As the global economic landscape changes, Singapore, as an important business and financial center in Asia, continues to optimize its talent admission policies. 2026 Singapore Employment Pass (EP) is about to usher in a number of key adjustments, which will not only affect the application strategies of foreign professionals, but also put forward new requirements for enterprises' human resource planning. In this article, we will systematically sort out the three core changes of the new EP policy in 2026, and explain in detail the application process for both Employment Pass and Self-employment Pass, to help you plan ahead for a smooth passage.

I. Interpretation of the three core changes in the Singapore EP 2026

1. Salary thresholds raised across the board, age and industry differentiation requirements more significant

From January 1, 2026, Singapore's Ministry of Manpower (MOM) will officially implement the new EP Minimum Qualifying Salary (MQS):

• Non-financial industriesMinimum monthly salary increased from S$5,000 toS$5,600
• Finance and high-paying jobsIncrease from S$5,500 toS$6,200

Notably, the new policy introduces finer age segmentation requirements. For example, applicants aged 45 and above are required to attain about S$10,700 in the non-financial sector and higher in the financial sector. This means that companies will have to consider multiple factors such as the applicant's age, industry and experience when designing salary packages.

In the face of ever-changing salary thresholds, how can companies ensure that their compensation packages are both policy-compliant and market-competitive? Our team of professional consultants can provide you with tailor-made salary structure design services, incorporating the latest Singapore policies and industry standards, to help your EP application pass successfully.Tel: 16620947137, WeChat: Qicaiyingjituan.

2. Optimization of the COMPASS assessment framework: weakening the "higher pay first" tendency

Since its launch in 2023, the Complementary Expertise Assessment Framework (COMPASS) has become the core mechanism for EP vetting. the 2026 update further emphasizes the overall match of talent rather than relying on a single indicator of high salary.

The four COMPASS scoring cores include:

• Salary Comparison Local PMET Benchmark
• Recognition of education and qualifications
• Team Diversity
• Company support for local employment

Updated.Academic backgroundrespond in singingCompany's contribution to the development of local talentbecome a more important plus point. This means that applicants need to demonstrate their value more fully, and companies need to incorporate support programs for the local job market into their talent acquisition strategies.

COMPASS scoring involves many factors, how to prepare to maximize the score? Enterprise Finance Group provides professional EP application pre-assessment services, helps you identify your strengths and weaknesses through simulated scoring, and provides targeted enhancement programs. We also provide cross-border tax planning services to ensure that your financial arrangements are compliant and efficient, you can scan the code to add customer service WeChat:

3. Expansion of the Scarce Occupations List (SOL) to 30 positions

MOM's updated Shortage Occupation List (SOL) covers 30 occupations in seven key industry sectors, including:

• Information and communications technology
• semiconductor industry
• Green economy and energy
• Financial services and risk management
• Healthcare and Life Sciences
• agricultural science and technology
• Maritime and Shipping

Positions that meet the SOL list can receive additional points on the COMPASS score, and some science and technology positions can even apply for EPs that are valid for up to five years.This change provides easier access for highly skilled individuals in specific fields.

Two types of application paths for EPs in Singapore: Employment EPs and Self-employment EPs

1、Employment EP application full guide

Employment EP is applicable to foreign professionals employed by local companies in Singapore. a salary threshold of S$5,600 (S$6,200 for finance) has been applied from January 2025 for new applicants and from 2026 for existing EP renewals.

Application Requirements:

• Valid job offer from a Singaporean employer is required.
• Bachelor's degree or higher usually required
• Satisfy a COMPASS score of at least 40
• Salary needs to meet minimum standards for the corresponding age and industry

Application Process:

1. Employers submit applications online through CorpPass accounts
2. MOM review of materials (usually 3-8 weeks)
3. Receive an electronic copy of the permit upon approval

Employment EP application materials are complex, how to ensure a one-time pass? Enterprise Caiying Group provides full-process agency services from material preparation to submission. Our team is familiar with the latest requirements of MOM, and can efficiently deal with tedious aspects such as academic certification and document translation, which significantly increase the probability of approval. If you need to handle, you can scan the code to add customer service WeChat.

2、Self-employed EP application in-depth analysis

A self-employed EP is still essentially a standard EP, but the applicant applies for himself as a shareholder or director of the company. This approach is suitable for entrepreneurs who are interested in starting or expanding their business in Singapore.

Core requirements:

• The company must be a private limited company with genuine operations
• Must employ at least 1 Singapore Citizen or PR with CPF contributions
• Applicants must earn a monthly salary of S$5,600 (higher for financial services).
• A detailed business plan is required
• Passed COMPASS assessment (exempted if monthly salary ≥ S$22,500)

Key Steps in the Application Process:

1. Incorporation and physical operation of a Singapore private limited company
2. Recruitment of local staff and commencement of CPF payments
3. Prepare complete personal, company and business references
4. Submitting an EP request through CorpPass, Inc.

Self-employed EP has stringent requirements on the real operation of the company, how to set up a compliant company structure quickly? Enterprise Cai Ying Group provides one-stop services such as Singapore company registration, office leasing, local staff recruitment and CPF contributions to help you efficiently fulfill all the pre-requisites for self-employment EP. For more information, please scan the code to add customer service on WeChat.

III. Post Maintenance of EP and Permanent Resident (PR) Conversion

1. New rules for EP renewal

As of September 1, 2024, all EP renewal applications must also be assessed and score 40 points on the COMPASS framework. Renewals will no longer rely solely on the operational status of the company, but rather on a comprehensive assessment of both the individual and the company.

2. Key Factors in EP to PR

EP is one of the main channels to apply for PR in Singapore. Based on 2025 data, the success rate of PR application for EP holders who have completed 2 years is around 40%-50%.Key factors to enhance the success rate include:

• pay level: Significantly higher success rate with monthly salary ≥ S$10,000
• Duration of residence: It is recommended to work for at least 2-3 years before applying
• family ties: Having a Singapore Citizen or PR spouse can improve the success rate.
• social contribution: Good tax records and community involvement have a positive effect

The transition from EP to PR requires long-term planning and continuous maintenance. ECCY Group provides a full cycle of Singapore identity application and renewal services, including PR application strategy consulting, material preparation and follow-up maintenance, as well as cross-border tax planning and compliance and risk control programs, to protect your overseas development. For more information, please visit our Customer Service Center.

Conclusion: planning ahead for change

The changes in Singapore's EP policy in 2026 reflect the country's increased focus on talent quality, industry demand and contribution to the local job market while attracting global talent. Whether it is the upward adjustment of salary threshold, optimization of COMPASS assessment, or the expansion of the SOL list, applicants and companies are required to make adequate preparations in advance.

In the face of these changes, professional advice and services are particularly important. As a professional organization providing a full chain of corporate services, Enterprise Caiying Group has rich experience in domestic and international company registration, cross-border tax planning, equity structure design and other areas, which can provide you with all-round support for your road to expansion in Singapore.

Need to apply for EP, company registration or identity planning in Singapore? Feel free to contact Enterprise Cai Ying Group:

• Tel: 16620947137
• WeChat: Qicaiyingjituan (can be added by direct search)
• Scope of services: Singapore EP application, Hong Kong identity application and renewal, overseas company registration, cross-border tax planning, etc.