Difference between Work Permit, EP and SP

Are you a Work Permit that is looking to upgrade yourself? But find yourself questioning the difference between a Work Permit, Skilled Pass (SP) and an Employment Pass (EP)?

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Well, in short, the E-Pass and the S-Pass are two separate work passes meant for professionals with high-level qualifications and technicians with mid-level skills.

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On the other hand, the Work Permits are unskilled workers with a lower-level of skills-set, working in labourers industries. As much as the E-Pass and S-Pass are also named “Work Permit”, they are different visas. With very few features in common and a drastic difference in salary and benefits between the 3 work passes, it might open your mind to take action and upgrade in this instance if you are still holding a Work Permit.

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But before we do so, let us go through main difference between these passes:

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Work Permit

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Lowly or semi-skilled foreign workers are categorised to be Work Permits Holders. Most of them work in sectors that are labour intensive–construction, service or shipyard and manufacturing industries. Yet only workers from a pre-approved list of countries are eligible for this pass with no minimum qualifying salary. Family dependents will also not be allowed to be applied under the Work Permit Pass while the validity of the work pass is eligible for two (2) years, subject to renewal based on the worker’s age.

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However, the main disadvantage of a Work Permit is that every sector has a different set of quotas applicable for your employer to adhere to. From 1 September 2023, employers can employ migrant workers from Non-Traditional Sources (NTS) for a restricted set of occupations in the NTS Occupation List. With the new policy launched, a potentially large amount of migrant workers will compete for the limited job opportunities, which might be a potential threat to your current job.

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Skill-Pass (SP)

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The S-Pass is for foreigners of any nationality with mid-level skills. But unlike the Work Permits, one essential criterion of getting an S-Pass involves having the necessary qualifications and experience. The detailed requirements needed are listed below:

• Has a job with a minimum salary of $3150 (as of Sept 2023)
• Possess a degree, diploma or a specialised technical certificate
• Have relevant experience in a sector

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Just like the Work Permit holders, the S-Pass Holders has a 10% quota capped on your total workforce in the service sector and reduced to 15% in 2023. Likewise, a monthly levy and medical insurance are mandatory for your employee with a validity of two (2) years. However, dependents will be allowed to tap on the pass to reside in Singapore.

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If you are a work permit holder and are keen on upgrading your work pass, you might want to consider enrolling yourself on some course. Not only will it equip you with better skills and knowledge, with a recognised educational certificate in Singapore, you could also potentially get an upgrade.

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Update Sept 2023: From September 2023 onwards, the new minimum qualifying salary for Newer S-Pass applicants has been raised to a higher salary threshold of $3150 to ensure fair employment towards both the locals and foreign employees. This is noted that the qualifying salary will be progressively raised again in 2025.

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Employment-Pass (EP)

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Down to the E-Pass! Most of the E-Pass foreign professionals are equipped with highly skilled expertise and hold a position as Specialise Executives, Managers or even Directors. Since 1 September 2023, EP candidates must pass a two-stage eligibility framework. In addition to meeting the qualifying salary (Stage 1), EP candidates must pass a points-based Complementarity Assessment Framework (COMPASS) (Stage 2) by earning at least 40 points. COMPASS enables employers to select high-quality foreign professionals, while improving workforce diversity and building a strong Singaporean core.

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Good thing, like the S-Pass, dependents will be allowed to tap on the pass to reside in Singapore for up to two (2) years till the pass requires renewal again. With the above information, all you need to do as a Work Permit Holder is to upskill yourself for opportunities to come knocking your way.

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Final thoughts

While we agree that a successful S or Employment application is hard to come by with the tightened restrictions, that doesn’t mean you shouldn’t try – there is a way around to upgrade it as long as you read this blog carefully! Share it around with your friends and family who might be interested in the same topic. Who knows, you might be the next SP and EP residing in Singapore! Psst, did we also mention? Getting an upgrade is your first step to getting a PR in Singapore! Act fast and act now!

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Updated as of 2024: Please note that all information is true at the time of publication and serves as general information and use only. The information provided is based on our extensive research which might differ from the time of your application. Kenneth & Co. disclaims any liabilities from your decision based on this site. To find out the latest updates and relevancy, do contact our professional consultants for more information or check the relevant sites (MOM) (ICA) for more updated information before proceeding.

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Disclaimer: All information is true as of time of publish in Jan 2024, information and data may change beyond this date. For most updated information, always refer to relevant site before making decisions. Kenneth & Co disclaims any liability for any harm caused by using the information provided.

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