🇸🇬Work visa options in Singapore
3 visa pathways available for international workers.
Why work in Singapore
Singapore is Asia's leading financial and technology hub and one of the most efficient places in the world to relocate for work. The Employment Pass is the main route for professionals, with a minimum qualifying salary of around S$5,600 a month and the COMPASS points framework assessing factors such as qualifications and employer diversity. Income tax is low - between 0 and 24 percent - English is an official language, and the city-state is famously safe, clean and well-connected. Permanent residency is possible after roughly two years on an Employment Pass, making Singapore attractive for ambitious professionals in finance, tech and biomedical sciences.
Who this is best for
- ✓Finance, banking and fintech professionals
- ✓Technology and software specialists
- ✓Biomedical sciences and research talent
- ✓Logistics and supply-chain managers
- ✓Professionals seeking low tax and an English-speaking base
All visa types
Employment Pass
The Employment Pass (EP) is Singapore's primary work visa for foreign professionals. The minimum salary is S$5,600 per month (S$6,200 for the financial services sector), but the threshold increases with age — up to approximately S$10,500 for applicants aged 45 and above. Since September 2023, all EP applications must also pass the COMPASS scoring framework, which awards points for salary relative to local benchmarks, qualifications, workforce diversity, and firm-level support for local hiring. You need a minimum of 40 COMPASS points.
S Pass
The S Pass is Singapore's visa for mid-level skilled workers who meet the qualifications but not the salary threshold for an Employment Pass. The minimum salary is S$3,300 per month (S$3,800 for financial services), with higher thresholds for older candidates. You need at least a diploma or technical certification, along with relevant work experience.
Overseas Networks & Expertise Pass
ONE Pass
The Overseas Networks & Expertise Pass (ONE Pass) is Singapore's most exclusive work visa, designed for top global talent. You need to earn at least S$30,000 per month (S$360,000 per year) or demonstrate outstanding achievements in arts, sports, academia, or research. The 5-year validity and freedom from COMPASS requirements make it the most flexible work visa Singapore offers.
Salary thresholds comparison
Working and living in Singapore
Key industries hiring
Singapore hires internationally across financial services, technology, biomedical sciences and pharmaceuticals, logistics, and professional services. It serves as the Asia-Pacific headquarters for a large share of global multinationals.
Cost of living and quality of life
Housing is the main expense - a one-bedroom apartment costs S$3,000-5,000 a month - but personal income tax is low and the city offers outstanding public transport, healthcare and safety. The compact city-state is highly walkable and exceptionally well-connected to the rest of Asia.
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Frequently asked questions
What are the work visa options in Singapore?
Singapore offers 3 visa types: Employment Pass, S Pass, Overseas Networks & Expertise Pass.
What is the minimum salary for a work visa in Singapore?
The lowest threshold is S$39,600/yr for the S Pass. Some visa types have no minimum salary requirement.
How long does it take to get a work visa in Singapore?
Processing times start from 2 weeks for the fastest visa type.
Can I get permanent residency in Singapore through a work visa?
Yes, several visa types in Singapore offer pathways to permanent residency.
What is the COMPASS framework?
COMPASS is a points system for Employment Pass applications that scores factors such as salary, qualifications, and the diversity and local-hiring record of the employer. Applicants must meet both the salary threshold and the points bar.
How much income tax will I pay in Singapore?
Singapore's personal income tax is progressive and low by global standards, ranging from 0 percent to a top rate of 24 percent. There is no capital gains tax, which is a major draw for high earners.
Can I get permanent residency in Singapore?
Yes. Employment Pass holders can apply for permanent residency, typically after around two years of work. Approval is selective and considers your salary, skills, age and economic contribution.