Singapore Visa & Policy Updates
Singapore is raising Employment Pass salary thresholds to $6,000 and implementing a 40-point COMPASS renewal minimum starting July 2026. New policies include a specialized ONE Pass track for AI talent, expanded hiring from Non-Traditional Sources like Bhutan and Cambodia, and a target of 30,000 new citizenships annually. Travelers can still utilize the 96-hour visa-free transit facility while work permit quotas adjust to a $1,800 Local Qualifying Salary.
Singapore EP renewals face 40 point COMPASS minimum starting July 1
Starting July 1, all Employment Pass renewals must meet revised COMPASS salary benchmarks and updated shortage occupation lists. Expats and employers must review these new thresholds to ensure eligibility under the points-based assessment system.
Singapore adds 8 occupations to NTS Work Permit hiring on Sept. 1
Singapore will expand its Non-Traditional Sources framework to include workers from Bhutan, Cambodia, and Laos starting June 2026. This policy change allows employers in specific sectors to hire nationals from these countries under the standard work permit regulations.
Singapore targets 30,000 new citizens yearly to counter low birth rates
Singapore has announced a five-year strategy to grant up to 30,000 citizenships and 40,000 permanent residencies every year. This move aims to stabilize the population and provides a clearer long-term pathway for foreign professionals and expats seeking permanent status.
Singapore Updates Salary Thresholds for Employment Passes
Starting in 2025 and extending through 2028, Singapore will increase the minimum qualifying salaries for Employment Pass and S Pass applicants. These changes will make it more difficult for mid-to-junior level foreign professionals to secure or renew work visas as the government prioritizes higher-skilled talent.
Singapore Rolls Out ONE Pass AI Track and Work Pass Updates
Singapore is introducing a specialized ONE Pass track for AI and Tech talent starting January 2027. The updates also include an expanded occupation list for work permits and streamlined levy structures to be implemented by 2028.
What to Know About Singapore's Shifting Work Permit Rules
Singapore will increase the Local Qualifying Salary to $1,800 in 2026, which impacts the quota for hiring foreign workers on S Passes and Work Permits. Additionally, the Work Permit for Performing Artistes will be discontinued on June 1, 2026, affecting foreign entertainers in the nightlife and arts sectors.
Singapore Updates Employment Pass Salary Requirements
Singapore will increase the minimum qualifying salary for new Employment Pass applicants to $6,000, and $6,600 for financial services, starting January 2027. S Pass thresholds will also rise to $3,600, impacting eligibility for foreign professionals and mid-level skilled workers.