KEY HIGHLIGHTS
- Singapore will raise Employment Pass minimum salary to S$6,000 from January 2027
- New applications affected from 1 Jan 2027; renewals from 1 Jan 2028, with higher S$6,600 threshold for finance roles
- Employers and applicants should review salaries early to meet MOM eligibility rules
Singapore will increase the Employment Pass (EP) minimum salary to strengthen workforce quality and maintain fair hiring standards. The change takes effect from 2027, but early preparation is essential.
Key Dates and Salary Changes
| Category | Current Salary | New Salary | Effective Date |
|---|---|---|---|
| EP Minimum Salary | S$5,600 | S$6,000 | 1 Jan 2027 (new applications) |
| EP (Financial Sector) | S$6,200 | S$6,600 | 1 Jan 2027 |
| EP Renewals | — | S$6,000+ | 1 Jan 2028 |
| Older Candidates (45+) | Up to S$10,700 | Up to S$11,500 | 2027 onwards |
What Has Changed in the Employment Pass Rules
The Ministry of Manpower (MOM) has confirmed that the qualifying salary will rise to S$6,000 per month.
- Applies to new applications from 1 January 2027
- Applies to renewals from 1 January 2028
- Financial services roles must meet a higher S$6,600 threshold
- Salary expectations increase progressively with age
Applicants who do not meet the salary requirement will not qualify for an EP.
What Employers Need to Prepare
Companies hiring foreign professionals should adjust hiring strategies ahead of 2027.
- Budget for higher salary thresholds
- Align roles with skills-based hiring
- Ensure compliance with the COMPASS framework
The COMPASS system assesses candidates based on salary, qualifications, workforce diversity, and support for local employment.
Impact on Foreign Professionals
For job seekers targeting Singapore, the update raises entry standards.
- Entry-level roles may become more selective
- Strong qualifications and experience will be critical
- Higher salaries reflect better-quality job opportunities
Singapore remains open to foreign talent, but only for roles that justify the higher pay benchmark.
Other MOM Changes to Watch
Additional workforce policy adjustments include:
- S Pass minimum salary rising to S$3,600
- Possible work permit levy changes from 2028
- Expansion of specialised passes such as the ONE Pass for top global talent
Why This Matters
This move aligns with Singapore’s long-term labour strategy—prioritising productivity and wage growth.
Raising EP salary thresholds ensures foreign professionals are hired for high-value roles, not as cost-saving alternatives. It also protects local workforce competitiveness while maintaining Singapore’s attractiveness to global talent.
Delaying preparation could result in failed applications or hiring delays, especially closer to 2027 deadlines.
What You Should Do Now
- Review current and planned salaries against the S$6,000 threshold
- Adjust hiring timelines before January 2027
- Ensure candidates meet both salary and COMPASS criteria
FAQs
1. When will the new EP salary take effect?
For new applications, it starts on 1 January 2027. Renewals follow from 1 January 2028.
2. What is the new minimum salary?
The baseline will be S$6,000 per month, higher for financial roles.
3. Does age affect EP salary requirements?
Yes. Older candidates need higher salaries, reaching up to S$11,500.
4. Can companies still hire foreign professionals easily?
Yes, but only if they meet stricter salary and quality criteria under MOM rules.
5. What happens if the salary is below the requirement?
The EP application will be automatically rejected.
