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Singapore Personalised Employment Pass (PEP) Guide

10 min read|Last Updated: May 26, 2025|
Singapore PEP | Paul Hype Page & Co

The Key Takeaways

To summarise, Singapore’s Personalised Employment Pass holders function similarly to self-sponsored Employment Pass holders. After their employment ends, Personalised Employment Pass holders can remain in Singapore for up to 6 months.

But what happens after the validity of 3 years?

As the PEP is valid for only 3 years and only one PEP per lifetime, you are tied down to a few options at the end:

  • Drop down to an Employment Pass
  • Rise up to PR
  • Leave Singapore

Hence, if your goal is to work and stay in Singapore for at least another 5 to 7 years, it’s logical to secure a pass that will benefit you in the long run.

The Singapore Personalised Employment Pass is a desirable choice if you are a qualified top professional. This visa is also ideal for high-caliber executives, as it gives you more freedom and mobility within the employment market. It then allows you to apply for Permanent Resident status and achieve your goal of staying in the country.

What is a Singapore Personalised Employment Pass?

Singapore Personalised Employment Pass (PEP) is a special visa that falls under the professional tier of the work pass visa issued by the Ministry of Manpower (MOM).

Authorities issue a PEP to top-tier foreign professionals and managers with exceptional technical or domain expertise in an area related to their prospective job, selecting applicants based on their individual merits. Additionally, the other two work passes under the professional tier are the Employment Pass (EP) and Entrepreneur Pass (EntrePass).

Unlike the other two visas, the PEP allows you to sponsor yourself, meaning you don’t need an employer to apply on your behalf. Additionally, you can apply without having a job in Singapore and even while living overseas.

Therefore, a PEP holder is not tied to just one employer. Furthermore, the visa offers many advantages, such as allowing you to take a 6-month break from any job or engage in business coaching, among other opportunities.

Benefits of a Singapore PEP

Having a PEP comes with many benefits. Unlike other passes, where the employer binds you.

  • Holding this PEP gives you the freedom to explore and pursue your desired employment opportunities. Additionally, since you are not tied to any specific employer, you have the added benefit of switching jobs without needing to apply for new work passes. Instead, you can simply notify the authority by submitting a PEP notification form to MOM within 7 days of changing jobs.

    In contrast to other work visas, with the PEP, you don’t need to secure a job first. The PEP allows you to stay in Singapore for up to 6 months continuously while unemployed and actively seeking potential job opportunities.

  • As a PEP holder, you qualify for dependants’ privileges. You can bring your spouse and children under 21 years old, and your parents can also join you. However, they will need to apply for passes such as the Dependant’s Pass or Long-Term Visit Pass.

  • Additionally, holding the PEP gives you a clear pathway to a Singapore permanent residency visa (PR) with a high chance of approval. As a result, you may be able to secure PR approval within 1 year and enjoy all the social benefits of a Singapore citizen.

Singapore Office Gif

Limitations of a Singapore PEP Pass

The PEP may grant you many privileges. However, the setback is it also comes with its own limitations.

  • It’s important to note that the PEP is non-renewable and valid for 3 years. This means that after the 3 years if you still want to stay and work in Singapore, you can only apply for one of the two alternative passes – an Employment Pass (EP) or a Permanent Resident (PR) visa. Furthermore, if you cannot secure a job within the given 6 months with either of the two alternative passes, the authorities will cancel your PEP and grant you a 30-day short-term visit pass instead.

  • Additionally, you must earn a minimum annual fixed salary of SGD 270,000 per calendar year to maintain your PEP eligibility. As a result, this may pressure you to seek a high-salaried job, and you may have to pass up a good job opportunity that doesn’t meet the salary requirement.

  • Another important point to consider is that, although this pass is granted to you and not tied to any specific company, the PEP unfortunately forbids you from owning your own business or company in Singapore. Therefore, this pass is not ideal for foreign entrepreneurs or investors.

Wan Yi

Am I Eligible for Personalised Employment Pass?

The PEP specifically targets top management and professionals, and eligibility depends on the applicant’s previous monthly salary draws.

To be eligible for a PEP, you will need to be either:

  • An existing Employment Pass holder qualifies for the PEP if they currently earn a fixed monthly salary of at least SGD 22,500.

  • An overseas-based foreign professional can apply for the PEP if they have earned a fixed monthly salary of at least SGD 22,500 within the last 6 months before applying.

Other Criteria Include

  • In addition, to qualify for the PEP, you cannot be:

    • A freelancer or self-employed individual
    • An EP holder under a sponsorship scheme
    • A sole proprietor, partner, or director of a company registered with ACRA who also holds shares
    • A media professional such as a journalist, editor, sub-editor, or producer

  • Moreover, to qualify for the PEP, your Employment Pass cannot be issued through any sponsorship scheme if you are an existing Employment Pass holder.

  • Additionally, to qualify for the PEP, you cannot be a share-holding sole proprietor, partner, or director of any companies registered with ACRA.

Documents Required for Personalised Employment Pass Application

There are 2 different documents that you will need to prepare, depending on whether you are an existing Employment Pass (EP) holder or not.

For existing EP Holders For non-EP holders
  • Passport details
  • Name & address of current employer
  • Job & salary
  • Local contact details
  • Details of Dependant’s Pass holders
  • Long-term visit pass holders information
  • Copy of passport (personal details page)
  • Employment contract
  • Past 3 months’ pay slips and bank statements
  • Latest tax statements
  • Resume
  • Educational certifications

You will also need to fill out the PEP application form. Furthermore, you must submit all information and details in English. If your documents are in other languages, you must submit them only after having them officially translated.

Processing Time of a PEP Application

The Ministry of Manpower (MOM) typically processes most applications in about eight (8) weeks.

Once they approve your application, you will receive an In-Principle Approval (IPA) letter, which remains valid for six (6) months. Therefore, you must collect your pass within this timeframe from the MOM office in Singapore. Additionally, make sure you bring any additional documents requested in the letter.

Furthermore, if you receive a Personalised Employment Pass (PEP), it will be valid for three years. In addition, your dependents, who hold a Dependent’s Pass sponsored by the PEP, can stay in Singapore as long as your pass remains valid.

How to Maintain Your Personalised Employment Pass (PEP)?

All your employment information should be updated. This means that you will need to notify MOM through:

1. PEP Notification Form

  • Changes in employment status (to be updated within 7 days)
  • Change of local contact
  • Annual salary

2. Employment Pass Online Account (EPOL)

  • Changes or renewals of travel documents
  • Damaged or lost cards
  • Change of residential address

Personalised Employment Pass (PEP) Renewal

You cannot renew the PEP. To continue working after your 3-year PEP expires, you can apply for an Employment Pass (EP) or try to apply for a Singapore Permanent Residency. You can cancel your PEP at any time, but once cancelled, you will not be able to reapply for the PEP.

Difference between Personalised Employment Pass and Employment Pass

The Employment Pass (EP) is for foreign professionals working in managerial or executive positions or specialized fields. Both the Employment Pass and the Personalised Employment Pass share similarities, including:

  • The ability to bring family members under the Dependant’s Pass or Long-Term Visit Pass.
  • The ability to travel in and out of Singapore without entry visas.
  • The ability to apply for Permanent Resident status under certain criteria.

Along with these common features, these 2 passes have some significant differences as well. The differences include:

  • The PEP is not job or employer specific whereas the Employment Pass holder is bound to one employer.
  • PEP is valid for 3 years and is not renewable whereas Employment Pass is valid up to 2 years and is renewable thereafter.
  • Salary criterion. For PEP, holders must earn at least SG$18,000 and for Employment Pass, minimum salary qualification is SG$4,500.
  • For PEP application, it can be done by the applicant unlike the employment pass application, where the employer is obligated to apply on behalf of applicant.
  • For PEP, it is not necessary you have a job secured in Singapore prior to the application, but for Employment Pass you must have a job offer in Singapore with detailed offer letter which you have accepted. Only then you will be able to apply for an Employment Pass.
  • Approval of the PEP is granted based on the strength of individual merits whereas for Employment Pass, the approval is tied to the individuals personal and educational qualifications, specialised skills, relevant work experiences and salary.

How Difficult Is It to Get A Personalised Employment Pass (PEP)?How Difficult Is It to Get A PEP Pass?

Acquiring a Personalised Employment Pass (PEP) is relatively straightforward if you gather all the necessary documents, meet the eligibility criteria, provide proof of education and salary, and do not hold an existing employment pass. As long as you fulfil these requirements, applying for a PEP should go smoothly.

However, complications may arise during the PEP application process in certain circumstances. These issues can occur if you have missing documents or discrepancies in personal details, such as your name.

How Can I Convert My PEP to Singapore Permanent Residency?

As a holder of the Personalised Employment Pass (PEP), you can apply for a Singapore Permanent Residency (PR) after living in Singapore for at least six months. However, the PR application process follows a separate set of criteria. Authorities assess your PR application based on factors such as your individual contributions to Singapore, your family profile, and your ability to integrate into Singaporean culture. There is no specific duration of stay required to qualify for PR.

If you are interested in pursuing PR, you can read our comprehensive guide on how to apply for Singapore PR for detailed information and instructions.

How to Appeal Against a PEP Rejection?

Rejection of a Personalised Employment Pass (PEP) application rarely occurs unless you fail to meet the salary criteria or breach specific work pass conditions. However, if your PEP application is rejected, you have three months to lodge an appeal. You should only proceed with an appeal if you have strong justifications to support your case.

To begin, carefully review the rejection letter issued by the Ministry of Manpower (MOM) and focus on the specific reasons for the rejection. Understanding these grounds is crucial for preparing a compelling appeal letter and gathering the necessary supporting documentation.

The PEP appeal process typically takes around 8 to 10 weeks to complete. If you’re unsure about the reasons for the rejection or if the MOM doesn’t provide clear explanations, it’s recommended that you seek professional advice from an immigration consultancy. Their expertise can offer valuable insights, helping you navigate the appeal process more effectively and improve your chances of a successful outcome.

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FAQs

How long is the validity of my Employment Pass?2020-10-22T16:16:59+08:00

The validity of an employment pass is 2 years in general. 

What status is considered locally resident? Is Employment Pass Holder or Work Permit Holder sufficient? What about dependent pass and permanent resident?2020-06-22T14:40:05+08:00

We recognize the followings as “locally resident” – Singapore citizens, Singapore PRs, Employment Pass Holders & Dependant Pass Holders.

How do I know if my company is successfully incorporated in Singapore before my relocation?2020-10-22T16:16:18+08:00

After your company has been successfully incorporated, you will receive the Certificate of Good Standing from ACRA and a Company Business Profile.  Once you have these documents in hand, you will be assured that your company has been successfully incorporated. 

How long the registered company name is being reserved before my company is being incorporated.2020-10-22T16:16:26+08:00

Your registered company name will be reserved for 60 days before incorporation. You can apply for another 60 days extension if you need it. 

If I want to incorporate a Singapore’s Company here, can I bring my family here with Employment Pass?2020-10-22T16:16:02+08:00

Yes. An Employment Pass does include Dependent’s Pass and Long-Term Visit Pass for your family members. 

About The Author

Profile Picture For Jyotirmay (Jay) Vyas
Jyotirmay (Jay) Vyas is a seasoned business strategist and corporate advisor with extensive experience in company incorporation, market entry, and business expansion across Southeast Asia. With a strong focus on Singapore, Malaysia & Indonesia, Jay has helped numerous international clients successfully navigate the complexities of regional business environments, including regulatory compliance, licensing, and employment pass facilitation. Jay’s comprehensive knowledge spans corporate secretarial services, tax structuring, cross-border expansion strategies, and regulatory advisory, making him a trusted partner for companies aiming to expand their footprint in ASEAN markets. His client-centric philosophy and commitment to excellence have earned him a reputation for reliability, professionalism, and results-oriented service delivery.

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A company is deemed exempt from audits in Singapore, which means these companies will not need to appoint an auditor to have their accounts audited. However, they need to qualify to be a ‘small’ company based on at least 2 of these 3 criteria:

  1. Revenue not exceeding SGD 10 million for the financial year.
  2. Total assets not exceeding SGD 10 million at the end of the financial year.
  3. Number of employees not exceeding 50.

Despite such small companies are exempt from auditing, they still need to prepare accurate financial statements that comply with the standards in Singapore.

Auditing Practices in Singapore

  1. Enhances Credibility And Trust
    By providing independent assurance of the accuracy and reliability of a company’s financial statements, auditing helps to build credibility and trust with investors, creditors, and other stakeholders. This can lead to increased confidence in the company’s financial position and ultimately support its long-term success.
  2. Improves Financial Management
    Auditing provides valuable insights into a company’s financial health, which can help your managers make better decisions and improve financial management practices. This in turn leads to improved efficiency, better use of resources, and ultimately better financial results.
  3. Ensures Compliance With Regulations
    Auditing helps to ensure that a company complies with regulatory requirements and industry standards. By ensuring compliance with regulations, your company will be able to avoid legal and financial penalties and operate in a responsible and ethical manner.
  4. Helps Detect And Prevent Fraud
    Auditors are trained to identify and investigate fraud and other irregularities, which will definitely help you avoid any fraudulent activities in a company. This is especially important for maintaining the integrity of financial reporting and ensuring that stakeholders have accurate information to make informed decisio

ACRA
ACRA is Singapore’s business regulator. It ensures a trusted business environment by overseeing companies, accountants, and corporate service providers. Its functions include registration, financial reporting, auditing, governance, and disclosure. ACRA’s online platform, BizFile+, simplifies business processes.

IRAS
IRAS is Singapore’s tax authority. It assesses, collects, and refunds taxes. IRAS also educates taxpayers and investigates non-compliance. The MyIRAS portal offers online tax services.

Auditing in Singapore
In essence, ACRA sets the rules, and IRAS enforces them. Both agencies work together to maintain the integrity of financial reporting and ensure that companies are operating within the law. This is essential for investors, lenders, and other stakeholders who rely on accurate financial information.

certified audit partner logo

Paul Hype Page provides you with strategic business expansion and business compliance services for over 2 decades, servicing the best of the South East Asia region. We make your entrepreneurial experience seamless for both locals and foreign expats.

We can issue an IRAS-approved audit report that meets both the Singapore government’s requirements and your company’s needs. The audit function of your company is in good hands with our professional Singapore-certified auditors.

Our audit services in Singapore consist of a vast variety to cater to the specific needs of your organization.

  1. Annual Financial Audit
  2. Special Purpose Audit
  3. Certification for Subsidy Claim
  4. Audit
  5. Fixed Assets Certification
  6. Claim Certification
  7. Shares Certification
  8. Personal Income Certification

Foreigners looking to incorporate a company in Singapore must appoint a nominee director (local director) as required by ACRA regulations. A nominee director acts on behalf of the business owner but does not hold ownership or management control.

For Employment Pass (EP) holders, nominee director services allow for a smooth transition of ownership once the EP is approved. Options include Short-Term Nominee Director (STND) services for 2 or 6 months, ensuring compliance while awaiting EP approval.

If you are a foreigner, you cannot be the director of the company unless you have an Employment Pass also known as an EP. This renewable work visa permits you to live and work in Singapore, whether you’re an employee, business owner, or anything in between.

It’s the most popular choice for foreigners looking to start a business or relocate to Singapore.

First, You will have to incorporate your company under the name of a local Singapore director (Nominee Director). Then, you will have to apply EPass under your company so that we can transfer the ownership to you under your Employment Pass (EP).

The estimated timeline for the Singapore EP application is between 2-4 months, depending on the case. In some instances, it could drag up to 6 months if multiple rounds of appeals are requested.

Singapore Employment Pass (EP) – Eligibility & Benefits

The Singapore Employment Pass (EP) is a work visa for foreign professionals, managers, and executives relocating to Singapore.

Eligibility Criteria

You can apply for an EP if you:
✔️ Have a job offer in a managerial, executive, or specialized role from a Singapore company
✔️ Earn a minimum fixed salary of S$5,000/month
✔️ Hold a recognized diploma or degree from a reputable university
✔️ Possess specialist skills, professional qualifications, or relevant work experience
✔️ Score at least 40 points under the COMPASS framework

Why Apply for an Employment Pass?

✅ Legally live and work in Singapore
✅ Hassle-free travel without requiring an entry visa
✅ Potential pathway to Permanent Residency
✅ Flexibility to start and manage your own business
✅ Benefit from Singapore’s low tax rates

Are you a business owner in Singapore looking to expand your operations and reach new markets? Considering entry into a new market or expanding an existing one overseas? The MRA grant offers the financial boost you need to make it happen.

The purpose of the MRA grant is to support Singapore owned businesses for business development, promotion, and set-up costs when you set up a business in oversea.

At least 30% of the company’s equity must be held directly or indirectly by Singapore Permanent Residents (PRs) or citizens, determined by ultimate individual ownership.

The grant covers up to 50% of eligible costs for Local SMEs, with specific caps for different activities and limited to a maximum of S$100,000 per new market and may include:

  • Overseas Market Promotion (capped at S$20,000)
  • Overseas Business Development (capped at S$50,000)
  • Overseas Market Set-up (capped at S$30,000)

Currently, from April 1, 2023 to March 31, 2025, the grant covers up to 50% of eligible costs, capped at S$100,000.

If you are planning to establish a business in Singapore, opening a corporate bank account is a mandatory step upon incorporation. A dedicated corporate account ensures that business transactions remain separate from personal finances, allowing for clearer cash flow management, accurate income tracking, and efficient expense monitoring.

Our focus is to demonstrate your company’s tax substance and assist in selecting a banking solution tailored to your business needs. Most importantly, you do not need to be physically present—we collaborate with our trusted banking partners to enhance your chances of a successful corporate account opening.

If you are a foreigner, you will need a nominee director (local director) to incorporate your company in Singapore.

What is a Nominee Director?

Nominee director is an individual who is appointed to act as a director of the company on behalf of another individual or entity. For all foreigners establishing businesses in Singapore, having a nominee director is essential due to regulations from the Accounting & Corporate Regulatory Authority (ACRA).

There are 2 types of Nominee Director services in Singapore.

They are:

  • Long term Nominee Director (LTND) : 12 months
  • Short Term Nominee Director (STND) : 2 months and 6 months

If you are a foreigner, you cannot be the director of the company unless you have an Employment Pass.

First, You will have to incorporate your company under the name of a local Singapore director (Nominee Director). Then, you will have to apply EPass under your company so that we can transfer the ownership to you under your Employment Pass (EP).

What is Singapore Employment Pass?

Singapore Employment Pass, often referred to as the ‘EP,’ a work visa is issued to foreign professionals, managers, executives, and experts relocating to work in Singapore.

The estimated timeline for the Singapore EP application is between 2-4 months, depending on the case. In some instances, it could drag up to 6 months if multiple rounds of appeals are requested.

Check Your Company Name through ACRA using our free tool!

The requirements for registering a company in Singapore are simple and straightforward. They are:

At least one local resident director

Both Singapore residents and foreigners can serve as directors of a Singapore company, provided there is at least one director who is a Singapore resident.

At least one shareholder

To register a company in Singapore, you need at least one shareholder who can be a person or another company. You can have up to 50 shareholders, and all of them can be foreigners.

Local company secretary

Every Singapore company must have a company secretary who lives in Singapore and is responsible for ensuring the company meets its regulatory requirements and submits necessary filings.

Minimum of $1 Paid up Capital

You can establish your Singapore company with just $1 in paid up capital and share capital. If needed, you can add more funds later and inform the company registrar.

Registered Address in Singapore

Your company needs a registered address in Singapore where all the official documents will be sent to ; a PO box isn’t acceptable.
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