Starting in September 2023, applications for the Employment Pass will integrate a point system with a minimum threshold in order to be accepted. This point system has been named the Complementarity Assessment Framework (COMPASS) and was announced by Manpower Minister Tan See Lang in early March 2022. This new step in the application process aims to ensure that EP holders better complement the resident workforce of Singapore.
In order for an EP application to be approved, it must score a minimum score of 40 points in the COMPASS. The framework assigns points (0, 10 or 20) for each of the following four foundational criteria, as well as two bonus criteria:
There is no minimum points requirement for an individual criterion. A candidate who may score 0 points in certain categories but still meets the 40-point requirement will still be approved.
This new evaluation system will also apply to EP renewal procedures from September 1, 2024. This will also include a revision of requirements such as the minimum qualifying salary, amongst others.
The Finance Minister, Lawrence Wong, stated during his Budget Speech in February that the qualifying salary for EP holders will be increased from SGD 4,500 to SGD 5,000. For EP holders in the financial services sector, it will be raised to SGD 5,500 from the current SGD 5,000. These changes will apply to existing EP renewal applications from September 1, 2023 in order to give businesses time to adapt.
Below is a table provided by the Ministry of Manpower (MOM) setting out the criteria to be used in the COMPASS points-based system for evaluating Employment Pass applications.
More points may also be earned on two bonus criteria, which recognize applications that bring in skills where there is a shortage and to support strategic economic priorities, thus creating good jobs for Singaporeans, MOM said.
The COMPASS framework was not designed to make it harder for companies to obtain an EP, noting that a good majority of applications would meet the criteria, Dr. Tan explained.
"Some firms would need to make adjustments under COMPASS. And they would know clearly which areas to improve on and how to respond accordingly, given the transparency, clarity, and predictability of COMPASS," he said.
Dr. Tan concluded that: "For Singapore, COMPASS will allow us to remain open to complementary talent in short supply here so we can grow our frontier industries to bring us into the next stage of growth."
Fidinam is here to support your business in the transition to COMPASS. Contact us at info@fidinamgw.com or via the form below for more information.
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