Who applies and what the pass covers
The S Pass is for foreign skilled workers who meet MOM’s eligibility criteria, including Associate Professionals and Technicians. The employer or an appointed employment agent applies on the candidate’s behalf. A change of employer requires the new employer to apply for a new pass. Eligible family members may qualify for family passes, and the holder may have Singapore income-tax obligations.
Salary and duration
The qualifying fixed monthly salary is benchmarked against the top third of local APT salaries. The overview states a current minimum of S$3,300, increasing with age to S$4,800 for candidates in their mid-40s; financial services has higher thresholds. The youngest-age minimum rises to S$3,600 for new applications from 1 January 2027 and renewals of passes expiring from 1 January 2028. Consult the detailed eligibility page for the candidate’s exact age and sector. A first pass can last up to two years and a renewal up to three years. Its validity is also limited to one month before the passport expires.
Employer obligations: quota, insurance and primary care
Employers are subject to an S Pass quota and levy and must provide medical insurance. A Primary Care Plan is additionally required for workers who live in dormitories accommodating seven or more workers, or who work in the construction, marine shipyard or process sectors. Purchase it after receiving the in-principle approval or renewal letter and declare the purchase through myMOM Portal before issuance or renewal.
Before application and arrival
Advertise on MyCareersFuture and consider candidates fairly, check eligibility, quota and levy, and prepare the required documents. A first-time employer must declare its business activity. Apply and wait for the outcome; if approved, obtain the in-principle approval. Buy the Primary Care Plan where required and ensure the candidate meets the travel requirements before arrival.
After arrival and during employment
Buy medical insurance and submit its details online, then have the pass issued. The notification letter states whether fingerprints and a photograph must be registered; book an appointment when required. MOM’s overview states that the card is delivered to the nominated address four working days after registration or document verification. Keep company and holder details up to date, renew before expiry, replace a lost, stolen or damaged card, and cancel the pass when the holder stops working for the employer. The later detailed application page, updated on 28 August 2026, states five working days for card delivery; use its current transaction instructions and delivery updates.
Official source
Written independently from official MOM source material.