Last updated: 2026-08-12
What's the difference between an S Pass and an Employment Pass?
S Pass is for mid-skilled workers, has a lower salary threshold, and is subject to sector quotas and a monthly levy; EP is for higher-skilled professionals and managers, has a higher salary threshold, and carries no quota or levy. Which one applies depends on the role and salary, not the applicant's preference.
The practical differences
The EP is for professionals, managers and executives and currently requires a qualifying salary of at least S$5,600 (S$6,200 in financial services) plus 40 COMPASS points. The S Pass is for mid-skilled workers at a lower salary threshold (S$3,300 for new applications from 1 September 2025), but it is capped by the employer's sector quota and attracts a monthly levy.
Which one applies to you
The pass type follows the role and salary — an employer cannot choose to put a qualifying professional on an S Pass to save the levy, because MOM assesses the job level against the pass criteria. If you are deciding between offers, the difference in threshold, quota and levy can be decisive.
Related questions
- What are the basic eligibility requirements for an Employment Pass (EP)?
- What are the eligibility requirements for an S Pass?
- Can I transfer my S Pass to a new employer?
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