Over the following few years, Singapore’s Ministry of Manpower (MOM) will gradually introduce adjustments to the Employment Pass (EP) eligibility framework. These adjustments will improve the caliber of EP holders and their compatibility with the local labor force.
The Most Important Changes Coming Up
Minimum Salary
For EP renewals, the minimum pay will increase. The qualifying wage for EP renewals will, starting on September 1, 2023, be based on the top third of the local PMET (professionals, managers, executives, and technicians) earnings by age.
Framework for Complementarity Assessment (COMPASS)
For EP applications, a new COMPASS scoring system based on points will be implemented. Based on five factors, COMPASS will determine whether EP candidates complement the local labor force.
* Education
* Work Experience
* Skills
* Salary
* Sector
Candidates for an EP must receive a minimum of 40 points to qualify.
List of Shortage Occupations (SOL)
To identify jobs that need for highly specialized skills and are currently underrepresented in the local workforce, a Shortage Occupation List (SOL) will be developed. EP candidates who successfully fill a position on the SOL can receive up to 20 bonus points on COMPASS.
Impact on Employers
The planned modifications to the EP eligibility structure will have a big effect on Singaporean employers. To be eligible for an EP, employers must make sure that their candidates match the new standards. To guarantee that their workforce complements the local workforce, employers will also need to be more judicious in how they choose to hire foreign talent.
Our View Regarding Hiring
Think about starting your job advertisements locally, particularly on websites like MyCareersFuture. This can significantly increase your visibility among Singaporeans or other permanent residents who might apply.
It’s critical to improve your careers website if you have one in order to clearly depict what working for your firm can entail. Instead, make sure interested job seekers can quickly learn more about your team.
Prior to starting the interviewing process, make sure to solidify your interview process. The entire process can be streamlined by being aware of the duration, the number of candidates you’re ready to consider, and the deadline for making an offer.
Consider working with an experienced recruiter to compile a varied pool of applicants, paying special attention to individuals who will fit in with the culture of your company.
Finally, it’s critical to keep in regular contact with all applicants. This is a useful strategy for protecting your employer brand and promoting a satisfying applicant experience.
Conclusion
The proposed modifications to the EP eligibility framework are a step in the right direction toward improving the caliber of EP holders and their ability to complement the local labor force. These modifications will aid in ensuring that Singapore continues to be a competitive and alluring location for international talent.
Additional Information
Please visit the MOM website at https://www.mom.gov.sg/passes-and-permits/employment-pass/future-changes-to-employment-pass-eligibility for additional details on the upcoming modifications to the EP eligibility framework.
