Types of Work Visas in Singapore
Singapore has established itself as one of the most powerful business hubs in Asia. Known for its economic stability, low taxation, and innovation-friendly environment, Singapore continues to attract global professionals, entrepreneurs, and skilled workers. However, to legally work in this vibrant nation, securing the right type of Singapore work visa is essential.
In this comprehensive 2025 guide by Globexa Immigration – Best Immigration Consultant in Panipat, we will explore all the major types of work visas in Singapore, eligibility criteria, validity, and application details. Whether you are a job seeker or a business owner planning to hire foreign workers, this blog will serve as your roadmap.
1. Why Consider Working in Singapore?
Before diving into the types of work passes, let’s look at why so many professionals choose Singapore:
🌐 Global Business Hub with opportunities in tech, finance, logistics, and biotech
🛡️ Safe, Clean & Modern living conditions with top-notch healthcare and education
💬 English-speaking Nation, making communication seamless for Indians
💰 Attractive Salaries and Low Taxes
✈️ Strategic Location in Southeast Asia with access to global markets
2. Types of Work Visas in Singapore (2025 Update)
Singapore’s Ministry of Manpower (MOM) offers a range of employment passes. The right one for you depends on your salary, qualifications, and occupation. Let’s explore them in detail.
2.1 Employment Pass (EP)
Who is it for?
Professionals, managers, executives, and specialists with job offers in Singapore.
Key Requirements (2025):
Monthly salary of SGD 5,000 or more (higher for experienced candidates)
Recognized degree, diploma, or strong professional experience
Application evaluated under the COMPASS Framework (Complementarity Assessment Framework)
COMPASS Factors:
Salary level
Qualifications
Diversity contribution to the workforce
Skills on shortage occupation list (SOL)
Validity:
Initial: 1 to 2 years
Renewable up to 3 years
Benefits:
Ability to apply for Dependant Pass for family
Pathway to Permanent Residency (PR)
2.2 S Pass
Who is it for?
Mid-level skilled workers in sectors such as manufacturing, logistics, construction, and healthcare.
Key Requirements:
Minimum salary: SGD 3,150/month (higher for older or more experienced applicants)
Diploma or relevant technical certification
Employers must meet quota and pay a monthly levy
Validity:
Up to 2 years, renewable
Points-Based System (2025):
Applications are now scored based on applicant background and employer details.
Challenges:
Quota restrictions make approvals competitive
2.3 Work Permit (WP)
Who is it for?
Semi-skilled and unskilled workers in specific sectors such as:
Construction
Marine
Manufacturing
Process
Services
Key Requirements:
No formal education required (skill-based assessment may apply)
Subject to sector-specific quotas and Dependency Ratio Ceiling (DRC)
Medical check-up and employer sponsorship required
Validity:
Up to 2 years
Renewable if criteria are met
Notes:
Tied to a specific employer
Cannot bring dependants
Employers must provide accommodation and health insurance
2.4 EntrePass
Who is it for?
Entrepreneurs, innovators, and startup founders planning to launch a business in Singapore.
Key Requirements:
Business must be in a qualifying sector (e.g., tech, sustainability, biotech, AI)
Must submit a comprehensive business plan
Company should be registered with ACRA within 6 months of application
Validity:
1 year initially
Renewable based on business performance and local hiring
Benefits:
Bring family after 1 year
PR eligibility after a few years of success
2.5 Personalised Employment Pass (PEP)
Who is it for?
Top-tier professionals seeking flexibility in Singapore’s job market.
Key Requirements:
Minimum monthly fixed salary of SGD 22,500
Current or recent EP holders or overseas professionals with proven track record
Validity:
3 years (non-renewable)
Advantages:
Not tied to any employer
Can stay in Singapore for up to 6 months between jobs
Explore job opportunities across industries
2.6 Overseas Networks & Expertise Pass (ONE Pass)
Who is it for?
Exceptional global talent with a proven record of excellence.
Key Requirements:
Monthly fixed salary: SGD 30,000+, OR
Outstanding achievements in arts, sports, science, or academia
Validity:
5 years
Renewable
Benefits:
Flexibility to start your own company or work with multiple employers
Ability to bring family members
Fast-track to PR
2.7 Training Employment Pass
Who is it for?
Foreign professionals undergoing short-term training in Singapore.
Key Requirements:
Monthly stipend of SGD 3,000 or more
Structured training or internship program
Validity:
Up to 3 months
Non-renewable
2.8 Miscellaneous Work Pass
Who is it for?
Short-term assignments such as:
Foreign religious workers
Public speakers
Journalists
Conference participants
Validity:
Up to 60 days
Not renewable
3. Which Singapore Work Visa is Right for You?
At Globexa Immigration, we help you evaluate the best path based on:
Your professional background
Industry of employment
Salary level
Long-term goals (PR, family migration, etc.)
4. Step-by-Step: How to Apply for a Singapore Work Visa (2025)
Whether you’re applying for an Employment Pass, S Pass, or EntrePass, the application process typically involves the following steps:
1. Employer or Agent Applies
In most cases, the employer or an authorized visa consultant like Globexa Immigration must submit the application via Singapore’s MOM (Ministry of Manpower) online portal.
2. Submit Required Documents
Supporting documents vary by visa type but usually include:
Job offer letter or contract
Passport bio-data page
Educational qualifications (diplomas, degrees, transcripts)
Employment history or resume
Company’s business profile (for EntrePass)
3. Wait for Outcome
Visa decisions typically take:
1–3 weeks for Employment Pass/S Pass
6–8 weeks for EntrePass/PEP/ONE Pass
4. Receive IPA Letter
If approved, you’ll receive an In-Principle Approval (IPA) letter, allowing you to travel to Singapore and get your visa issued.
5. Visit Singapore & Complete Formalities
You’ll undergo fingerprinting, photo capture, and receive your official Work Pass Card.
5. Work Visa Document Checklist (Singapore 2025)
Here’s a general list of documents required, which Globexa Immigration will help you collect and prepare:
| Document Type | Required For | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Passport Copy | All Visas | Must be valid for at least 6 months |
| Job Offer Letter | EP, S Pass, PEP | Must include salary and job role |
| Academic Certificates | EP, EntrePass | Must be in English or translated |
| CV or Resume | EP, ONE Pass | Detailed work history |
| Company Profile | EntrePass | ACRA registration, business plan |
| Recent Photograph | All | Passport-sized, white background |
| Salary Slips | PEP, ONE Pass | Required for salary validation |
Let us handle all verifications and translations!
6. Why Choose Globexa Immigration?
As the Best Immigration Consultant in Haryana, we provide full support for your Singapore visa journey.
Our Services Include:
Free eligibility check
Personalized visa consultation
Document collection & verification
Application filing with MOM
Ongoing support until approval
Trusted by 1000+ clients in Panipat and beyond!
2 Replies to “Types of Work Visas in Singapore: A Complete Guide”
I just couldn’t leave your website prior to suggesting that I
extremely loved the standard information a person supply for your visitors?
Is going to be again ceaselessly in order to check out new posts
Thank you so much for your kind words! 😊
I’m truly grateful for your support and happy to know you found the information valuable. Your encouragement means a lot, and I look forward to sharing more helpful content. Can’t wait to have you visit again!