps of research- especially on the minimum salary, contract of service of a job position, number of days for leave entitlement, employee benefits, the job market and working procedures. This will give you a better understanding of what companies are looking for in potential employees. A quick Google search should get you up to speed.

If you do get offered a job, make sure there is an employment contract provided to you. It is an agreement between the employer and employee that specifies the terms and conditions of employment. It is advisable to have a written employment contract in Singapore. Typically, only senior management employees might have the option of negotiating their employment contracts.  Aside from that, companies must contribute to the Central Provident Fund (CPF) accounts of their employees.

Find a Job through Online Search

It doesn’t matter where you live or whether you’re currently living in Singapore looking for a job, there are tons of websites where you’ll find what you’re looking for. You may want to try out some of these websites; Monster, MyCareersFuture, JobsDB, Indeed Singapore and LinkedIn. 

Contact an Employment Agency

Sometimes, you need a sidekick to help you on your quest. Contact a Singapore manpower agency to help you find job opportunities that fit your skills and experience. They can also provide you with some juicy tips for acing your interviews and improving your resume. Soon after, you will be able to secure employment in Singapore. Be sure not to miss out!

Apply for Work Pass

Sure, getting a job offer is a huge accomplishment, but hang onto your hat, folks! Why? Because you’ll need to apply and obtain a Singapore work pass. There’s a couple of them, depending on your skills and qualifications. To apply for one, you’ll need a job offer, to pay a registration fee and to submit your application. Bear in mind that the processing time for work passes can vary, so bide your time with calmness. 

Types Of Work Pass In Singapore

How to apply for a work permit? If you’re interested in getting one, be sure to know what type you qualify for before applying. They can be divided into three groups: Professionals, Skilled and semi-skilled workers and trainees and students. 

Below is a breakdown of the Professionals passes, along with which ones are best suited:

Employment Pass (EP)

To be eligible for EP,  you have to hold recognized qualifications and relevant work experience. You have to at least earn a minimum of SGD 5,000 (or SGD 6,000 if you’re a recent graduate from a recognized institution) for a monthly salary. 

Personalised Employment Pass (PEP)

PEP is a sort of employment pass that is not tied to any particular employer, which means you can switch jobs without having to reapply for a new pass. This work visa is for highly qualified foreign professionals who earn at least SGD 144,000 per year.

EntrePass

This work visa is specialised for foreign entrepreneurs who want to start a business here. To be eligible for EntrePass, you must have a business plan that meets certain criteria such as innovation, scalability and job creation.

Now we’re moving onto the skilled and semi-skilled workers. You might want to take a close look at these details if you fall in this category. 

S Pass

S Pass or also known as Singapore Pass is for those foreign workers or mid-level technical workers earning a minimum monthly salary of SGD 2,200 are eligible to apply for this pass.  Of course, not to forget, you also need to meet certain other criteria, like having relevant qualifications and work experience.

For more information about the different work permits or work passes in Singapore, click here.

Work Permit for Foreign Workers

This visa is also known as an employment visa as it allows unskilled foreign labourers to do blue-collar work. To be eligible, you have to have a job offer from a Singaporean employer, and your employer has to apply for the work permit on your behalf.

Last but not least, the Trainees and students visas. If you’re a student or trainee looking to gain work experience in Singapore, this one’s for you.

Training Employment Pass (TEP)

To be eligible for a TEP, you’ll need to have a valid job offer from a Singaporean company, and your training must be relevant to your job. Furthermore, you’ll also need to meet certain salary and educational requirements. 

Work Holiday Pass

Looking for the perfect way to make some money, gain new experiences and meet new people? This pass is the perfect one for you! To be eligible for this, you’ll need to be a student for recent graduates from one of the participating countries. Moreover, it allows participants to stay in Singapore for up to 6 months while working and traveling around the country. How fun is that?

Contact an Employment Agency in Singapore Today

So folks, bear in mind that finding a job takes time and effort. Don’t be discouraged if you don’t hear back right away. Even Rome wasn’t built in a day. Interested in working for Singapore renowned organizations but unsure how to start? Yuanyii Agency, a Singapore manpower agency, has got you covered. We’ve helped many candidates to find their company of choice and desired job. We’ve also worked with many companies with amazing job opportunities that will definitely match your talent. 

A career in Singapore offers a higher and better wage, exceptional living conditions, as well as a better lifestyle. By using our foreign placement consultancy services, you could get a better job, a higher future, and more rapid advancement in your career. Get in touch with us today and we’ll help you manage your search for employment in Singapore.

Planning to apply for Singapore Permanent Residency (PR)?
Immigration Services – How to Apply for Singapore PR?

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Work Pass

How to Apply for Work Permit or S Pass in Singapore

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Thinking of kicking off your career in Singapore? Well, you’re in luck! Singapore has been ranked as one of the best-ranking places in the world to start your career. The city is known for its world-class infrastructure, top notch healthcare system and high standard of living.  One of the reasons why Singapore is a great place to start your career is the diverse range of industries and job opportunities available. From finance and technology to healthcare and logistics, there’s something for everyone in Singapore.

So, are you ready to kickstart your career in the most vibrant and dynamic cities in the world? Hold your horses! Before you start packing your bags, you’ll need to apply for a Singapore work pass. In this article, we’re aiming to make it as simple, and as quick as possible for you to find all the information you need on how to apply for a work pass in Singapore. Without any further ado, let’s begin!

Types of Singapore Work Pass / Visas for Professionals

A job is a necessity for expats to cover costs like rent, bills, and leisure activities. However, you can’t just move to Singapore and start working right away. Instead, foreigners must obtain a valid work permit (based on their qualifications and work experience) to live and work in Singapore. 

Employment Pass (EP)

First things first, employment pass (EP). To apply for an employment pass,  you have to hold recognized qualifications and relevant work experience. You have to have a monthly salary of at least earn a minimum of SGD 5,000 (or SGD 6,000 if you’re a recent graduate from a recognized institution).  Once obtained, your EP is valid for 2 years and can be renewed for 3 years. Thinking of bringing your family members with you? Good news, you can bring them and renew their passes as long as they continue to meet the eligibility criteria. 

Personalised Employment Pass (PEP)

Moving on, personalised employment pass (PEP). It is a sort of employment pass that is not tied to any particular employer, which means you can switch jobs without having to reapply for a new pass. PEP holders can also bring their family members to Singapore and renew their passes as long as they continue to meet the eligibility criteria. Furthermore, it is also important to note that this work visa is for highly qualified foreign professionals who earn at least SGD 144,000 per year.

EntrePass

Last but not least, EntrePass. If you’re a budding entrepreneur with big dreams, then this might be just the work visa for you. This work visa is specialised for foreign entrepreneurs who want to start a business here. To be eligible to become this type of pass holder, you must have a business plan that meets certain criteria such as innovation, scalability and job creation. Not only that, it is also a must to have funding from a government-recognized venture capitalist or angel investor. 

Types of Singapore Work Pass or Visas for Skilled & Semi-Skilled Workers

How about the skilled and semi-skilled workers? Well, there are two types of work passes that may be helpful to your journey if you fall into this category; S Pass and Work Permit for Foreign Workers. Now, let’s dig more into it! 

S Pass 

First up, we’ve got the S Pass or also known as Singapore Pass. Those foreign workers or mid-level technical workers earning a minimum monthly salary of SGD 2,200 are eligible to apply for an S Pass. Of course, not to forget, you also need to meet certain criteria, like having relevant qualifications and work experience. If you get approved for the S Pass, you’ll be able to work for a specific employer in Singapore for up to two years (renewable). You’ll also be eligible to bring your spouse and kids, and have access to all the awesome benefits or facilities that Singapore has to offer. 

Work Permit for Foreign Workers

Cheerful Vietnamese construction worker spending short break with smartphone in hands

Next, the Work Permit for Foreign Workers. This visa is also known as an employment visa as it allows unskilled foreign labourers to do blue-collar work. To be eligible, you have to have a job offer from a Singaporean employer, and your employer or appointed employment agent must apply for the work permit on your behalf. Unlike S Pass, you cannot bring your family along but you’ll have the chance to work hard, earn money and maybe even learn some new skills. 

Both the S Pass and the Work Permit are great options for skilled and semi-skilled workers who want to work in Singapore. Of course, applying for these work passes can be a bit of a hassle. Therefore, make sure you’ve got all your ducks in a row and meet the criteria before applying. You can also hire a Singapore Manpower Agency to apply for the permit or pass on your behalf. 

Work Pass Application

So, are you ready to get down to the nitty-gritty on how to apply for work permit or pass? Well, hold onto your hats, folks, because this is going to be a wild ride.

How to Apply for an Employment Pass in Singapore?

To get your employment pass game on, you need to make sure that you meet the eligibility criteria, which includes having a job offer from a Singapore employer and meeting certain salary and educational requirements. Once confirmed, you’ll need to gather all the necessary documents and information. Make sure you have copies of everything too, because you don’t want to be caught off-guard. 

Next, your employer will need to apply for the Employment Pass card on your behalf through the Ministry of Manpower (MOM) online portal. In the application form, they need to provide information about the company, the fixed monthly salary paid, the job you’ll be taking on along with your personal and professional details.

Documents Needed to Apply for Employment Pass

Documents such as your passport, educational certificates and proof of your work experience also need to be submitted.

Once submitted, it’ll be reviewed by the MOM. This process can take anywhere from several days to weeks, depending on the complexity. So, always keep an eye out! Once your pass is approved, voilà! You’ll be notified and can then proceed to complete the formalities such getting the pass issued to you and completing the necessary medical exams. 

How to Apply for S Pass in Singapore?

Cheerful young Asian businessman looking at camera and showing credit card. Successful man using cashless payment. Or confident manager offering to use credit card. Banking or money concept

Do you belong to the skilled and semi-skilled workers group? If so, S Pass would be the best option for you. This work pass is slightly more straightforward and pretty convenient than some of the other passes. In order to apply for this, your employer has to apply on your behalf by submitting the application through Singapore’s Ministry of Manpower (MOM) website.

Documents Needed to Apply for S Pass

Supporting documents such as your passport, educational certificates and employment contract need to be submitted by your employer too. 

Now the waiting game begins! The processing time for the application to process usually takes around one to several weeks and you can check the status of your application online. Once approved, your employer can collect the S Pass from MOM. That’s it. Isn’t it as easy as pie? The application process can be a bit tedious but as long as you meet the eligibility criteria and provide all the necessary information, it should be a relatively smooth process. 

Contact a Work Pass Application Services Agency Today

If you’re an employer looking for a reliable construction worker agency, Singapore manpower agency or foreign worker agency, then look no further. Yuanyii Agency partners up with reliable foreign counterparts to provide you with the most suitable talents. Whether you need workers for construction, manufacturing or any other industry, we have a vast network of qualified candidates ready to work. Let our experienced teams save your time and help you out with the process. Contact us today and let us help you streamline your hiring process and find the perfect workers for your organization. 

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Immigration Services

How to Apply for Singapore Permanent Residency

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With strong economic growth and political stability, Singapore is a desirable city to live in. As an expat, you might consider putting down roots and making this Lion City your permanent home. Well, we don’t blame you for wanting to become a permanent resident of Singapore since it is a beautiful and vibrant country that offers a high standard of living, a stable economy, and a multicultural society. If your mind is made up, you will undoubtedly be considering your Singapore Permanent Residence (PR) application. 

Before you consider relocating to Singapore in the long run, you’ll need to determine your eligibility for a permanent resident status. Hence, we’ve written this guide to answer your questions on the benefits of Singapore PR, along with eligibility requirements and application steps.

What is Singapore Permanent Residency (PR)?

If you’re planning to apply to become a permanent resident (PR) in Singapore, you probably already know about some of the perks that come with staying in Singapore. Buckle up and get ready to learn more about Singapore Permanent Residency – the coolest status you can get if you want to live and work in the Lion City on a long-term basis!

Singapore Permanent Residency (PR) is a status granted to foreigners who have been approved to live and work in Singapore on a permanent basis. It’s a highly desired status by many foreigners who have plans to stay, live and work in the country for the long-run. As a PR in Singapore, you’re part of the in-crowd. Numerous benefits will be granted to you such as access to government subsidies for healthcare, education and housing. You can also work and study in Singapore without the need for a visa, and have the flexibility to travel in and out of Singapore without visa restrictions. 

Of course, becoming a PR isn’t all fun and games. The application process may vary for every individual. Some applications may take several months to process, therefore it’s important to ensure that you meet the eligibility criteria, like having a steady job and a clean record. Other factors that the Immigration and Checkpoints Authority (ICA) takes into consideration include your educational qualifications, employment history, income level and length of stay in Singapore. Once you’ve obtained Singapore PR, the sky’s the limit! You’re able to fully immerse yourself in the rich and diverse Singapore culture and participate in the many exciting events and activities that this city has to offer.

Singapore Permanent Resident Benefits

Becoming a permanent resident gives you several benefits that an employment pass holder does not have. Yes, you read that right! Essentially, you can reap most of the amazing benefits and rights that come with Singapore citizenship

Healthcare

First up, healthcare. As a PR, you’ll be able to enjoy some of the best healthcare in the world. And the best part? You won’t have to break the bank for it! You’ll be able to enjoy the medical benefits offered by Singapore’s Central Provident Fund (CPF) board at an affordable rate. And who doesn’t love saving money, right? 

Education

What about my kids’ education? Well, you’ll be able to enroll your kids in local schools and enjoy subsidized fees. Furthermore, permanent residents also have access to the SkillFuture program, which provides subsidies for training and upgrading courses to enhance their skills and knowledge. How cool is that?

Housing

And let’s not forget about housing. You’ll be eligible to purchase a HDB flat or private property in Singapore. You can enjoy better tax and government-subsidized public housing from the Singapore Housing Board Development (HDB). And with the government’s cooling measures, property prices are stabilizing, so it’s a great time to invest in your own home! 

Hassle-Free Travel In and Out of Singapore

Would you be thrilled if we told you, you would be able to work and study without having to worry about visas? Yes, you read that correctly! You’ll be able to travel in and out of Singapore without the need for a visa. Talk about hassle-free! However, don’t forget to check your re-entry permit’s validity before leaving the country.

Experience Singapore’s Vibrant Society

Last but not least, the amazing Singaporean community. You’ll be part of a diverse and inclusive community, where you’ll be able to meet people from all walks of life. Plus, you can participate in the many exciting events and festivals that Singapore has to offer.

Singapore Permanent Resident Eligibility

man with a white sun hat and yellow luggage

How do I make sure I am eligible to be a permanent resident? To make Singapore your home, you must meet certain immigration requirements set forth by the government. 

Valid Work Pass

Firstly you need a valid work pass. This includes Employment Pass, Entrepreneur Pass, Personalised Employment Pass or S-Pass. It’s vital that you give something of value locally and ensure that your contribution to Singapore is credible and reliable. For our Malaysian friends out there, if you’re interested to work here, there are a bunch of job agencies in Singapore that specialise in helping Malaysians find work, like Yuanyii Agency. They’ll match you with potential employers and provide some handy tips and tricks to help you ace your job interview. 

Live & Work in Singapore for 6 Months

Now, have you been living and working in Singapore for at least six months? If yes, then you’re good to go! This shows your commitment to the country and your ability to adapt to Singaporean diverse culture and lifestyle. If you’re holding a Student pass, you must have been in Singapore for at least 2 years to be eligible for PR. 

Good Track Record of Conduct

To prove yourself as a worthy permanent resident, you need to have a good track record of conduct and show that you are a law-abiding citizen. This means that you have to be on your best behavior and steer clear of any legal troubles.  

Steady Income & Financial Assets

Lastly, you’ll need to demonstrate that you have a steady income and financial assets to support yourself and any dependents you may have. This could include proof of employment, qualifying salary, bank statements, tax returns and other financial documents. It’s important to consider the cost of living in Singapore, which can be quite high compared to other countries.

Tips to Apply for Singapore Permanent Residency (PR)

man handing over documents at counter

Now, are you ready to take the plunge and become a Singapore PR? Amazing! Let’s get over the steps for on how to apply for Singapore Permanent Residency and immigration process together. 

Prepare Necessary Documents

First things first, before applying for PR, you’ll need to gather all the necessary documents, such as your passport, educational certificates and employment records (including your monthly salary, and any work permit or work visa you currently have on hand). Remember, there’s more to it than just filling out forms and sending in documents. A small error can lead to an applicant’s application being rejected. This is where Yuanyii Agency comes to the rescue. Yuanyii Agency is a Singapore manpower agency and immigration specialist that provides assistance in employment, work pass application and relocation or immigration services. We have years of consultancy experience and have helped many to obtain their residency. 

Visit ICA Website

Next up, it’s time to hit the ICA (Immigration and Checkpoints Authority) website and start filling out your application. Here at Yuanyii Agency, we offer immigration services including investment immigration and Singapore PR. Our professional immigration consultants will assist you in your PR application process as we are trained to understand all the requirements and regulations laid by Singapore’s Immigration, Ministry of Manpower (MOM) and ICA.  

ICA to Process Application

After submitting your application and paying the fee, you’ll need to wait for the ICA to process your application. It may take from six to twelve months for the processing to be completed, so patience is a virtue during this time. The ICA may request additional documents or information to support your application. Make sure to provide any requested information promptly to avoid any delays in the processing time. 

Letter of Approval from ICA

Once your application has been processed, you’ll receive a letter from the ICA notifying you of the outcome. If your application is approved, congratulations! However, keeping your status as PR and continuing to leave and enter the country will require that you apply for a Re-Entry (REP) every 5 years. Without a valid REP, a PR outside Singapore will lose their PR status. 

What if my PR application gets rejected?

Well, apply again. There’s no cap as to how many times you can apply for the permanent residency. Many ideal candidates out there often get rejected so if you got rejected on your first attempt, do not give up.

Engage with a Singapore PR Application Agency today!

Contact us to arrange a complimentary one-on-one consultation either in person or online. Our experienced immigration advisors can provide immigration compliance strategies and guide you through the Singapore immigration system so you can get your Singapore PR application approved.

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Work Pass

Singapore Manpower Agency – Work Pass Application Services

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Work Pass Application Services

Navigating the restrictions of employment in Singapore can be a complex process. That is why many foreigners and Malaysians opt to hire Singapore manpower agencies for a one-stop HR solution to save their time and effort. Recruitment agencies in Singapore offer a variety of services including employment placement, work pass applications and also immigration services. Understanding the difference between the various types of work permits is essential for anyone wanting to start working in Singapore. This article discusses the key differences between a Singapore Work Permit, an S Pass and an Employment Pass (EP) as specified by the Singapore Ministry of Manpower (MOM). We also look at what employers need to know when hiring foreign workers for their company in Singapore.

What Are the Different Types of Work Pass in Singapore?

Singapore is a major ex-pat hub, and those looking to work in the city have the right paperwork. Work permit, S Pass, and Employment Pass are three of the most important documents needed by foreign nationals who want to work legally in Singapore. 

Work Permits

Firstly, low or semi-skilled foreign workers are classified under Work Permits holders. Most of the workers come from sectors such as services, manufacturing, construction, or marine shipyard. Only workers from a few pre-approved Asian countries are eligible for the work permit, with no minimum salary requisite. The permit will only last up to 2 years, depending on the worker’s passport, security bond, and employment period. 

S Pass

Mid-skilled staff are eligible to apply for S Pass. Employees were required to earn at least S$3000 monthly fixed income. S Pass: You must be a diploma, degree holder, or technical certificate holder. The validity of an S pass is up to 2 years.

Employment Pass (EP)

Employment Pass, or E-pass, are only eligible for foreign highly skilled expertise. This employment pass is for foreign professionals, managers, executives, and those with specialised skills who wish to work in Singapore long-term. To qualify for this pass, they must meet certain at least S$5000 monthly fixed income and professional educational qualifications.

Who Qualifies to Apply for an Employment Pass (EP) in Singapore?

For candidates looking to take advantage of the exciting job opportunities in Singapore, it is important to understand the requirements for obtaining an Employment Pass (EP). Applicants for EP can be from any nationality; the foreign professional must have an actual job offer to work in Singapore. The job position should be at least managerial, executive, or specialist level. Besides, to be eligible for an EP permit, applicants must meet one of the most critical criteria: candidates who graduated from reputable universities must earn at least S$5000 fixed monthly income. The likelihood of EP application will be accepted if you are a university graduate with professional qualifications and specialised skills would be the best. Candidates must meet a minimum of 40 points under the new point-based COMPASS (Complementarity Assessment Framework), which is evaluated based on an individual’s qualifications and organisation attributes. In addition, all candidates must be fully vaccinated against COVID-19 as of February 1, 2022, to be accepted.

Employment Pass (EP) – Application, Renewal & Cancellation 

Singapore Employment Pass (EP) is one of the most sought-after residencies passes available in the country. This pass gives foreign professionals access to Singapore’s job market and a wide range of privileges, such as secure employment rights and generous tax benefits. The employment pass includes three processes: application, renewal, and cancellation. Knowing each process related to your likelihood of acceptance, renewal, or cancellation is necessary.

Application

Anyone applying for an EP must meet certain criteria set by the Ministry of Manpower (MOM) before they can be approved. Applying for an EP begins with submitting a comprehensive online form on MOM’s website. Once this is done, applicants must provide supporting documents such as their qualifications, employment records, passport copies and other relevant information. The process usually takes up to 10 days from filing to approval and within eight weeks for overseas companies without Singapore-registered companies. However, it may take longer if additional information is requested. Both candidates and agents will get updated if the application is successful, and a pass card will be sent to the provided address within five working days after everything is settled. The duration of EP for first-time candidates would be up to 2 years, and renewal is compulsory after the period.

Renewal

For your information, renewal is allowed up to 6 months before expiration. However, for sponsorship form EP, renewal three months prior to expiration is allowed, whilst renewal application has to reach MOM 2 months prior expiration date. Employers or employment agents are responsible for this renewal process. The renewed pass card lasts up to 3 years, and it’s not affected by the pass holder’s passport validity. The cost of each pass is S$225 and is S$30 for each Multiple Journey visas if applicable. Your application will take up to 10 business days for an update and eight weeks for sponsorship-type EP.

Cancellation

Lastly, cancellation occurs when you are no longer working with your employer or will soon leave Singapore permanently. Before cancelling your EP, you are required to provide reasonable notice of repatriation. Don’t forget to seek tax clearance from the Inland Revenue Authority of Singapore (IRAS) whilst settling all your outstanding employment issues. Employers or any Singapore manpower agency handling the overall process be responsible for the costs of the pass holder’s air ticket to their hometown unless the pass holder agrees to bear their own expense. For cancellation applications, pass holders are allowed to submit cancellation requests up to 14 days in advance; the cancellation is immediate unless you submit an advance cancellation request. There is an exception in which a pass card will be automatically cancelled if the pass holder becomes a permanent Singapore resident. Gently reminder here to cut the pass card in half and discard it immediately to prevent misuse.

The Difference Between Singapore Work Permit, S Pass & Employment Pass

Singapore’s labour market is complex, with various work permits for foreign employees. Understanding the differences between Singapore Work Permit, S Pass, and Employment Pass is important for employers or potential employees looking to work in Singapore.

Singapore Work Permit (WP) 

A Singapore Work Permit (WP) is a type of permit issued to those who hold lower or semi-skilled jobs, such as services, manufacturing, construction, marine, shipyard or process sector. As such, construction worker agencies mainly deal with work permits for foreign workers. There is no minimum qualifying salary. However, only workers from the pre-approved list of countries are eligible for this permit. While the validity period for a license is up to 2 years, the family dependents are not allowed to apply for a work permit at different times. A levy will also be imposed on employers, depending on the nationality and salary of their employees. Unfortunately, as every sector has different sets of quotas for employers and due to recent tightening measures, the service sector quota has faced a 5% decrease, and many WP holders might face job loss in the future. S Pass is applicable for mid-skilled workers, for the processing time usually will be within three weeks unless more information is required. 

Not sure how to apply for work permit? Click here.

S Pass

Candidates applying for S Pass should be offered at least S$2,500 of fixed monthly salary to be accepted, and the pass duration is up to 2 years as well. Just like the Work Permit holders, the S-Pass Holders have a 10% quota limiting the number of workers in the service sector and 18% in all other sectors as of 1 January 202. A smaller allocation of 15% in all other sectors will be implemented as of 2023. A monthly levy and health insurance are necessary for your employee with a validity of 2 years. Additionally, dependents are entitled to apply for a pass to reside in Singapore.

Employment Pass (EP)

The Employment Pass is designed for managerial, executive or specialised positions with at least a S$5000 fixed monthly salary for high-skilled workers and is up to S$10,500 for mid-40s candidates. The holder must have a degree or diploma from an accredited institution. Optimistically, no foreign worker levy or quota is required for employment passes, which is cost savings. At the same time, employers can decide whether to provide health insurance for EP employee holders. The Employment Pass is more favourable as it allows holders to be sponsored for permanent residency in Singapore after two years. In conclusion, the overall minimum documents needed for application would be a particular page of the candidate’s passport, the company’s latest business profile or instant information with ACRA. Besides, a candidate’s educational certificate is required for candidates who applied for S Pass or Employment Pass.

In brief, Singapore Work Permit, S Pass, and Employment Pass have distinct advantages and disadvantages. Understanding the differences between them is key to navigating the Singaporean job market. The application process requires careful consideration and due diligence on the part of employers and employees. Employers and employees must be aware of the responsibilities associated with each pass before deciding which one is best.

Want to know more about E Pass application services? Click here.

Reasons Your Employment Pass (EP) Gets Rejected

Receiving a rejection letter for your employment pass application in Singapore can be disheartening. Before you hit the redo button or hiring an employment agency for their services, it’s essential to understand why your application was rejected. Employment pass rejections could be due to various reasons, such as personal use, suspicious calculation of your background, lack of skills, employer discriminatory history or health issues. 

Misuse of Pass For Personal Purposes

First and foremost is the misuse of the pass for personal purposes. This includes failing to adhere to the guidelines for working in Singapore and engaging in activities outside their job scope or unrelated to the original intent of obtaining an Employment Pass.

Insufficient Documents

Another common reason for rejection is ability calculation errors or insufficient proof/documentation provided by employers or candidates during the process. The ratio of your pay, rank, education and ability presented red flags to the MOM, which you still need to meet the requirements for employment in Singapore. Your or your employer’s ill-will was never a factor, just the MOM proportional determination.

Applicant’s Abilities & Qualifications

Next, the government assumes that your abilities and qualifications aren’t something unique or valuable to Singapore. Framing the work as a whole makes you more appealing to others, so if you convince them everything can be done by local professionals, an application may be rejected for Singapore Employment Pass. How your qualifications and skills were portrayed in your professional application profile shaped things greatly. It a better to leave your EP appeal in the hands of professional visa experts or experienced Singapore manpower agencies in handling Federal visa requests.

History of Discriminatory Acts

Besides, a history of discriminatory acts by your employer could also result in an EP rejection. Believe it or not, if your employer hires few to no local workers, your EP might also get affected. Lastly, health issues are one of the most important factors for MOM to accept or reject your application. You might get your EP rejected if you are diagnosed with a serious illness.

Contact a Singapore Manpower Agency Today!

If you are looking for a Singapore manpower agency to outsource your HR needs such as staffing services or ease your recruitment process, check out Yuanyii Agency, a Singapore job agency for Malaysians. We specialize in recruitment or employment services, work pass applications and immigration services. Drop us a message or contact us today, let us help you find the right talent with the right skills.

Categories
Work Pass

IN-PRINCIPLE APPROVAL LETTER (IPA)

It has come to our attention that there are a lot of people who only know they need a valid work pass to work in Singapore but do not know what an IPA is.

In this post we will tell you the full procedure from when you get hired for a job to when you finally start your first day of work in Singapore.

What is In-Principle Approval (IPA) letter?

When you get your offer from a company, and you accept it, the company will apply for an In-Principle Approval (IPA) letter from the Ministry of Manpower (MOM). This letter indicates that MOM has approved the request that you will be working under this company and this company only.

Work Permit, SPass, EPass holders are all required to have an approved IPA before they are deemed as officially enrolled for the job position.

What’s next after receiving IPA letter?

Upon receiving the IPA, you should look at Page 2 and go through what you must do before you are allowed to officially start work. This often includes going for medical checkups and courses required by MOM. You must complete all the steps otherwise your company will not be able to issue work pass and you may not start work.

Once all the steps have been completed and your company has issued your work pass, they will make an appointment for you at the MOM services center to register your thumbprint and take a photo so they can print your card and mail it to your company address within 1 to 4 weeks. Bring along your passport, Notification Letter, Appointment Letter to the MOM appointment.

After completing the above, you are now ready to start work!

Please do not hesitate to contact us if you have any further enquiries,

Yuanyii Agency is here to help!

Categories
Work Pass

3 COMMON TYPES OF WORK PASS

All foreigners who intend to work in Singapore must have a valid work pass (work visa) before they start work. The 3 most common types of work passes are the Work Permit (WP), S Pass (SP) and Employment Pass (EP).

3 Common Types of Work Pass in Singapore

WORK PERMIT (WP)

Who is it for?Workers from Malaysia, China or NAS countries working in all sectors. Some sectors allow workers from NTS countries to take WP too.
Who can apply?An employer or appointed employment agent needs to apply for the permit.
Qualifying SalaryNo minimum required.
Duration of passUp to 2 years, depending on the validity of the worker’s passport, security bond and employment period.
Is it renewable?Yes.
Passes for familyNot available.
Quota & LevyEmployers are limited by a quota for their sector and have to pay a monthly levy for each worker.
Different sectors have different quota and different companies have different levy amount.
Medical InsuranceEmployers must provide medical insurance for their employees.
Primary Care PlanEmployers must buy the Primary Care Plan (PCP) for their WP employees if they:
– Stay in dormitories
OR
– Working in the construction, marine shipyard or process (CMP) sectors.

S Pass (SP)

Who is it for?Mid-level skilled workers
Who can apply?An employer or appointed employment agent needs to apply for the pass.
Qualifying salaryMinimum of $3,000 (and increases progressively with age, up to $4,500 for those in mid-40s).
Duration of passUp to 2 years.
Is it renewable?Yes.
Passes for familyLTVP and DP is available.
Quota & LevyEmployers are limited by a quota for their sector and have to pay a monthly levy for each worker.
Different sectors have different quota and different companies have different levy amount.
Medical InsuranceEmployers must provide medical insurance for their employees.
Primary Care PlanEmployers must buy the Primary Care Plan (PCP) for their WP employees if they:
– Stay in dormitories
OR
– Working in the construction, marine shipyard or process (CMP) sectors.

EMPLOYMENT PASS (EP)

Who is it for?Foreign professionals, managers and executives with a job offer in Singapore.
Who can apply?An employer or appointed employment agent needs to apply for the pass.
Qualifying salaryMinimum of $5,000 (and increases progressively with age, up to $10,500 for those in the mid-40s.) 
Duration of passThe duration of the pass is as follows:
First-time candidates: up to 2 years
Renewals: up to 3 years

Experienced tech professionals with skills in shortage may be eligible for a longer 5-year duration pass.
Is it renewable?Yes.
Passes for familyLTVP and DP is available.
Quota & LevyNo foreign worker levy or quota required.
Medical InsuranceEmployers can choose whether to provide medical insurance for EP holders.

Looking for work pass application services in Singapore? Click here.

Categories
General

PRIMARY CARE PLAN (PCP)

By 31 March 2023, all employers must buy Primary Care Plan (PCP) for their employees which will cover most of the employee’s primary healthcare needs under a fixed scope of services.

Primary Care Plan (PCP) Scheme

Who is eligible:

A PCP is mandatory for Work Permit holders (excluding MDWs) and S Pass holders who:

  • Stay in dormitories

OR

  • Work in CMP sectors

PCP is optional for Work Permit and S Pass holders who live in the community and work in non-CMP sectors.

Benefits of PCP:

  • Provide quality, accessible and affordable primary care to migrant workers
  • Support proactive public health surveillance to minimize risks of large outbreaks and work disruption
  • Provide peace of mind for both employers and migrant workers

Services included:

  • One statutory medical examination for work pass application or renewal
  • Unlimited acute and chronic consultations
  • One annual basic health screening
  • Telemedicine and medication delivery
  • Scheduled transportation to and from dormitories and MOM medical centers. Prioritized for workers who are reporting sick at MOM medical centers. Excludes routine specialist appointments.
  • Ambulance or special transport services to other medical facilities, if necessary.

Eligible employees can get the services at:

  • 24/7 telemedicine services (FWMOMCare)
  • Medical centers
  • Designated GP clinics in partnership with Anchor Operators

Price:

PCP price range from $108 to $138 per worker annually, payable by monthly instalments.

You must buy PCP for eligible employees from Anchor Operators (AOs) based on where your employee stays.

Employees must also pay additional fees:

  • $5 (excluding GST) for medical treatment at each visit to the medical center
  • $2 (excluding GST) for each telemedicine service
Categories
Work Pass

LAUNCH OF NEW WORK PASS FROM 2023

The new Overseas Networks & Expertise Pass is introduced for top talents from any sector earning a monthly salary of minimum S$30,000. Alternatively, individuals with outstanding achievements in arts and culture, science and technology, academia and research, or sports may qualify, even if they do not meet the salary criterion.

Overseas Networks & Expertise Pass

Key details of the pass

Who is it forTop talents in the area of business, arts and culture, science and technology, academia and research, or sports.
EligibilityCandidates may apply directly if they meet the eligibility criteria.

More details will be released closer to 1 January 2023.
Minimum Salary– Earned a fixed monthly salary of at least S$30,000 within the last 12 months
OR
– Will earn a fixed monthly salary of at least S$30,000 under their future employer based in Singapore

Note: Individuals with outstanding achievements in arts and culture, science and technology, academia and research, or sports may qualify, even if they do not meet the salary criteria.
Duration of pass– First time candidates: 5 years
– Subsequent renewals: 5 years
RenewabilityYes, if meet the renewal criteria.
Family passesDependant’s Pass and Long Term Visit Pass is available for certain family members.

Spouses of the pass holder may obtain a Letter of Consent to work in Singapore.
Quota/Foreign worker levyNo quota or foreign worker levy is required.

Salary criteria

Existing work pass holders and overseas candidates can apply if they meet either of the salary criteria below:

  • Earned a fixed monthly salary of at least S$30,000 within the last 12 months
  • Will earn a fixed monthly salary of at least S$30,000 under their future employer based in Singapore

In addition to meeting the salary criteria above, overseas candidates will also need to show that they have been working for an established company overseas for at least 1 year, or will be working for an established company in Singapore.

For a company to be considered established, it must have a market capitalization of at least US$500 million or an annual revenue of at least US$200 million.

The Overseas Networks & Expertise Pass is renewable for 5 years each time. To be eligible for renewal, the pass holder must meet either of the following:

  • Earned a fixed monthly salary of at least S$30,000 on average over the past 5 years in Singapore.
  • Started and is operating a Singapore-based company that employs at least 5 locals, each earning at least S$5,000 (pegged to the EP minimum qualifying salary).

Outstanding Achievements

Individuals with outstanding achievements achievements in arts and culture, science and technology, academia and research, or sports may qualify for Overseas Networks & Expertise Pass, even if they do not meet the salary criteria. More details on the eligibility criteria for new applications and renewals under this route will be released closer to 1 January 2023. 

Benefits of the Pass

The Overseas Networks & Expertise Pass is a personalized pass tied to the individual and gives greater employment flexibility:

  • You can start, operate, and work for multiple companies at any one time.
  • You do not need to reapply for a new pass if you change jobs.
  • Your spouse will be able to work on a Letter of Consent.

Overseas Networks & Expertise Pass holders will not be subjected to the Complementarity Assessment Framework (COMPASS) and employers who wish to hire them are not subjected to the Fair Consideration Framework job advertising requirement.

To ensure that the Overseas Networks & Expertise Pass holders are utilizing the flexibilities given to contribute meaningfully, MOM will request for the following information from the pass holders yearly: 

  • Details on all your professional activities over the past year.
  • The annual salary you have earned from all professional activities.

This will contribute to their assessment of your eligibility for renewal.

Categories
Work Pass

CHANGES TO E PASS ELIGIBILITY

Beginning on 1 September 2022, the Ministry of Manpower (MOM) will raise the standard of qualifying salaries and levies for E Pass holders. This is to ensure the quality of E Pass holders to become the top one-third of our local Professionals, Managers, Executives and Technicians (PMETs) workforce.

Changes to E Pass qualifying salaries

Older candidates will require a higher salary to qualify. As well as the financial services sector due to higher wage norms.

The change in minimum qualifying salary for E Pass applications and renewals is shown below:

  • New applications from 1 September 2022
  • Renewals from 1 September 2023
SectorsCurrent minimum qualifying salaryNew minimum qualifying salary
All (Exclude financial Services)$4,500
Increases with age, up to $8,400 for those in mid-40s.
$5,000
Increases with age, up to $10,500 for those in mid-40s.
Financial Services$5,000
Increases with age, up to $9,300 for those in mid-40s.
$5,500
Increases with age, up to $11,500 for those in mid-40s.
Categories
Work Pass

CHANGES TO S PASS ELIGIBILITY

Beginning on 1 September 2022, the Ministry of Manpower (MOM) will raise the qualifying salaries and levies for S Pass holders. This is to improve the quality of S Pass holders to become the top one-third of our local Associate Professionals and Technicians (APT) workforce. S Pass quotas will also be updated from 1 January 2023.

Changes to S Pass qualifying salaries

Older candidates will require a higher salary to qualify. The change in minimum qualifying salary for S Pass applications and renewals is shown below:

SectorFrom 1 Sep 2022: New ApplicationsFrom 1 Sep 2023: Renewal of S Pass
Financial Services$3,000
Increases with age, up to $4,500 for those in mid-40s.
All (Exclude Financial Services)$3,500
Increases with age, up to $5,500 for those in mid-40s.

Changes to S Pass levy rates

The S Pass Basic/Tier 1 levy rate will be raised in 3 steps, as shown below:

From 1 Sep 2022From 1 Sep 2023From 1 Sept 2025
Change from $330 to $450Change from $450 to $550Change from $550 to $650

There will be no changes to the levy for Tier 2 S Pass holders, which will remain at $650.

Changes to S Pass quota from 1 Jan 2023:

SectorFrom 1 Jan 2023
– Manufacturing
– Construction
– Marine Shipyard
– Process
Change from 18% to 15% of total workforce
– ServiceNo change