The Personalised Employment Pass, or PEP, is a work pass that offers flexibility to certain professionals in Singapore. It is designed for high-earning talent who want the option to change jobs without the hassle of reapplying for a new pass each time. This is not a visa that suits every career path, so having an immigration agency in Singapore assess your profile early can save time. Knowing exactly who qualifies and what the requirements are will prevent wasted effort and improve your chances of success.
What the Personalised Employment Pass Is
The personalised employment pass is issued by Singapore’s Ministry of Manpower and is meant for high-earning professionals. It allows the holder to change employers without having to apply for a new pass each time. Unlike the standard Employment Pass, the PEP is valid for three years and cannot be renewed. It is a medium-term solution for those who want job flexibility in Singapore while keeping a steady professional profile.
An immigration agency in Singapore can help assess whether you meet the criteria before applying. This can avoid wasting time on an application that does not fit the rules.
Income and Employment Requirements
The biggest hurdle for most applicants is the salary requirement. As of current guidelines, overseas professionals must have a last drawn fixed monthly salary of at least S$22,500. Employment Pass holders already in Singapore must be earning at least this amount to qualify for the switch. The Ministry of Manpower sets this high bar to attract senior-level talent.
Applicants also need to maintain an annual fixed salary of at least S$270,000 while on the PEP. Falling below this figure can lead to the pass being revoked. This ensures that the pass is reserved for those with stable, high-income roles.
Who Cannot Apply
The personalised employment pass or PEP is not for everyone. It is not open to freelancers, sole proprietors, or partners in businesses registered in Singapore. It is also not available to directors of companies without an active salary from the business. In short, the pass is designed for employees, not entrepreneurs. If you aim to start a company, other passes such as the EntrePass are more suitable.
Graduates from local institutions do not qualify for the PEP unless they already meet the income threshold. Likewise, workers on an S Pass cannot upgrade to a PEP directly.
Benefits of Holding a PEP
The main advantage is freedom to switch employers without reapplying for a pass each time. This can be useful if you want to explore roles in different companies or industries during your stay. The PEP also gives a six-month grace period to find a new job if you leave your current one. This is longer than most other work passes allow.
While the PEP offers flexibility, it does not allow you to start a business or work as a freelancer. All roles must be with Singapore-based employers, and you must keep the Ministry of Manpower updated on changes to your employment status.
When the PEP Makes Sense
The PEP is a good option if you are a senior professional with strong income stability who wants more control over career moves. For example, if you work in a specialised field where contracts are short-term, having a PEP can make transitions smoother. It is also suitable for those who want to explore Singapore’s job market without committing to one employer for the entire duration of their stay.
However, since the pass cannot be renewed, it should be part of a longer plan. Some use the three-year period to work towards permanent residency, although approval is not guaranteed and is assessed separately.
The Application Process
Applications are submitted to the Ministry of Manpower, either directly or through an authorised agent. Having an immigration agency in Singapore manage the process can help ensure all documentation meets the strict requirements. Typical documents include proof of salary, employment history, and valid travel documents.
Processing time is usually around eight weeks, but this can vary. Incorrect or incomplete applications will delay the outcome.
Staying Compliant
Once approved, you must follow all conditions attached to the PEP. This includes keeping to the income requirement, notifying the Ministry of job changes, and not exceeding the six-month unemployment allowance. Failure to comply can lead to cancellation of the pass and possible restrictions on future applications.
Key Takeaways for Applicants
The personalised employment pass is designed for a specific group: high-earning professionals who want job flexibility in Singapore. It offers benefits not found in other passes, but it comes with strict rules that must be followed. Assessing your eligibility before applying will save time and effort, and professional advice can make the process smoother. Contact Prime Immigration to find out if the Personalised Employment Pass is the right choice for your career plans in Singapore.
