Singapore EP Visa Overhaul: New Salary Rules for 45+

What is the most nerve-wracking moment of living in Singapore? For many, it is likely "visa renewal season." For parents considering settling in Singapore for their children’s education or residency, the approval of an Employment Pass (EP) is a matter of stability and survival.

Recent news from the Ministry of Manpower (MOM) regarding the hike in EP salary benchmarks for 2025–2026 has caused much concern. The key takeaway is that the required salary level jumps significantly as you get older. Today, we will take a close look at the specific figures and strategies that residents aged 45 and above must know.

At a Glance

• Starting January 2025, the minimum qualifying salary for new EP applications will rise to SGD 5,600 (approx. KRW 6.45 million).
• For those aged 45 and above in the general sector, the minimum requirement is SGD 10,700 (approx. KRW 12.33 million).
• The bar is even higher in the financial sector, requiring SGD 11,800 (approx. KRW 13.59 million) for those 45 and older.

New EP Minimum Salary Benchmarks for 2025

The Singapore government continues to raise the threshold for foreign professionals to align with the wage levels of local professionals (PMETs). The new standards, effective January 1, 2025, are quite high. Current pass holders will also need to meet these criteria for renewals starting in 2026, so early preparation is essential.

• New Applications (General Sector): Minimum SGD 5,600 (approx. KRW 6.45 million)
• New Applications (Financial Sector): Minimum SGD 6,200 (approx. KRW 7.14 million)
• Renewals for Existing Holders: New criteria apply to passes expiring from January 1, 2026

Simply exceeding these base amounts is not enough. Singapore utilizes a unique system where the required salary increases in proportion to age. This means that mid-to-late career professionals are expected to prove higher value compared to younger applicants.

Higher Thresholds for Older Applicants: What About Those 45+?

The most critical aspect to watch is the age-tiered salary requirement. MOM adjusts the required salary annually for applicants aged 23 to 45. Those aged 45 and above fall into the highest bracket and must meet the most demanding salary conditions.

As shown in the table, a professional aged 45 or older in a general firm must earn over 12 million KRW per month to maintain an EP. For those in the financial sector, the requirement becomes even more stringent at over 13.5 million KRW. Note that this is based on the "Fixed Monthly Salary," and bonuses or one-time allowances are often excluded.

The COMPASS Scoring System and Exemptions

Meeting the salary requirement is only the first step; you must also pass the second hurdle: COMPASS (Complementarity Assessment Framework). A total of 40 points is required for EP approval, based on a comprehensive evaluation of your education, the company’s diversity, and local hiring ratios.

• Mandatory Educational Verification: If you submit a degree for COMPASS points, it must be verified by a designated third-party institution (such as DataFlow).
• Exemption for High Earners: Applicants with a fixed monthly salary of at least SGD 22,500 (approx. KRW 25.92 million) are exempt from the COMPASS assessment.
• Shortage Occupation Bonus: You can receive 20 bonus points if your role falls under the Shortage Occupation List (specific technical roles lacking local talent).

With the introduction of this point system, a high salary alone no longer guarantees a visa. It is now vital to check the company's health and whether your degree is recognized by the Singapore government.

Essential Practical Tips

Since visa issues can disrupt your entire family's life, it is better to be safe than sorry. Here are a few tips for local residents:

• Use the SAT (Self-Assessment Tool): Always utilize the self-diagnostic tool on the MOM website. Your employer can use it to simulate the likelihood of visa approval based on your current profile.
• Definition of Fixed Salary: The benchmark is based on your "Fixed Monthly Salary." Variable incentives, commissions, or housing allowances are likely excluded, so ensure these are clearly defined in your contract.
• Check Renewal Timelines: If your visa expires after January 1, 2026, you should start planning your salary negotiation strategy now. If you fall short of the new criteria, your renewal could be rejected.
• Verify Education Early: The verification process for educational credentials can take longer than expected (up to 4 weeks or more). It is much less stressful to get this certified well before your visa expires.

While Singapore’s visa policies are becoming increasingly strict, there is always a way forward if you prepare with accurate information. For professionals in their mid-40s and beyond, now is the time to ensure your career and salary align with the government's latest guidelines.

References

• Ministry of Manpower (MOM) - EP Eligibility
• MOM - COMPASS Framework Details
• RSM Singapore - New EP Salary Benchmarks

Exchange rate: 1 SGD ≈ 1,152 KRW (As of February 7, 2025)