---
title: "Should I upgrade to an Employment Pass (EP) before applying for PR?"
topic: "Singapore Permanent Residence (PR) FAQ"
resource: "https://www.eh-immigration.com/faq/pr/pr-ep-upgrade"
last_updated: "2026-08-12"
---

# Should I upgrade to an Employment Pass (EP) before applying for PR?

Last updated: 2026-08-12

- It depends on your profile. While not mandatory, an EP (especially under the COMPASS framework) signals higher skill and salary levels.
- E&H often advises S-Pass holders to consider an upgrade if their salary is near the EP threshold, as it can meaningfully strengthen the "Economic Contribution" pillar of their PR application.

## Sources

- [Singapore's Retirement Age Is Now 64 — But Your Work Pass Decides Whether It Protects You](https://www.eh-immigration.com/articles/singapore-retirement-age-re-employment-pr-ep-holders)
- [ICA — Permanent Residence (PR)](https://www.ica.gov.sg/reside/PR)

## Related E&H service

- [Singapore PR service](https://www.eh-immigration.com/services/singapore-pr)

Canonical page: https://www.eh-immigration.com/faq/pr/pr-ep-upgrade