Singapore Work Pass: EP VS SP

2025-10-28

Is there a difference between EP and SP in Singapore? How to choose? Let's start with the conclusion: if you can choose EP, then choose EP. But if you can't apply for EP, SP is also a good choice. Let's take a look at the comparison between the two together.

Grade Comparison

EP is a work pass issued by the Singapore government to attract more foreign professional and technical talents to new employment opportunities, and it is also the highest level work pass issued by the MOM.

SP is a work pass provided by the MOM to foreign intermediate level technical employees.

Comparison of Application Conditions

1. Income threshold

1) The income threshold for EP is now $5500 per month, with higher requirements in the financial services sector at $6200. Starting from the age of 23, the starting salary will gradually increase with age, and those aged 45 and above may need to reach $10500 (compared to $11500 for financial professionals) when applying for an EP.

2) The threshold for applying for an SP is currently $3300, while in the financial services sector it is $3800. Starting from the age of 23, the starting salary requirement will gradually increase with age. For those aged 45 and above, applying for an SP permit may require a minimum of $4650 (compared to $5650 for financial professionals).

2. Educational threshold

1) EP: A bachelor's degree or above is more advantageous, and a college degree can also be applied for;

2) SP: Associate degree or technical qualification certification (requiring at least one year of full-time study to obtain technical certification).

3. Additional conditions

1) EP needs to meet a COMPASS score of 40 points.

2) SP requires the employer company to have a headcount quota: the number of SP employees in the service industry cannot exceed 10% of the total employees, and the number of SP employees in other industries cannot exceed 15% of the total employees.

Conclusion: It is evident that the application requirements for EP are higher.

Comparison of Admission Benefits

1. Bring family members

1) If the monthly salary exceeds SGD 6000, one can apply for DP for their spouse/unmarried children under the age of 21 (including legal adopted children).

2) If the monthly salary exceeds SGD 6000, you can apply for LTVP for your spouse (Common Law)/unmarried disabled children over 21 years old/unmarried stepchildren under 21 years old.

3) If the monthly salary exceeds SGD 12000, parents can apply for LTVP.

Conclusion: In this regard, EP and SP are consistent.

2. Entrepreneurial Freedom

SP cannot be a shareholder or director of the company.

EP can serve as a shareholder and director under certain conditions.

3. Apply for PR

Both EP and SP can directly apply for PR. Generally speaking, EP has more advantages than SP, but it also depends on the specific situation.

Conclusion: Obviously, EP has a higher degree of entrepreneurial freedom, and applying for PR will have a relative advantage.

Established in 2011 and officially registered with the Ministry of Manpower, Singapore Skyline Business is your trusted partner for work pass and PR applications. Our experienced team specializes in EntrePass, S Pass (SP), Work Permit (WP), PEP,ONE pass,self-employed EP, and Dependant Pass (DP)/Long-Term Visit Pass (LTVP) applications. For expert assistance, feel free to contact us via WeChat (WeChat ID: sissi-skyline) or WhatsApp us at +65-91328885.

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