How Many Types of Work Passes Are There in Singapore? (Singapore Work Pass Summary and Interpretation)

Singapore's work passes are divided into three main categories, applicable to different types of foreign employees: Work Permit (WP), S Pass (SP), and Employment Pass (EP). Each type of pass has different applicable groups and requirements. The following is a detailed introduction.

1. Work Permit (WP)

Work Permits are suitable for lower-skilled foreign workers, usually applied for by employers on behalf of employees, and are divided into three main categories:

1. Construction, Marine Shipyard, and Manufacturing WP: Applicable to workers in these specific industries.
2. Foreign Domestic Worker WP: For foreign domestic helpers.
3. Other Sectors WP: Applicable to other low-skilled workers, such as service industry workers, cleaners, etc.

The working conditions of WP holders are strongly related to the industry. WP holders in certain specific industries may enjoy exemption policies, such as Dependency Ratio Ceiling (DRC) exemptions, with specific conditions depending on industry needs.

2. S Pass (SP)

The S Pass is suitable for mid-skilled foreign employees, requiring applicants to have certain educational qualifications or professional credentials and meet the salary standards set by Singapore's Ministry of Manpower (MOM). S Pass holders can work in multiple industries, with a higher salary threshold than WP, typically applicable to positions such as technicians and technical personnel.

• Spouses and children can apply for Long-Term Visit Pass (LTVP): S Pass holders can apply for residence permits for their family members, and those who meet the criteria may also receive certain exemption policies, such as job advertising exemptions.

3. Employment Pass (EP)

The Employment Pass is suitable for highly skilled professionals and managers, typically requiring higher salary and educational background. EP is divided into several sub-types:

1. Regular Work EP: Applied for highly skilled employees, with salary requirements starting from SGD 5,000.
2. Self-Employed EP: Suitable for self-employed applicants, applied through establishing a company in Singapore.
3. Personalised Employment Pass (PEP): Offers greater flexibility, not tied to a specific employer, suitable for high-income professionals.
4. EntrePass: Suitable for entrepreneurs of innovative enterprises.
5. Tech.Pass: Established for highly skilled tech professionals and entrepreneurs.
6. ONE Pass: Targeted at international top talents, with greater flexibility and wider industry applicability.

For details, please refer to the following content:

Detailed Introduction to Singapore Tech.Pass

Detailed Introduction to Singapore ONE Pass for Top Talents

Introduction to Singapore EntrePass

Introduction to Singapore PEP (Personalised Employment Pass)

What is Singapore EP? (Comprehensive Analysis of Singapore EP)

4. Special Work Permits and Exemptions

Singapore's Ministry of Manpower has stipulated some exemptions and special work permits:

• Student and Training Passes: Such as Work Holiday Pass and Training Employment Pass, applicable to students or short-term interns.
• Dependent Work Permits: When spouses or children hold a Dependant's Pass or Long-Term Visit Pass (LTVP), those who meet the criteria can apply for work permits.
• Work Pass Exemptions: Some short-term workers or highly skilled personnel may be exempt from work pass requirements under specific conditions, typically applicable to short-term projects or training activities.

Summary

Singapore work passes are divided into three main categories: WP, SP, and EP. Each type of pass has specific applicable groups and industry requirements. WP is suitable for low-skilled workers, SP is suitable for technical personnel, and EP is designed for highly skilled professionals and managers. Applicants should choose the appropriate type of pass based on their personal circumstances and understand the relevant exemptions and special permit policies.