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The S Pass is MOM's pass for skilled foreign workers in associate professional and technician roles. New candidates need to earn at least S$3,300 a month. MOM charges S$105 to apply and S$100 for each pass issued, and says online applications are processed or given an update within 10 business days.
Checked on MOM pages last updated between and . This guide is independent and is not MOM.
Who is the S Pass for?
MOM says the S Pass gives employers flexibility to hire mid-level skilled workers who may not qualify for an Employment Pass. The candidate needs a job offer in Singapore and a fixed monthly salary comparable to the top third of the local workforce in these roles, by age. MOM adds that the candidate's qualifications should be authentic and from accredited institutions. If the person is a professional, manager or executive, look at the Employment Pass instead.
What salary does an S Pass need?
| Sector | Now, age 23 or below | Now, age 45 and above | From , age 23 or below | From , age 45 and above |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Most sectors | S$3,300 | S$4,800 | S$3,600 | S$5,100 |
| Financial services | S$3,800 | S$5,650 | S$4,000 | S$5,650 |
The floor rises with age between those end points. MOM's S Pass overview also says the pass is subject to quota and levy, but the pages we read do not show the levy amounts. Employers should read the quota and levy page for their sector.
What does it cost?
| Item | MOM fee |
|---|---|
| Application | S$105 |
| Pass issuance, per pass | S$100 |
Medical insurance is mandatory, the candidate has a medical exam after arrival, and work injury compensation insurance is required. MOM also says a Primary Care Plan applies to certain workers. These costs are not in the fee table above, and MOM does not set one amount for them on the page we read.
How long does it take?
| Stage | MOM timing |
|---|---|
| Decision | Processed or given an update within 10 business days |
| After approval | 60 days to enter Singapore |
| Pass issuance | Immediate |
| Biometrics, if asked | Within 1 week |
| Card delivery | Within 5 working days after registration or document verification |
The passport must be valid for at least 7 months, and MOM limits the S Pass to 1 month before passport expiry. The steps are: submit with consent and documents, prepare the arrival (insurance, medical exam), get the pass issued once the candidate is in Singapore, register fingerprints and photo if asked, then set up the digital pass on the SGWorkPass app. Renewal details sit in our work pass renewal guide.
Can family come with an S Pass holder?
MOM says holders earning at least S$6,000 a month can apply for a Dependant's Pass for a spouse and children. The rules are explained on the Dependant Pass page.
Can an S Pass holder run a company?
No. MOM states that an S Pass holder cannot be a director or sole-proprietor of a business. Holders who want to start a business must end their employment and apply for an EntrePass. MOM's general FAQ adds that S Pass and Work Permit holders cannot register at ACRA as a sole-proprietor, partner, director or secretary, and a breach can mean the pass is revoked and an employment ban. Read the EntrePass guide for the other route.
Do you need a provider?
The employer applies, with or without help. An employment agent can check quota and salary fit before filing. If you want help, use the quote form on this page. We pass your request to suitable providers and may earn a referral fee. Fees and rules above come from MOM.
Sources
- MOM, S Pass: https://www.mom.gov.sg/passes-and-permits/s-pass (purpose, S$3,300 floor, quota and levy mention).
- MOM, S Pass eligibility: https://www.mom.gov.sg/passes-and-permits/s-pass/eligibility (salary scales, S$6,000 dependants rule).
- MOM, apply for an S Pass: https://www.mom.gov.sg/passes-and-permits/s-pass/apply-for-a-pass (S$105, S$100, timings, passport rule).
- MOM FAQ, starting a business on an S Pass: https://www.mom.gov.sg/faq/s-pass/can-i-start-my-own-business-if-i-am-on-s-pass (no director or sole-proprietor).
- MOM FAQ, directors and secretaries: https://www.mom.gov.sg/faq/work-pass-general/can-s-pass-or-work-permit-holders-be-registered-as-company-directors (ACRA registration ban, penalties).
