Singapore: New Points System for EP Applicants from 2023

Singapore
Singapore will introduce a new points system for Employment Pass (EP) applicants from 2023, in addition to higher qualifying salary thresholds.
The government hopes that the new system – laid out under the Complementarity Assessment Framework (COMPASS) – will improve the capacity of Singaporean businesses to select high-quality foreign professionals and ensure workforce diversity.Future EP applicants must score at least 40 points under the COMPASS system, which are awarded based on four attributes and two bonus criteria.COMPASS will come into effect for new applicants from September 2023 and for renewal applicants from September 2024.
Increase in Employment Pass qualifying salaries
Under Singapore’s 2022 budget, the government announced an increase to the qualifying minimum salaries for several work permits, primarily the Employment Pass and the S Pass permits.The qualifying salary threshold for EP applicants has been raised to S$5,000 (US$3,694) from the current S$4,500 (US$3,332).  The EP permit is issued to expatriates hired as managers, executives, and skilled professionals in Singapore.
For EP applicants in the financial sector, the minimum salary has also been increased to S$5,500 (US$4,064) from S$5,000 (US$3,694). The increased requirement will be applied to new applicants from September 2022, and in September 2023 for renewal applicants.
How COMPASS works
The COMPASS framework evaluates EP applications on individual and firm-related attributes. These are based on four foundational criteria where the applicant earns points on whether they meet or exceed expectations.
Applicants can also earn additional points on two bonus criteria – one for candidates in jobs where there is a skills shortage, and second, for firms that engage in innovation and internationalization activities.40 points are required to pass COMPASS.
COMPASS scoring 
The scoring system is highlighted in the following table.
PMET: Professionals, managers, executives, and technicians.The skills bonus is reduced to +10 if the share of the candidate’s nationality is one-third or higher among the firm’s PMETs.Small firms with fewer than 25 PMET employees score 10 points on C3 and C4 by default.
Who is exempted from COMPASS?
The candidate is exempted from COMPASS if they fulfill the following conditions:Earning a fixed salary of at least S$20,000 (US$14,667) per month;Filling a role on a short-term basis, one month or less;Applying as an overseas intra-corporate transferee under the World Trade Organization’s General Agreement or a free trade agreement Singapore is a party to.
What is the definition of self-employed immigration to Singapore?
Self-employed immigration to Singapore is meant for individuals who want to do business in Singapore and contribute to the Singapore’s society with honest purpose. Self-employed individuals worked in Singapore for a period of more than two years can apply for permanent residency.
How does EP holder apply for PR?
After the main applicant company operates for 2 full fiscal years, complete the application for the main applicant to renew the EP, and then submit the application for the family PR.Live in Singapore for at least half a year each year, but it is suggested that the longer you live,  the better.Contribute to Singapore’s society and complete the corresponding volunteer hours.

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