2026 Singapore EP and SP Work Pass Regulatory Update: Salary Thresholds Raised Across the Board — These Talents Are More in Demand
Time:
1/31/26
From:
AVA Group
Singapore’s work pass framework is entering a new round of adjustments. From 2026 onwards, the eligibility thresholds, scoring framework, and sectoral focus for the Employment Pass (EP) and S Pass (SP) will see significant changes. These revisions will not only affect new applicants planning to work in Singapore, but also current pass holders applying for renewals.
If you are planning your career move to Singapore — or are already on a professional track here — the following key changes deserve close attention.
1. Higher EP Salary Thresholds — Older Applicants Face Higher Requirements
From 2026, both new EP applicants and existing EP holders renewing their passes must meet revised salary criteria.
Financial services sector: minimum monthly salary of S$6,200
All other sectors: minimum monthly salary of S$5,600
Importantly, the required salary increases with age. Applicants aged 45 and above may need to earn up to:
S$10,700 per month (non-financial sectors)
S$11,800 per month (financial services)
This represents a significantly higher benchmark compared to younger applicants.
2. Additional Points for Shortage Occupations
In November last year, Singapore’s Ministry of Manpower released the updated Shortage Occupation List (SOL), covering 7 key sectors and 29 specific occupations.
Applicants working in these roles can receive direct bonus points under the COMPASS evaluation framework. The sectors include:
Agri-tech
Financial services
Green economy
Healthcare
Information & Communications Technology (ICT)
Maritime
Semiconductors
Examples of listed roles include AI engineers, carbon traders, and clinical psychologists — reflecting Singapore’s strategic focus on attracting talent in high-impact and future-oriented industries.
Applicants earning S$22,500 or more per month are exempted from the COMPASS assessment.
3. Updated List of Recognised Institutions — Greater Emphasis on Academic-Industry Alignment
The Ministry of Manpower has also updated the list of institutions eligible for educational bonus points under the EP framework. The list is divided into two tiers:
Group A (131 institutions)Graduates receive 20 bonus points regardless of field of study. Newly added universities include Tufts University and the University of Sheffield.
Group B (42 institutions)Graduates receive 10 bonus points only for designated majors. Examples include:
Computer Science (University of California, Davis)
Financial Technology (University of New South Wales)
This revision signals a stronger emphasis on the combination of “strong academic credentials + relevant professional expertise.” High salary alone may no longer be sufficient if educational background and skills are not well aligned.
4. S Pass Thresholds Raised — Quota Limits Remain
The S Pass salary thresholds will also increase in 2026:
Financial services: S$3,800 per month
Other sectors: S$3,300 per month
For applicants aged 45 and above:
S$4,800 per month (non-financial sectors)
S$5,650 per month (financial services)
From 1 September this year, existing S Pass holders renewing their passes must also meet the updated salary requirements.
In addition, S Pass quotas remain in place:
Service sector companies: S Pass holders capped at 10% of total workforce
Other sectors: capped at 15%
The 2026 adjustments to Singapore’s work pass policies clearly signal a stronger emphasis on quality and structural alignment in foreign talent recruitment.
For individuals, this means earlier planning and more targeted enhancement of academic credentials and professional skills will be crucial.
If you would like an assessment of whether you meet the new requirements, guidance on preparing for shortage occupations, or support during the application process, feel free to contact us. We provide professional advisory services on Singapore work passes and talent planning — including policy interpretation, eligibility assessment, and application support — to help you move forward confidently in the evolving landscape.