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In line with Singapore’s ambition to attract global talent to complement its local workforce, MOM (the Ministry of Manpower) is adding a second step to the Employment Pass application process. Currently, the Employment Pass eligibility and application framework consists of one stage: meeting the qualifying salary. This new, second stage will be a holistic scoring system called COMPASS (the Complementary Assessment Framework). For new applications and renewals, applicants will need to successfully pass both stages. COMPASS will be initiated on 1 September 2023 for new Employment Pass (EP) applications and on September 2024 for EP renewals.So how does it work?
EP applications will be scored using the COMPASS framework based on a wide range of factors relating to both the applicant and the company. Applications are scored on 4 foundational criteria and 2 bonus criteria, where additional points can be scored. Points can be scored for both the individual and the firm applying. Let’s start with the foundational criteria:
Is anyone exempt from COMPASS?
Applicants are exempt from COMPASS if they fulfil the following criteria:
● Earning at least S$20,000 fixed monthly salary
● Applying as an overseas intra-corporate transferee under the World Trade Organisation’s
General Agreement on Trade in Services or an applicable Free Trade Agreement that Singapore
is party to, OR
● Filling a role on a short-term basis (one month or less)
Overall, COMPASS will serve as a comprehensive scoring framework, ensuring businesses recruit not only high-quality professionals but also a tool to create a diverse and fair workforce. We can help you with your Employment Pass applications or renewals. Contact our team for advice and support – info@cslb-asia.com. Alternatively, book a 20 minute Q&A session at our Work Pass Clinic on the last Friday of the month.
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