The Ministry of Manpower (MOM) has recently introduced significant updates to the S Pass application process, impacting the eligibility criteria, salary requirements, and levy rates. These changes are designed to streamline the process for foreign nationals wishing to live and work in Singapore while aligning with the country’s labor market needs. Whether you're an employer in Singapore hiring foreign workers or an applicant looking to apply for the S Pass, understanding these updates is crucial for a smooth and efficient process. Below are the top 3 key changes to the work pass application.
1. Enhanced Medical Insurance Requirements for Foreign Workers in Singapore
Employers are required to buy and maintain medical insurance (MI) for each S Pass holder they employ, before the S Pass application can be issued or renewed. Starting from 1 July 2025, additional enhancements will be made to the MI coverage, including standardization of allowable exclusion clauses, introduction of age-differentiated premiums for those aged 50 and below and those aged above 50, and requirement for insurers to reimburse hospitals directly upon admissibility of a claim. These enhancements are designed to provide greater protection for both S Pass holders and employers while ensuring clearer and more comprehensive coverage for medical needs.
2. Revised Minimum Qualifying Salaries / Eligibility for S Pass Application
Effective from 1 September 2025, the minimum qualifying salary for S Pass applications will be raised. For non-financial sectors, applicants must earn a fixed monthly salary of at least $3,300. For the financial services sector, the salary requirement will increase to a minimum of $3,800. These changes aim to bring the S Pass in line with the prevailing wages of local Associate Professionals and Technicians (APTs) in Singapore. As a result, foreign workers will need to earn a fixed monthly salary and show relevant work experience as well as technical certificate to be eligible to apply for an S Pass. This update also ensures that workers in Singapore contribute to the economy at competitive pay levels.
3. Increased Work Pass (S Pass) Levy Rates
In addition to raising the salary thresholds, employers will now face an increase in the S Pass levy rates, effective from 1 September 2025. The Basic/Tier 1 levy rate will rise from $550 to $650 per S Pass holder. This change will impact employers who hire foreign workers on work visas, especially those who hired a number of S Pass holders, as they will need to pay a higher levy for each S Pass holder. The higher levy helps ensure that the cost of employing foreign workers is balanced with local job creation and workforce development in Singapore.
Conclusion
This article has highlighted the recent updates on the requirements of S Pass in Singapore that both employers and foreign workers need to be aware of. It is crucial for applicants to meet the new criteria of minimum salary to be eligible for the pass. Employer must ensure the enhanced medical insurance requirements is aligned to prevent any delay to get the pass issued. Employers should also consider the increased in S Pass levy rate as part of manpower cost before hiring.
Apart from above, employers are reminded to always check on the availability of the work pass quota and furnish the documents required on time to avoid the work pass application being rejected. By understanding the updated process and complying with the new regulations, the onboarding process will be as smooth as butter.
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