If you’re planning to work in Singapore as a foreigner, one of the first things you need to consider is the cost of obtaining a work visa. The cost of a work visa in Singapore can vary depending on the type of visa you are applying for, your profession, and the duration of your stay. Navigating the costs of work visas can be a bit confusing if you don’t know where to start, but this article will provide a detailed breakdown of everything you need to know about the costs involved in obtaining a working visa in Singapore.
In this article, we will go over the different types of work visas in Singapore, what each one costs, and any additional fees that may be involved. By the end, you will have a clear understanding of how much you need to budget for your work visa application in Singapore.
What is a Work Visa in Singapore?
A work visa, or work pass, is an official document issued by the Singaporean government that allows foreign workers to legally work within the country. The specific type of work visa you need depends on your qualifications, job type, and salary level.
There are several types of work visas available in Singapore. The most common ones are:
Employment Pass (EP)
S Pass
Work Permit (WP)
EntrePass (for entrepreneurs)
Personalized Employment Pass (PEP)
Each of these visas has different eligibility requirements, fees, and processing procedures. Let’s break down the cost associated with each of these visas.
How Much Does an Employment Pass (EP) Cost?
The Employment Pass (EP) is typically for foreign professionals who have a job offer in Singapore. To qualify for an EP, you must earn a minimum monthly salary of SGD 4,500 (as of 2023), although this amount may be higher depending on your qualifications and experience. EP holders are usually in managerial, executive, or specialized roles.
Application Fee for Employment Pass
Application Fee: SGD 105
Issuance Fee: SGD 225
The application fee is paid when submitting the EP application, and it is non-refundable. The issuance fee is charged once the application is approved, and this fee is due when the EP is issued.
Additional Costs for Employment Pass
Dependant’s Pass: If you wish to bring family members to Singapore, you will need to apply for a Dependant’s Pass, which costs SGD 105 per application.
Long-Term Visit Pass: For common-law partners or stepchildren, you will need to apply for a Long-Term Visit Pass, which costs SGD 105.
It’s important to keep in mind that the Employment Pass is typically valid for one to two years, depending on the employment contract. Renewal fees are the same as the application fees, so you will need to pay again when renewing your pass.
How Much Does an S Pass Cost?
The S Pass is designed for mid-skilled workers who have a job offer in Singapore. To qualify for an S Pass, you need to earn at least SGD 2,500 per month and meet other eligibility criteria. The S Pass is typically for workers in sectors like construction, manufacturing, services, and healthcare.
Application Fee for S Pass
Application Fee: SGD 105
Issuance Fee: SGD 150
The application fee is the same as the EP, and it must be paid when submitting your S Pass application. Once the application is approved, there is an issuance fee of SGD 150, which is charged when the S Pass is issued.
Additional Costs for S Pass
Dependant’s Pass: The Dependant’s Pass for S Pass holders costs SGD 105 per application.
Long-Term Visit Pass: For common-law partners and stepchildren, the Long-Term Visit Pass costs SGD 105.
S Pass holders are usually granted passes that are valid for one to two years. Just like with the Employment Pass, there are renewal fees when extending your stay.
How Much Does a Work Permit (WP) Cost?
A Work Permit (WP) is a type of pass for foreign workers in lower-skilled jobs. This is commonly used by workers in sectors like construction, marine, process, or manufacturing. To qualify for a Work Permit, workers must meet specific criteria, such as having a valid job offer and meeting certain salary thresholds, which are typically lower than those for the Employment Pass or S Pass.
Application Fee for Work Permit
Application Fee: SGD 35
Issuance Fee: SGD 30 per month
The application fee for a Work Permit is much lower than the other passes, making it an affordable option for employers hiring foreign workers. The issuance fee is charged monthly, and it is due every month that the Work Permit is valid.
Additional Costs for Work Permit
Dependant’s Pass: The cost of a Dependant’s Pass for Work Permit holders is SGD 105 per application.
Long-Term Visit Pass: The Long-Term Visit Pass for common-law partners or stepchildren costs SGD 105.
Work Permits are usually issued for one or two years, and employers must pay monthly fees throughout the validity period. Employers are responsible for renewing the Work Permits and paying the associated fees.
How Much Does an EntrePass Cost?
The EntrePass is a work visa for foreign entrepreneurs who want to start and operate a business in Singapore. To qualify for an EntrePass, applicants must have a viable business plan and meet certain financial requirements, such as investing a minimum amount of capital in their business.
Application Fee for EntrePass
Application Fee: SGD 105
Issuance Fee: SGD 500
The application fee is due when submitting the application for the EntrePass. Once approved, there is an issuance fee of SGD 500, which is due when the EntrePass is issued. The EntrePass is valid for one year and can be renewed for subsequent years, subject to meeting the renewal requirements.
Additional Costs for EntrePass
Dependant’s Pass: Entrepreneurs can bring family members to Singapore through the Dependant’s Pass, which costs SGD 105 per application.
Long-Term Visit Pass: If the entrepreneur has common-law partners or stepchildren, they can apply for a Long-Term Visit Pass at a cost of SGD 105.
EntrePass holders are required to maintain certain criteria for business growth and investment to be eligible for renewal.
How Much Does a Personalized Employment Pass (PEP) Cost?
The Personalized Employment Pass (PEP) is a special type of pass for high-earning foreign professionals who are already working in Singapore on an Employment Pass. The PEP is designed to give professionals greater flexibility, allowing them to switch employers without needing to apply for a new pass.
Application Fee for PEP
Application Fee: SGD 105
Issuance Fee: SGD 225
Like other work passes, the PEP has an application fee of SGD 105. Once the application is approved, there is an issuance fee of SGD 225 to receive the pass.
Additional Costs for PEP
Dependant’s Pass: PEP holders can apply for a Dependant’s Pass, which costs SGD 105 per application.
Long-Term Visit Pass: The Long-Term Visit Pass for common-law partners or stepchildren also costs SGD 105.
The PEP is valid for three years, and renewal fees are the same as the application fees.
Other Costs to Consider
Aside from the main fees for work visa applications, there are other costs that employers and workers should consider when applying for a work visa in Singapore:
Medical Examination Fees: Some work pass applicants may need to undergo a medical examination as part of the application process. The cost of this medical examination can range from SGD 50 to SGD 200, depending on the medical provider.
Insurance Requirements: Employers are required to purchase medical insurance for their foreign workers. The cost of this insurance is usually borne by the employer but is an important factor to consider when calculating the overall cost of hiring a foreign worker.
Training Levy: Employers who hire foreign workers on a Work Permit may be required to pay a training levy. This levy varies depending on the industry and type of worker. It is a monthly charge and is used to help train and upskill workers.
Conclusion
The cost of obtaining a work visa in Singapore varies based on the type of visa, the worker’s qualifications, and the specific requirements of their job. While the application fees for most work passes are relatively affordable, there are additional costs such as issuance fees, dependant pass applications, medical examinations, and insurance to consider.
Employers and foreign workers should start the application process well in advance to ensure that they meet all the necessary requirements and are prepared to cover any associated costs. By understanding the costs involved and planning accordingly, you can ensure a smooth and efficient process for obtaining a work visa in Singapore.
Related topics:
- How Much Does It Cost for a Singapore Visa?
- How Much Money Do You Need to Immigrate to Canada?
- What Is the Salary Range in Singapore? A Comprehensive Guide
