🇸🇬 Singapore: Higher Salary Benchmarks for Employment Pass Holders

Clients in Singapore hiring or renewing Employment Pass (EP) holders should be aware of updated salary benchmark expectations tied to the country’s COMPASS framework.

While the minimum qualifying fixed monthly salary remains unchanged at:

• S$5,600 for most sectors, and

• S$6,200 for the financial services sector,

The expected salary benchmarks increase significantly based on the employee’s age and profile.

For mid-career professionals in their mid-40s, benchmark salaries may now range between approximately S$10,700 and S$11,800 per month, depending on the role and sector.

This means that although an employee may still meet the official minimum EP threshold, their salary may no longer be competitive enough to satisfy COMPASS-related expectations during new applications or renewals.

What clients should consider

Clients planning Employment Pass renewals between July and December 2026 are encouraged to:

• Review whether current employee salaries remain aligned with updated COMPASS benchmarks

• Assess potential salary adjustment needs ahead of renewal periods

• Plan additional processing time for the new qualification verification requirements introduced as part of the EP process

Because Singapore’s EP framework continues to place greater emphasis on salary competitiveness and workforce quality, proactive planning may help reduce delays or renewal risks later in the year.

If you have any questions regarding EP eligibility or renewal planning in Singapore, please reach out to your Customer Success Manager or our Support Team.