Work pass guidance
Employment Pass renewal checklist for employers
Most EPs can be renewed 6 months before expiry. Use this checklist to reduce last‑minute risk and keep employees work‑ready.
6–5 months before expiry: readiness scan
- Eligibility & salary: confirm the latest EP minimum qualifying salary for the candidate’s age and sector. Adjust comp if required.
- Role & scope: make sure job title and responsibilities still reflect PME work at the renewed salary level.
- COMPASS outlook: check if company scorecards (e.g., salary benchmark, diversity, skills) remain strong; close any gaps early.
4–3 months before expiry: documentation
- Confirm passport validity (preferably > 6 months) and gather updated CV/qualifications if there were changes.
- Prepare supporting letters: explanation of role evolution, business need, performance and market pay positioning.
- Check compliance housekeeping: IRAS notices, CPF (if applicable), business registration status, shareholding changes.
3–2 months before expiry: submit renewal
- Submit the renewal application via EP Online with correct data (title, salary breakdown, duties, supervisor and company details).
- Track for MOM clarifications (e.g., job scope, salary proof, organogram). Respond promptly with concise evidence.
- Inform the employee of travel plans to avoid passport conflicts during issuance window.
After approval: issuance & onboarding
- Plan issuance and medical (if required), fingerprinting and photo registration (Biometrics).
- Update HRIS/payroll with the new expiry date and salary components; communicate benefits changes if any.
- Calendar the next renewal milestone and keep core documents (contracts, degree verifications) current.
Common pitfalls: cutting it too close on timing, salary below current MQS for the candidate’s age, or not evidencing the PME nature of the role (scope vs title mismatch).