Outline
If you are a foreigner earning a monthly salary of $18,000 and would like to start a business or seek for a new job, you can consider apply for the Singapore Personalised Employment Pass.
What is a Singapore Personalised Employment Pass?
Singapore Personalised Employment Pass (PEP) is a special visa that falls under the professional tier of the work pass visa issued by the Ministry of Manpower (MOM).
Authorities issue a PEP to top-tier foreign professionals and managers with exceptional technical or domain expertise in an area related to their prospective job, selecting applicants based on their individual merits. Additionally, the other two work passes under the professional tier are the Employment Pass (EP) and Entrepreneur Pass (EntrePass).
Unlike the other two visas, the PEP allows you to sponsor yourself, meaning you don’t need an employer to apply on your behalf. Additionally, you can apply without having a job in Singapore and even while living overseas.
Therefore, a PEP holder is not tied to just one employer. Furthermore, the visa offers many advantages, such as allowing you to take a 6-month break from any job or engage in business coaching, among other opportunities.
Benefits of a Singapore Personalised Employment Pass (PEP)
Having a PEP comes with many benefits. Unlike other passes where you are bound by the employer,
Limitations of a Singapore Personalised Employment Pass (PEP)
The PEP may grant you many privileges. However, the setback is it also comes with its own limitations.
Am I Eligible for Personalised Employment Pass?
The PEP specifically targets top management and professionals, and eligibility depends on the applicant’s previous monthly salary draws.
To be eligible for a PEP, you will need to be either:
Other criteria include:
Documents Required for Personalised Employment Pass (PEP) Application
There are 2 different documents that you will need to prepare, depending on whether you are an existing Employment Pass (EP) holder or not.
| For existing EP Holders | For non-EP holders |
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You will also need to fill out the PEP application form. Furthermore, you must submit all information and details in English. If your documents are in other languages, you must submit them only after having them officially translated.
Processing Time of Personalized Employment Pass (PEP) Application
The Ministry of Manpower (MOM) typically processes most applications in about eight (8) weeks.
Once they approve your application, you will receive an In-Principle Approval (IPA) letter, which remains valid for six (6) months. Therefore, you must collect your pass within this timeframe from the MOM office in Singapore.
Additionally, make sure you bring any additional documents requested in the letter.
Furthermore, if you receive a Personalised Employment Pass (PEP), it will be valid for three years. In addition, your dependents, who hold a Dependent’s Pass sponsored by the PEP, can stay in Singapore as long as your pass remains valid.
How to Maintain Your Personalised Employment Pass (PEP)?
All your employment information should be updated. This means that you will need to notify MOM through:
1. PEP Notification Form
- Changes in employment status (to be updated within 7 days)
- Change of local contact
- Annual salary
2. Employment Pass Online Account (EPOL)
- Changes or renewals of travel documents
- Damaged or lost cards
- Change of residential address
Personalised Employment Pass (PEP) Renewal
Difference between Personalised Employment Pass and Employment Pass
Both the Employment Pass and the Personalised Employment Pass share similarities, including:
- The ability to bring family members under the Dependant’s Pass or Long-Term Visit Pass.
- The ability to travel in and out of Singapore without entry visas.
- The ability to apply for Permanent Resident status under certain criteria.
Along with these common features, these 2 passes have some significant differences as well. The differences include:
How Difficult Is It to Get A Personalised Employment Pass (PEP)?
Acquiring a Personalised Employment Pass (PEP) is relatively straightforward if you gather all the necessary documents, meet the eligibility criteria, provide proof of education and salary, and do not hold an existing employment pass. As long as you fulfil these requirements, applying for a PEP should go smoothly.
However, complications may arise during the PEP application process in certain circumstances. These issues can occur if you have missing documents or discrepancies in personal details, such as your name.
Converting my Personalised Employment Pass (PEP) to Singapore Permanent Residency
If you are interested in pursuing PR, you can read our comprehensive guide on how to apply for Singapore PR for detailed information and instructions.
How to Appeal Against a Personalized Employment Pass (PEP) Rejection?
Rejection of a Personalised Employment Pass (PEP) application rarely occurs unless you fail to meet the salary criteria or breach specific work pass conditions. However, if your PEP application is rejected, you have three months to lodge an appeal. You should only proceed with an appeal if you have strong justifications to support your case.
To begin, carefully review the rejection letter issued by the Ministry of Manpower (MOM) and focus on the specific reasons for the rejection. Understanding these grounds is crucial for preparing a compelling appeal letter and gathering the necessary supporting documentation.
The PEP appeal process typically takes around 8 to 10 weeks to complete. If you’re unsure about the reasons for the rejection or if the MOM doesn’t provide clear explanations, it’s recommended that you seek professional advice from an immigration consultancy. Their expertise can offer valuable insights, helping you navigate the appeal process more effectively and improve your chances of a successful outcome.
Summary
But what happens after the validity of 3 years?
As the PEP is valid for only 3 years and only one PEP per lifetime, you are tied down on a few options at the end:
Hence, if your goal is to work and stay in Singapore for at least another 5 to 7 years, it’s logical to secure a pass that will benefit you in the long run.
The Singapore Personalised Employment Pass is a desirable choice if you are a qualified top professional. This visa is also ideal for high-caliber executives, as it gives you more freedom and mobility within the employment market. It then allows you to apply for Permanent Resident status and achieve your goal of staying in the country.
FAQs
The validity of an employment pass is 2 years in general.
We recognize the followings as “locally resident” – Singapore citizens, Singapore PRs, Employment Pass Holders & Dependant Pass Holders.
After your company has been successfully incorporated, you will receive the Certificate of Good Standing from ACRA and a Company Business Profile. Once you have these documents in hand, you will be assured that your company has been successfully incorporated.
Your registered company name will be reserved for 60 days before incorporation. You can apply for another 60 days extension if you need it.
Yes. An Employment Pass does include Dependent’s Pass and Long-Term Visit Pass for your family members.
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