Last Updated on March 7, 2023
This article was originally published on 9 March 2022 and was updated on 12 December 2022 and 3 March 2023 to reflect new information.
3 March 2023 Update: The government of Singapore published further information regarding the Complementary Assessment Framework (COMPASS) that will go into effect on 1 September 2023. According to the latest announcement, the COMPASS will apply to the following individuals:
- New applications submitted from 1 September 2023
- Renewal applications submitted from 1 September 2024
Beginning 1 September 2023, employers will be required to provide proof of a third-party verification document for all post-secondary diplomas and above when applying for a new Employment Permit (EP). These same measures will also apply to renewal applications submitted from 1 September 2024. For further information on the document requirements based on the foreign national’s country of residence, check here.
This article was originally published on 9 March 2022 and was updated on 12 December 2022 to reflect new information.
12 December 2022 Update: The government of Singapore released additional details concerning the points-based Complementarity Assessment Framework (COMPASS) that will go into effect in September 2023. Most recently, the government has launched the myMom Portal, which can be used for benchmarking insights, including:
- Information on a company’s profile
- Salary insights and benefits
- Data collected by the Ministry of Manpower
Key Points
- Introduction of new points-based evaluation framework for granting employment passes
- Increased minimum monthly salary requirements for employment pass holders beginning 1 Sept. 2022
Overview
The government of Singapore introduced a new points-based evaluation framework known as the Complementarity Assessment Framework (COMPASS). Under COMPASS, Employment Pass (EP) applicants will need to score at least 40 points for the EP to be granted.
Four factors of criteria will go into the calculation, including the salary level and qualifications of the applicant, the nationality of the applicant and support for local employment by the employer. Additional points can also be assigned depending on skills shortages and labor market factors in Singapore.
For additional information on the required criteria, click here.
The government will also increase the minimum monthly salary for EP holders to SGD $5,000. Employment pass holders in the financial sector will increase to SGD $5,500.
What are the Changes?
The government of Singapore introduced a new framework for granting employment passes. According to the government, COMPASS will enable employers to select highly skilled foreign national professionals while improving workforce diversity in Singapore.
Looking Ahead
COMPASS will be used for new EP applications beginning in September 2023. It will also be used for EP renewals beginning September 2024. Continue to check the government of Singapore’s website and Envoy’s website for the latest updates and information.
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Content in this publication is for informational purposes only and not intended as legal advice, nor should it be relied on as such. For additional information on the issues discussed, consult an attorney at one of the two U.S. Law Firms working with the Envoy Platform or another qualified professional. On non-U.S. immigration issues, consult an Envoy global immigration service provider or another qualified representative.