Compass Singapore: Your Guide to Exploring the Lion City

Are you planning to work in Singapore? If so, you may need to apply for an Employment Pass (EP), which is a work visa that allows foreign professionals to work in Singapore. To obtain an EP, you will need to meet certain eligibility requirements, including passing the Complementarity Assessment Framework (COMPASS).

A compass pointing towards the iconic skyline of Singapore, with the Marina Bay Sands and the Singapore Flyer in the background

COMPASS is a points-based system that assesses the complementarity between local and foreign professionals. It takes into account factors such as your educational qualifications, work experience, and salary. From 1 September 2023, Singapore will use a new version of COMPASS to assess EP applications for non-local employees. If you are planning to apply for an EP, it is important to understand how COMPASS works and what you can do to increase your chances of success.

Key Takeaways

To work in Singapore, you may need to apply for an Employment Pass (EP).
EP applicants are assessed using the Complementarity Assessment Framework (COMPASS), which is a points-based system that assesses the complementarity between local and foreign professionals.
From 1 September 2023, Singapore will use a new version of COMPASS to assess EP applications for non-local employees.

Understanding Employment Pass in Singapore

A table with a laptop, documents, and a passport. A Singapore flag in the background

If you are a foreigner seeking to work in Singapore, you will need to obtain an Employment Pass (EP). The EP is a work visa that allows foreign professionals, managers, and executives to work in Singapore. In this section, we will discuss the eligibility and application process for the EP, as well as renewals and fair consideration.

Eligibility and Application Process

To be eligible for an EP, you must meet certain criteria set by the Ministry of Manpower (MOM). The first criterion is the EP qualifying salary, which is benchmarked to the top 1/3 of local PMET salaries by age. As of June 2024, the EP qualifying salary is at least SGD 4,500 for applicants under 30 years old and at least SGD 5,000 for applicants aged 30 and above.

The second criterion is the Complementarity Assessment Framework (COMPASS), which is a points-based system that evaluates the applicant’s qualifications, skills, work experience, and other factors. From September 1st, 2023, EP candidates must pass a two-stage eligibility framework. Stage 1 is to meet the EP Qualifying Salary, and Stage 2 is to pass COMPASS.