This article was originally published on March 9, 2022, and was updated on December 12, 2022, and March 8, 2023, to reflect new information.
March 8, 2023, Update: The government of Singapore published further information regarding the Complementary Assessment Framework (COMPASS) that will go into effect on September 1, 2023. According to the latest announcement, the COMPASS will apply to the following individuals:
- New applications submitted from September 1, 2023
- Renewal applications submitted from September 1, 2023
Beginning September 1, 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 September 1, 2024. For further information on the document requirements based on the foreign national’s country of residence, check here.
December 12, 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
Original Post From March 9, 2022:
Key Points
- Introduction of a new points-based evaluation framework for granting employment passes
- Increased minimum monthly salary requirements for employment pass holders beginning September 1, 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 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 Singapore’s skills shortages and labor market factors.
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 rise 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 starting September 2024. Continue to check the government of Singapore’s website for the latest updates and information.
Written by: Jessie Butchley, Global Immigration Writer, Envoy Global
Source: Ministry of Manpower, Singapore
