[Visa] 2026 Guide to Singapore EP Salary Requirements

At a Glance

From January 2026, the minimum salary for EP renewals will be SGD 5,600.

The financial sector requires a higher minimum of SGD 6,200.

Must secure 40 COMPASS points and meet age-based salary benchmarks.

Living in Singapore, visa renewal is often the most stressful time for expatriates. For families settled here for their children's education or housing, changes to Employment Pass (EP) criteria are critical survival issues. Following the 2025 updates for new applicants, these stricter rules will apply to existing pass holders for renewals starting January 1, 2026. To avoid any last-minute surprises, here is a breakdown of the key 2026 EP changes.

2026: Higher Thresholds for Visa Renewals

The Singapore government continues to raise the EP threshold to protect local employment and attract high-skilled talent. The criteria that applied to new applicants from January 1, 2025, will extend to all renewals starting January 1, 2026.

Minimum Salary (General Sector): Increasing from SGD 5,000 to SGD 5,600.
Minimum Salary (Financial Sector): A higher benchmark of SGD 6,200 applies due to industry standards.
Exemption for High Earners: Those with a fixed monthly salary of SGD 22,500 or more are exempt from the COMPASS points assessment.

Age-Based Salary Benchmarks: What You Need to Know

A key feature of the Singapore EP is that the minimum salary requirement increases with age. The benchmark for a young professional in their 20s differs significantly from a veteran in their 40s. You must ensure your salary matches the bracket for your age.

Age	General Sector Renewal (Monthly)	Financial Sector Renewal (Monthly)
23 & below	SGD 5,600 (approx. ₩6.37M)	SGD 6,200 (approx. ₩7.06M)
30	SGD 7,223 (approx. ₩8.22M)	SGD 7,982 (approx. ₩9.08M)
35	SGD 8,382 (approx. ₩9.54M)	SGD 9,255 (approx. ₩10.53M)
40	SGD 9,541 (approx. ₩10.86M)	SGD 10,527 (approx. ₩11.98M)
45 & above	SGD 10,700 (approx. ₩12.18M)	SGD 11,800 (approx. ₩13.43M)

As shown above, those in their mid-40s and older must earn over SGD 10,000 to maintain their EP. This is a crucial figure to keep in mind during salary negotiations.

Understanding the COMPASS Points System

Meeting the salary requirement is only half the battle. You must also score at least 40 points under the COMPASS (Complementarity Assessment Framework) system, which evaluates both individual attributes and company diversity.

C1 (Salary): 0–20 points based on how your salary compares to industry norms.
C2 (Qualifications): 20 points for degrees from MOM-recognized top-tier universities; 10 points for degree-equivalent qualifications. (List to be updated in Jan 2026).
C3 (Diversity): Up to 20 points if your nationality makes up a small percentage of the company's PMET staff.
C4 (Support for Local Employment): Up to 20 points if the company hires a high percentage of local PMETs compared to the industry average.
Bonus Criteria: Extra points for Shortage Occupation List (C5) or Strategic Economic Priorities (C6).

Practical Strategies for Residents

Visa renewal is more than just paperwork; it is the process of securing your life in Singapore. Here is some practical advice for those facing renewals in 2026:

Use the SAT (Self-Assessment Tool): The official MOM website tool is the most accurate resource. Run a check at least 6 months before your renewal date to identify any point gaps.
Note the DP (Dependant’s Pass) Threshold: While the EP minimum is SGD 5,600, you must earn at least SGD 6,000 to sponsor family members (DP). Don't let your family's visas be at risk by only meeting the individual EP minimum.
Prepare Educational Verifications: Graduates from overseas universities may need third-party verification from MOM-approved agencies. Prepare these documents in advance.
Watch for the 'Age Trap': If you are transitioning from your late 30s to 40s, the steep jump in salary requirements due to age weighting can be tricky. Discuss this with your employer early to ensure your salary increments keep pace with visa requirements.

While visa regulations can change, the 2026 renewal criteria are already set. Preparation is the only way to ensure a stable and secure life in Singapore. Make sure to note these figures for your next renewal!