S Pass and key factors to a successful application
What is an S Pass?
An S Pass issued by the Ministry of Manpower is a common visa for mid-level skilled staff (e.g. technicians) wanting to settle in this bustling city.
After a job is secured, the employer will apply for an S Pass on behalf of their future employee.
S Pass applicants are not allowed to be a director and/or shareholder of any ACRA registered companies.
Key factors to a successful S Pass application
Take the Self Assessment Tool (SAT)
You can take a Self Assessment Tool Test (SAT) provided by the Ministry of Manpower (MOM) for your employee. This test will help you understand the requirements needed for a successful application and also let you know if he/she is qualified for an S Pass in Singapore.
Review the fixed monthly salary
Salary plays a huge role in your application being successful. The employee is required to have a fixed monthly salary of SGD $3,600*/$4,000** and above.
*(increases progressively with age from age 23, up to $5,100 at age 45 and above), for companies in the non-financial services sector.
**(increases progressively with age from age 23, up to $5,650 at age 45 and above), for companies in the financial services sector.
Ensure the employee has the appropriate qualification or employment history
Bachelor’s degree and diploma holders are beneficial for those applying for an S pass. Technical certificates can be considered as well.
If the employee does not have a degree/diploma, it can be compensated with an excellent employment history and high salary.
Know the company’s current quota of foreign workers
The number of S Pass holders a company can hire is limited by a quota.
Under the quota, the number of S Pass holders a company can hire is capped at –
- 10% of the company’s total workforce in the services sector
- 15% in all other sectors
You can calculate your quota requirement for the S Pass here.
Prepare for the S Pass levy
The S Pass levy is a pricing mechanism that works to regulate the number of foreign workers in Singapore. Business owners need to pay the levy for all S Pass holders in their company.
You can find the levy rate for S Pass here.
Arrange medical insurance
Before you can issue an S Pass, you must buy medical insurance for the pass holder. The insurance coverage must be a minimum of $15,000 per year and cover inpatient care and day surgery.
You can have a co-pay arrangement with the S Pass holder if certain requirements are met, and after purchase, you would then need to submit the medical insurance details online before you request to issue an S Pass.
