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Contractor guide
Many Singapore contract jobs are open to Employment Pass or S Pass holders, and some to citizens only. Here is how work passes work on a contract, who applies for them and what happens when a contract ends.
| Pass | For | Minimum qualifying salary |
|---|---|---|
| Employment Pass (EP) | Professionals, managers and executives | S$5,600 a month (S$6,200 in financial services) from 1 January 2025, higher for older candidates, plus the COMPASS points framework |
| S Pass | Mid-skilled staff | S$3,300 a month (S$3,800 in financial services) from 1 September 2025, higher for older candidates; employers pay a levy and have a quota |
| ONE Pass | Top talent | S$30,000 a month, and lets you work for several companies |
The Employment Pass is the main work pass for foreign professionals, and the one most often mentioned in IT, banking and consulting contract jobs. It is issued for a named employer and a named role: on a contract through an agency, the agency is your employer and holds the pass. A first EP is usually issued for up to 2 years and can be renewed.
The S Pass covers mid-skilled roles, for example some technical, operations and support contracts. Employers pay a monthly levy and can only hire a limited share of S Pass holders, which is why fewer contract jobs mention it.
Because the pass is tied to the employer, a gap between contracts or a change of agency means a new application. Many recruiters prefer candidates who already hold a pass that the same agency can keep, or Singapore citizens and permanent residents who can start straight away.
Under the Fair Consideration Framework, most employers must advertise a role on MyCareersFuture before applying for an EP, so that local candidates are considered fairly. Some contracts, especially in government, are open to Singapore citizens only.
This guide gives general information based on public sources. The criteria are set by the Ministry of Manpower and change regularly: always check the current rules on the MOM website and with your employer.
See the latest contract jobsCan I work as a contractor in Singapore on an Employment Pass?
Yes, as an employee. An EP is tied to one employer, so on an agency contract the agency is usually your employer and applies for the pass. You cannot take on work for another company or freelance on the side without the right approval.
What happens to my EP when my contract ends?
Your employer cancels the pass when your employment ends. To start a new contract with a different agency or company, your new employer has to apply for a new pass, so plan the timing with your recruiter.
What is COMPASS?
COMPASS is the points based framework the Ministry of Manpower uses for Employment Pass applications. It scores salary, qualifications, the diversity of the workforce and local employment at the company. Candidates earning at least S$22,500 a month are exempt.
Why do some contract jobs say Singapore citizens only?
Some government and public sector roles are open only to citizens, and some clients want to avoid a pass application for a short contract. Before an employer applies for an EP, it must usually advertise the role on MyCareersFuture under the Fair Consideration Framework.
Can my family join me on a contract?
An EP or S Pass holder earning at least S$6,000 a month can usually apply for a Dependant’s Pass for a spouse and children. Check the current criteria with the Ministry of Manpower.
