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You can apply to renew an Employment Pass (EP) up to 6 months before it expires. The employer or appointed agent applies in MOM's myMOM Portal. MOM charges S$225 for pass issuance, plus S$30 per multiple-entry visa if used, and a renewed pass is valid up to 3 years.
Checked on MOM's renewal page, last updated by MOM on . This is an independent guide, not MOM. For S Pass and Work Permit timing, see the work pass renewal guide.
When should you start the renewal?
The window opens 6 months before expiry. Holders of an EP (Sponsorship) start 3 months before. Starting at the opening of the window leaves room if MOM asks questions. With a decision in 10 business days for most online cases, a 6-month window gives spare time for a request, an appeal or a back-up plan.
Do not rely on the old pass running to its last day. MOM says the renewed pass is issued before either the approval letter or the current pass expires, whichever is first.
What does MOM test again?
Three conditions apply, as MOM states:
- The holder earns at least the EP qualifying salary. See the salary page for the current scale.
- The holder works for the same employer in a managerial, executive or specialised job.
- The holder passes COMPASS. A fixed monthly salary of S$22,500 or more is exempt.
Meeting the test again is not automatic. A holder whose pay stayed flat while the salary floor rose can fall below the line. The COMPASS guide shows how points are scored. The new floors that start on are in the Employment Pass guide.
What does it cost?
| Item | MOM fee |
|---|---|
| Pass issuance | S$225 |
| multiple-entry visa, if needed | S$30 each |
Agent fees are separate and not set by MOM.
How long does it take?
| Route | MOM timing |
|---|---|
| myMOM Portal | Processed or given an update within 10 business days |
| EP (Sponsorship) | Within 6 weeks for most cases |
What are the steps?
- Log in to the myMOM Portal, or download the EP (Sponsorship) renewal form.
- Submit the application and supporting documents. MOM does not list the documents on the page we read and tells applicants to check the form.
- Receive the in-principle approval (IPA), valid for 3 months.
- Have the pass issued before the IPA or the current pass expires.
- Read the notification letter, which says whether you keep the existing card or get a new one.
You can follow the case with the steps in how to check your EP status.
How long does the renewed pass last?
Up to 3 years. A first Employment Pass runs up to 2 years, and experienced tech professionals with skills in shortage may get 5 years on a first pass. If you have a family on Dependant's Passes, the dependants' passes follow their own steps, in the Dependant Pass guide.
What if you miss the date or are refused?
The renewal page we read does not set out a grace period for the Employment Pass, and our all-passes renewal guide notes that if the renewal deadline passes a new pass application is needed. For refusals, the employer receives reasons and can appeal. See work pass rejection.
Do you need a provider?
Employers with Corppass access can renew in-house. A provider can run the salary and COMPASS check before filing. If you want that, use the quote form on this page. We pass your request to suitable providers and may earn a referral fee. The renewal rules above come from MOM.
Sources
- MOM, renew an Employment Pass: https://www.mom.gov.sg/passes-and-permits/employment-pass/renew-a-pass (window, S$225, S$30, tests, steps, timing, validity).
- MOM, Employment Pass key facts: https://www.mom.gov.sg/passes-and-permits/employment-pass/key-facts (first pass up to 2 years, up to 5 years for shortage tech skills).