| SCROLL

Singapore Employment Pass Case Study: Successful EP Approval for Trading Company

As Singapore continues to strengthen its foreign workforce policies, companies applying for an Employment Pass (EP) must navigate increasingly stringent requirements under the COMPASS framework. For many businesses, especially SMEs and trading companies, understanding the latest Ministry of Manpower (MOM) expectations can be challenging without proper guidance.

In this case study, we share how Finova Group successfully supported a trading company in securing an Employment Pass approval for its Director despite several potential risk factors under the current EP assessment framework.

Background of the Client

A trading company recently re-engaged Finova CAS to assist with an Employment Pass (EP) application for its Director, who had returned to Singapore after his previous EP expired.

While the client had prior experience operating in Singapore, they were not fully updated on the latest Employment Pass requirements and COMPASS evaluation criteria introduced by the Ministry of Manpower (MOM). As a result, there was a heightened risk of rejection if the application was submitted without understanding and aligning with the current evaluation criteria and objectives.

Key Challenges Identified

During our preliminary assessment, several concerns were identified that could potentially affect the success of the EP application:

1. Below-Market Salary Benchmarking

The proposed salary package initially fell below current market expectations for similar roles within the industry and seniority level.

2. Increased EP Qualifying Thresholds

Singapore’s EP qualifying salary requirements have increased progressively, particularly for experienced professionals and managerial positions.

3. Weak Specialised Skill Justification

The application required stronger justification on the Director’s specialised expertise, business value, and strategic role within the company.

4. Qualification Verification Concerns

There were concerns relating to the verification and presentation of academic qualifications and supporting documents.

5. Borderline COMPASS Assessment

Based on the preliminary review, the application appeared borderline under the COMPASS scoring framework.

Finova Group’s Strategy

To improve the likelihood of approval, Finova Group implemented a structured and strategic approach tailored to the client’s business profile and manpower needs based on below pointers:

a) Detailed Market Benchmarking Analysis

Our team conducted a comprehensive salary and market benchmarking review to ensure the proposed remuneration package aligned with industry standards and MOM expectations.

b) Advisory on COMPASS Framework Objectives

We guided the client through the objectives and assessment criteria of the COMPASS framework, helping them understand the evaluation of EP applications beyond salary alone.

c) Job Scope and Manpower Structuring

Finova Group worked closely with the client to refine the job scope, organisational positioning, and business justification of the Director’s role to align with the company’s operational and strategic requirements.

d) Structured EP Submission

We prepared and structured the EP application with supporting documentation aligned to COMPASS evaluation criteria, ensuring clarity, consistency, and stronger justification throughout the submission.

Outcome

Following the aforesaid guidance and refinement:

• The Employment Pass application was successfully approved

• The work pass was subsequently issued without complications

• A seamless application process was delivered for the client

‍

This case highlights the importance of proper planning, salary benchmarking, and strategic positioning when applying for an Employment Pass in Singapore. Navigating Singapore’s evolving Employment Pass landscape requires more than just paperwork.

It demands a deep understanding and alignment of the COMPASS framework.

A simple submission without proper alignment to current expectations may increase the risk of delays or rejection.

‍

At Finova Group, we support businesses with comprehensive Singapore work pass advisory and application services, including:

• Employment Pass (EP)

• S Pass

• Dependant’s Pass

• Work Permit

‍

Our team works closely with clients to ensure applications are such that the positioning of candidate and company is in line with the COMPASS framework.

For businesses planning to hire foreign professionals in Singapore, engaging experienced advisors early can significantly improve application readiness and success rates.