Personalised Employment Pass Singapore: Unlocking Opportunities for Top Professionals

 

Singapore is a popular destination for professionals seeking job opportunities and growth. One of the options that high-earning professionals and foreign managers can explore is the Personalised Employment Pass (PEP). 

This guide delves into the PEP eligibility criteria, application procedure, and associated rules and restrictions, ensuring you confidently navigate Singapore's job market.

What is the Personalised Employment Pass?

an established professional

The Personalised Employment Pass (PEP) is a special work pass tailored for Singapore's high-earning foreign professionals. 

Its primary advantage? Flexibility.

Unlike the Employment Pass, PEP holders can change jobs without applying for a new pass, facilitating smoother transitions between industries.

What sets the PEP apart even further is its self-sponsored nature. This means professionals can apply for the PEP without needing an employer to sponsor the application. This makes it particularly attractive for those with sought-after skills and high mobility, as they can freely navigate different jobs and sectors without constraints.

Beyond these unique benefits, the PEP also offers pathways to permanent residency, making long-term planning in Singapore more feasible. Additionally, PEP holders can enjoy family privileges, allowing them to bring family members to the city-state on a Dependant Pass or Long-term Visit Pass.

The Ministry of Manpower (MOM) oversees the PEP application process and regulations. Applicants must meet MOM's salary requirements and other criteria to obtain the PEP. Once granted, PEP holders can work in any sector if they adhere to the pass's conditions.

Personalised Employment Pass PEP Eligibility Criteria

Singapore's Personalised Employment Pass (PEP) is aimed at foreign professionals and high-earning Employment Pass (EP) holders. 

These professionals may include managers, executives, and specialized skilled professionals. They are expected to possess acceptable qualifications, such as a university degree, relevant educational certificates, professional certifications, or significant industry experience.

Eligibility Breakdown:

  • Salary requirement: Salary Requirement: Applicants must have earned a fixed monthly salary of at least $22,500, with the last drawn salary within the past six months of the application.

Who's Not Eligible?

You are not eligible to apply for a PEP if you fall under one of the following:

  • An EP holder under the sponsorship scheme

  • A freelance or foreigner with plans to work as a freelancer in the country

  • A sole proprietor, partner, or director who's also a shareholder in an ACRA-registered company

  • A journalist, editor/sub-editor, or producer

You are also not allowed to start a business or carry out any form of entrepreneurial activity as a PEP holder. If you intend to be an entrepreneur in Singapore, you must apply for an EntrePass or Overseas Networks & Expertise Pass.

How to Maintain your PEP

To maintain the Personalized Employment Pass (PEP), you must adhere to the following criteria:

  • Avoid being unemployed in Singapore for more than six months at any given time. If unemployment exceeds this duration, your PEP must be canceled.

  • Earn a fixed salary of at least S$270,000 per calendar year. For those who obtained their PEP before 1 September 2023, the required annual salary is $144,000.

Application Procedure for Personalised Employment Pass PEP

1 - Submit Your Application

  • Method: You can start the applications through an employment agency or corporate service provider specializing in work visa and immigration services.

  • Form Completion: Download the Personalised Employment Pass application form. Upon completion, you'll get the bill reference number. Ensure you digitally sign the application form, as handwritten signatures are not accepted.

  • Payment: A fee of S$105 is required. This can be settled via PayNow or Telegraphic Transfer. The application will be processed once MOM receives the payment.

  • Online Submission: Use your SingPass to submit the application online and include the following documents:

    • Completed application form with signature

    • Screenshot of the banking page confirming your payment

    • All supporting documents as listed in the application form

  • Duration: The process typically takes about eight weeks. You can check the application status online. Successful application will result in an In-Principle Approval (IPA) sent to the email provided in the application form. This IPA gives you a six-month window to fly to Singapore and get the pass issued.

2 - Enter Singapore and Get The Pass Issued

  • Travel Plan: Upon receiving your IPA, you should plan your trip. You have about six months to do this.

  • Issuance Methods: There are two ways to do this: either you can do this on your own or work with an Employment Agency/Corporate Service Provider.

    • Self-issuance: If you applied online, you must request the issuance at the Employment Pass Services Centre (EPSC).

    • Agency-assisted issuance: Your employment agency will request via the EP eService.

  • EPSC Visit: Should you choose to visit the EPSC, ensure you book an appointment. Bring the necessary supporting documents and settle the fees (S$225 for each pass and, if applicable, S$30 for each Multiple Journey Visa) using accepted payment methods like AMEX, VISA, MasterCard, NETS, or CashCard.

3 - After Issuance

  • Notification: Once your pass is officially issued, you and your employment agency (if you used one) will receive a notification letter via email. This letter permits you to work in Singapore and travel in and out of the country while awaiting your Pass card.

  • Biometrics Registration: If your notification letter specifies it, you must register your biometrics (fingerprints and photos) at the EPSC. This should be done within two weeks of the pass being issued. Ensure you bring your original passport, appointment letter, and notification letter.

  • Receiving Your Card: Your pass card will be delivered to your registered address within five working days post-document verification. If you miss the delivery, you or an authorized representative can collect it from the EPSC three days after the second delivery attempt.

Tracking Your PEP Application Status

Keeping tabs on your PEP application progress is important. Thanks to the Ministry of Manpower's Employment Pass eService (formerly EP Online), you can track your application status easily.

How to Use the Employment Pass eService:

  1. Navigate to the Check Work Pass and application status page.

  2. Enter the required details: NRIC/FIN, In-Principle Approval (IPA) or work pass card serial number, date of birth, and, if applicable, your appointment code.#

  3. The system will promptly display your application's current status.

  4. Should there be any updates or changes needed for your application, you can make them directly through this portal.


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Personalised Employment Pass PEP Renewal

The Personalised Employment Pass (PEP) is valid for three years but cannot be renewed. If you wish to continue working in Singapore after its expiry, consider applying for an Employment Pass or Singapore Permanent Residence, provided they meet the requirements. PEP holders must apply for these alternatives at least six months before their PEP expires.

Personalised Employment Pass Cancellation

There are instances, like long-term unemployment, leaving Singapore permanently, or changes in eligibility, where you might need to cancel your PEP. In such cases: 

  1. Notify the Ministry of Manpower (MOM) about the cancellation.

  2. If unemployed, holders can stay in Singapore for up to 6 months while looking for a job to keep their PEP.

  3. Employers must also obtain tax clearance from the Inland Revenue Authority of Singapore (IRAS) at least one month before the employee's departure.

  4. After successful cancellation, the pass holder may need to apply for a Short-Term Visit Pass to stay in Singapore legally until departure or secure a new work pass.

Specific Rules and Restrictions for Personalised Employment Pass PEP

Once you obtain the PEP, you will have three years of job flexibility. However, please note that the pass is non-renewable, and you must maintain employment to keep your PEP valid. The PEP allows you to work in any sector but does not cover freelance work or independent contracting. 

To maintain your PEP status, you must be employed under a contract with an employer and maintain a formal employment status. Starting a business or engaging in entrepreneurial activities is not permitted for PEP holders. To be a business owner in Singapore, you must obtain an EntrePass or Overseas Networks & Expertise Pass. 

Additionally, professionals like physicians, dentists, architects, and lawyers must still satisfy registration requirements and personal particulars to practice in Singapore, even with a PEP. Journalists, editors, sub-editors, and producers may require a different work pass, such as the Employment Pass (EP).

Additional Features and Benefits of the Personalised Employment Pass PEP

One huge advantage of the PEP is bringing family members to Singapore. PEP holders can apply for a Dependant Pass or Long Term Visit Pass (LTVP) for their spouses, children, and, in some cases, parents. The process for obtaining Long Term Visit Passes is facilitated smoothly through the Employment Pass Services Centre (EPSC). It requires submitting relevant supporting documents like marriage certificates, birth certificates, and bank statements.

Due to the absence of any dependency on a specific employer, the PEP's duration is longer than the standard Employment Pass, which grants more extended work stays in Singapore. However, it is important to note that there is no dependency on any quota system for obtaining the PEP.

Unsuccessful Application and Appeal Procedures for Singapore Personalised Employment Pass PEP

In the event of a rejected Personalised Employment Pass (PEP) application in Singapore, it is crucial to understand the available options and steps for an appeal. The Ministry of Manpower (MOM) provides a comprehensive guide on addressing a rejected application and the necessary procedures involved.

  • Upon receiving a Personalised Employment Pass (PEP) rejection letter, applicants have three months to appeal the unsuccessful application.

  • It is important to examine the advisory within the rejection letter thoroughly and submit an appeal only if the applicant can address any issues mentioned in the letter.

  • If the PEP card is lost or stolen, it should be reported to MOM immediately.

  • To submit an appeal against a rejected PEP application, visit the online portal within three months and complete all forms accurately and completely.

  • Appeals may require additional documents or explanations of specific concerns raised during the initial assessment; therefore, applicants must prepare a detailed highlight of their application's strengths for reconsideration.

  • Applicants can use the MOM contact details provided to ask questions or seek clarification on their rejected PEP application; however, discussing matters in person is not advised due to the high volume of appeals.

Conclusion

The Personalised Employment Pass (PEP) in Singapore offers an ideal solution for high-earning professionals and Employment Pass holders seeking greater flexibility in their work arrangements. Not being tied to a specific employer allows PEP holders to switch employers without renewing their pass with each new company.

The Personalised Employment Pass in Singapore is a valuable option for talented professionals seeking a work pass with greater flexibility and fewer restrictions. With its unique advantages, the PEP continues to attract ambitious individuals who contribute to Singapore's diverse and vibrant workforce.

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Frequently Asked Questions about PEP:

What are the eligibility criteria for a Personalised Employment Pass?

The Personalised Employment Pass (PEP) is designed for high-earning foreign professionals. Eligible candidates include existing Employment Pass (EP) holders with a fixed monthly salary of at least S$ 22,500. 

How long is the Personalised Employment Pass valid for?

The Personalised Employment Pass is valid for up to 3 years and cannot be renewed. If a PEP holder wishes to continue working in Singapore after the validity period, they must apply for another applicable work pass, such as an Employment Pass.

What are the main benefits of having a Personalised Employment Pass?

A PEP offers several benefits to the pass holder, including increased job flexibility and the ability to change jobs without reapplying for a new pass. It also allows PEP holders to stay in Singapore for up to 6 months between jobs, enabling them to search for new employment opportunities while remaining in the country.

What is the minimum salary requirement for a Personalised Employment Pass?

To qualify for a PEP, existing EP holders must have a fixed monthly salary of at least S$22,500. Additionally, PEP holders must earn a fixed annual salary of at least S$270,000, regardless of their employment duration.

How do I apply for a Personalised Employment Pass in Singapore?

Qualified candidates can apply for a PEP through the Ministry of Manpower website. The application process involves submitting an online form with the required documents, such as a copy of the candidate's passport and educational certificates. The processing time for PEP applications is generally eight weeks.

Can a Personalised Employment Pass holder apply for Dependent Passes for their family?

PEP holders can apply for Dependent Passes (DP) for their spouses and unmarried children under 21. This allows PEP holders' families to live in Singapore while they work.

Further information about the Dependent Pass requirements and application process can be found on the Ministry of Manpower website.

Can I apply for a Singapore Employment Pass if I own or work for an Investment Holding Company in Singapore

Yes, you can certainly apply for a Singapore Employment Pass under these circumstances. It's important to note that the Ministry of Manpower looks closely at the applicant's role, the company's economic activity, and the company's contribution to the local economy. If you work for an investment holding company Singapore, it's essential to convincingly show your professional expertise and your company's potential positive impact on the Singaporean economy. Remember, it's not enough to just own or incorporate a company, you must actively contribute to its operational activities.

Raymond brings over a decade of experience in corporate, company secretarial, and investment banking. His expertise in international trade and corporate structuring was honed at renowned institutions like Standard Chartered Bank and Citibank. Raymond has built a robust client network, successfully helping numerous businesses relocate to Singapore from China, Hong Kong, Japan, Korea, South East Asia, Europe, and America.