PEP ( personalised employment pass) is the one kind of work visa that Singapore offers to its most accomplished foreign professionals. The apparent difference between the regular employment pass is that PEP is fairly flexible. Therefore, a working professional is allowed to switch between other jobs without reapplying for this pass. Basically, this visa opens new avenues for careers and promotes a less burdensome process of working in Singapore among many foreign talents.
What is PEP?
It is a work visa in the form of a special pass for highly paid foreign professionals who want to work in Singapore. It is a unique pass, as it will not be tied to any particular employer. PEP holders are free to change jobs without having to reapply for another pass. It therefore follows that this makes it one of the most desirable options for foreign professionals looking at expanding their career within Singapore.
PEP vs. Other Employment Passes
It does not bind professionals to any single employer, unlike the EP. As long as a professional has the minimum eligibility requirements, he or she can change jobs. Also, with a PEP, holder could stay up to six months in Singapore without a job, which is not possible under the EP.
Eligibility Criteria for PEP Singapore
An applicant must fulfill the requirements set for the PEP by Singapore’s Ministry of Manpower. The basic qualifications are as follows:
- You can apply for PEP if you are earning a fixed monthly salaryof at least $22,500.
- You have to work continuously in Singapore. If you are unemployed for more than 6 months at any point, you will need to cancel your pass.
- Earn a fixed salary of at least $270,000 per calendar year, regardless of the number of months you are in employment.
- If you applied for your PEP before 1 September 2023, you must earn a fixed salary of $144,000 per calendar year, regardless of the number of months you are in employment.
Application Process
Application for PEP is relatively easy but with attention to the following details:
Prepare necessary documents: you must make sure to update the latest resume, employment records, and proof of salary.
PEP Application Submission: Submit your application through the online system of MOM.
Approval: It usually takes time to process in about 8 weeks in Singapore.
Common Mistakes to Avoid: Make sure to check all the information which may be related to declaring the wrong salary or not submitting complete documents.
Benefits of Holding a personalised employment pass
Flexibility, and job mobility are the distinguishing advantages that allow foreign professionals to seek work and continue living in Singapore.
Change in Employment: There is freedom for a change in employer without having to reapply for a new work pass.
Changing Jobs: PEP holders can continue staying in Singapore between jobs for up to six months, which gives ample time for job searching”.
Better avenues of career: Since the industry and employer are free, career options are generally wider.
PEP Validity and Reapplication
It is valid for three years and you cannot renew it. In this period, the holders must continue to have PEP status by fulfilling the salary criteria and to remain employed for a minimum of six months during the validity of the visa. Failure to follow the rules may lead to revocation of application.
Additionally, PEP holders are obliged to keep MOM updated for any variation in employment status or personal particulars during their stay in Singapore.
Conclusion
A PEP is also especially good for foreign professionals who want job flexibility and greater career mobility in Singapore. The fact that holders can switch employers and stay in Singapore while between jobs, help alot in furthering professional journey. Besides, for the rest who do not fall under the ineligibility criteria, it is definitely worth giving a try for PEP.
How FastLane HR Can Help
The application for a PEP is rather cumbersome; trust FastLane HR to help you with this. From ensuring completeness of documents to advising on the eligibility criteria, FastLane HR can assist you comprehensively. Let us guide you toward the next step in your career with full confidence.