Singapore remains one of Asia’s leading commercial centers, attracting worldwide professionals looking to take their careers up a notch in a thriving economy. Despite this, the granting process for an Employment Pass (EP) has become more complicated with the addition of the Complementarity Assessment Framework (COMPASS). From 1 September 2023, all fresh EP applications are brought under COMPASS, while renewals shall be phased in. The points-based system enables overseas professionals to top up Singapore’s workforce while keeping the hiring clear and deterministic. Whether you are looking at entering Singapore for work yourself or are looking at employing overseas talents, this guide aims at helping you understand the COMPASS EP needs, score criteria, exemptions, and application process. In addition, we shall clarify how FastLane HR’s specialist work visa assistance can aid in obtaining approval with confidence.
What is COMPASS and How it Applies to EPs?
The COMPASS system is a disciplined points-based system utilized by the Singapore Ministry of Manpower (MOM) in evaluating EP candidates.
- Stage 1: Attain the EP qualifying salary (fixed monthly remuneration threshold).
- Stage 2: Achieve at least 40 points in six criteria in the COMPASS.
This regime secures that the foreign professionals are objectively judged and the employers make a positive contribution to Singapore’s workforce. Merely satisfying the minimum salary threshold no longer suffices — the choice for your EP depends on COMPASS.
COMPASS EP Requirements: 2025 Changes
Stage 1: Qualifying Salary
- General sector: Minimum SGD 5,600/month
- Financial services: Minimum SGD 6,200/month
- Wage requirement increases with age (age-increasing candidates require more remuneration).
Absent this requirement, your EP shall automatically be rejected; thus, COMPASS shall not be considered.
COMPASS Scoring (40 points required)
Basic Requirements
1 – Salary
- Requiring contact with local experts belonging to the same profession and age group.
- Top salary percentiles (≥90th) score 20 points; mid-range (65th–90th) score 10 points.
2 – Qualifications
- First-class honors with straight distinctions require at least three A-grade AEA scores.
- Accredited, recognized qualifications are required.
3 – Diversity
It also facilitates a better integration of nationalities in the Organization.
- Students from less represented nationals may earn extra points.
4 – Regional Employment Promotion
The assessment was based on the company’s history of hiring and nurturing local PMETs professionals, managers, executives, and technicians.
Bonus Standards
bonus
5 – Skills Bonus
Shortage Occupation List (SOL)-listed jobs are awarded with bonus points.
6 – Strategic Economic Priorities Bonus
Companies that contribute to national economic priorities or innovation programs earn additional points.
To pass COMPASS, applicants need at least 40 points across these categories.
COMPASS EP Exceptions
Certain candidates are exempted from the COMPASS if they apply for certain circumstances:
A minimum monthly salary of SGD 22,500.
- One-glass approach (transferring skills from one science/industry ecosystem domain
- Short-term projects (less than 1 month)
Common Mistakes and How to Achieve Maximum COMPASS Score
Common Errors
Satisfying the qualifying salary but less than the specified required COMPASS points.
- Very often, submitting unverified.
- Lest the company aspects (diversity.
- Misunderstanding exemption rules.
How to Improve Your Score
Secure a place in the Shortage Occupation List if you are eligible.
Compare salary packages with the upper percentiles.
- HIIGHT employers’ initiatives in recruiting and upskilling Singaporeans.
- Finalize all paperwork (education confirmation, employer records).
Utilize MOM’s Self-Assessment Tool (SAT) to determine your eligibility.
- Seek professional guidance to avoid rejection delays.
COMPASS EP Tutorial: Step-by-step
- Pre-Application Preparation
- Document collection: passport, school and university certificates, employer information, job profile.
Verify qualifications with authorized background check agencies.
- Employer advertises job ad in the Fair Consideration Framework (FCF), if necessary.
- Submission to MOM
The employer submits the EP application electronically at MOM’s EP eService.
The employer covers the application fee.
- Processing & Outcome
- Standard processing time: 3–8 weeks.
MOM assesses salary levels and also scores from COMPASS.
- If approved, you shall receive an In-Principle Approval (IPA) letter.
- Appeals and Renewal
- Upon rejection, an appeal may be made together with the supporting papers.
From 2024, renewals will also be aligned with COMPASS requirements, so continued compliance becomes paramount.
Why Fastlane HR for Compass EP applications
At Fastlane HR, we specialize in helping businesses and professionals navigate Singapore’s dynamic work visa environment. Our team has successfully guided thousands of clients through EP applications in compliance with Compass.
How We Assist
- Pre-employment screening with the MOM’s Self-Ass.
- Score gap analysis in order to determine weak points in your COMPASS profile.
- Document verification & preparation to avoid delays.
- Filing applications and tracking with MOM.
- Appeals and renewals relating to refused/renewing EPs.
FAQs
Even though it’s the least, the MOM does verify compliance with each rule.
Yes — phased in for renewals from September 2024.
Actually, remunerations in excess of SGD 22,500 are.
You’re going to need high points somewhere else.
Conclusion
The Singapore COMPASS EP system changed the way that foreign professionals submit applications for Employment Passes. You can no longer merely meet the minimum salary threshold, but must think ahead in order to accumulate the necessary 40 COMPASS points. Wading through these regulations can be daunting.
That’s why professionals and businesses put their faith in FastLane HR to walk them through each step. Getting ready to apply for a COMPASS EP?
Contact FastLane HR now for a no-cost consultation and let us get your work visa approved.