Linx Team · 02/01/2026
Singapore remains a top destination for companies establishing Asia-Pacific operations. But the Employment Pass (EP) system has evolved significantly. The COMPASS framework introduced in 2023 adds complexity, salary thresholds keep rising, and fair consideration requirements mean you can't just hire whoever you want from wherever you want. Here's what's changed and what it means for hiring.
The Complementarity Assessment Framework (COMPASS) is now mandatory for most EP applications. It evaluates candidates on multiple criteria beyond just salary.
Minimum qualifying salary for EP has increased steadily and varies by sector and applicant age. Getting this wrong means rejected applications.
Before hiring a foreign professional, you must advertise the role on the government job portal and demonstrate that no suitable local candidate is available.
Singapore's EP system rewards companies that hire locally and pay competitively. Here's how to navigate the new environment.