If you’re looking forward to working in Singapore, you should be well-informed about the types of work passes available to Indians. Singapore is one of the favorite destinations for Indian professionals who seek better job opportunities. Its thriving economy, high standard of living, and excellent job prospects make it an ideal place for career growth. The Singapore government has also set up several types of work passes for foreigners, Indians included, to work here legally.
These work passes attract skilled workers, professionals, and other talents worldwide to contribute to Singapore’s diverse economy. Whether a skilled worker, professional, or entrepreneur, there is a work pass for nearly every type of employee. In this blog, we will explore the various types of work passes available in Singapore and how you can apply for them.
8 Types of Work Passes
1. Employment Pass (EP)
The Employment Pass is one of the most popular types of work passes in Singapore, especially for professionals. Employment Pass If you are an Indian citizen who has a job in Singapore and holds a recognized degree, diploma, or professional qualifications, you would be eligible for Employment Pass. Employment Pass is granted subject to minimum salary which is periodically revised by the Singapore government.
The Employment Pass permits you to live and work in Singapore for a period of up to two years, depending on the conditions. Further renewal is also possible through this pass. This EP is primarily suited for people who are either in manager or executive levels or also specialized in various fields of work. This is amongst the most sought after works passed by Indians in quest of employment in Singapore.
2. S Pass
Another popular choice for Indians holding mid-skilled qualifications is the S Pass. The work pass is available to foreign workers with technical or specialized work but who are not eligible for the Employment Pass, having relevant qualifications. For one to be able to apply for an S Pass, one has to have a job in Singapore and also meet the minimum salary requirements.
The S Pass has allowed a person to stay in Singapore for a duration of up to two years and is renewable. Applications by Indian professionals seeking this pass need to have the minimum educational qualifications as well as work experience requirements. Among the work passes is the S Pass meant for bringing skilled workers to Singapore from outside.
3. EntrePass
EntrePass is best for Indian entrepreneurs who want to start and run a business in Singapore. The EntrePass is aimed at foreign nationals, such as Indians, who have an idea of starting a business which is in Singapore’s innovation and growth sectors. To qualify for this pass, your business must be in one of the sectors identified by Singapore’s government as high-growth industries, such as technology, healthcare, or research.
You will also need to prove that you have a viable business plan. The EntrePass is a unique work pass for entrepreneurs, offering them the opportunity to live and work in Singapore while contributing to its economy.
4. Personalised Employment Pass (PEP)
Another work pass in Singapore that can be availed of by high-earning foreign professionals, including Indians, is the Personalised Employment Pass. Different from other work passes, PEP is not attached to a specific employer so you can change employers without any effect on your pass.
To qualify for the PEP, you must have a valid Employment Pass or have been employed in a managerial, executive, or specialized role for at least 6 months in Singapore. The PEP is designed to attract talented professionals to Singapore, offering greater flexibility and career opportunities. With the PEP, Indian professionals can enjoy a longer stay in Singapore compared to other work passes.
5. Work Permit
The Work Permit is for lower-skilled workers from India and other foreign countries who work in specific sectors like construction, manufacturing, and marine industries. This pass permits foreign workers to come into Singapore for work but carries more restrictions than other work passes. The eligibility criteria for a Work Permit are based on lower minimum salary limits, because the work performed is usually manual or requires other expertise.
The Work Permit has a short period of validity and can be renewed when the worker demonstrates satisfactory performance and the employer requires their services. One of the most common forms of work passes for Indian blue-collar workers is this pass.
6. Dependant Pass
If you are an Indian professional working in Singapore and have family members who wish to join you, they can apply for a Dependent Pass. A Dependent Pass is one of the types of work passes that allow dependents of Employment Pass, S Pass, or other eligible work pass holders to live in Singapore.
However, a Dependent Pass does not automatically confer the right to work in Singapore. If your dependents wish to work, they must apply for a separate work pass. This pass is ideal for Indians who want to bring their families to Singapore while working.
7. Training Employment Pass (TEP)
The Training Employment Pass is issued for foreign nationals, including Indians, that come to Singapore to receive training. This pass is particularly suitable for fresh graduates or individuals working on training assignments. A recognized degree or diploma from a qualified academic institution will qualify you to receive a TEP provided you satisfy the minimum salary requirements set by the law.
Your TEP can last as long as your training program up to one year. It is one of the types of work passes that focuses on professional development and skill enhancement in Singapore.
8. Consolidated Work Pass (CWP)
The Consolidated Work Pass is another lesser-known work pass in Singapore. It is intended for professionals working in specific sectors, like public services or government-related roles. This pass is usually given to Indian nationals with highly specialized skills filling key roles in Singapore’s public sector or government organizations. Being one of the specialized types of work passes, CWP has applicants meeting strict criteria and qualifications.
Singapore provides a plethora of work passes for Indians to work, live, and prosper in this cosmopolitan city-state. Ranging from highly skilled professionals to entrepreneurs and lower-skilled workers, there is a work pass for all. Be it an Employment Pass, S Pass, or EntrePass, it is necessary to understand the specific requirements and eligibility criteria for each type.
Knowing the different types of work passes helps you in making the most appropriate choice to suit your qualification and career goals. Regardless of which type of work pass you apply for, working in Singapore is a rewarding experience that gives excellent opportunities for career advancement, personal growth, and cultural enrichment.
