Singapore to launch COMPASS for EP applications
Last updated on 31 May 2023
To ensure that Singapore attracts high-quality candidates to seek work in here, the Ministry of Manpower (MOM) will be introducing the Complementary Assessment Framework (COMPASS) from 1 September 2023 to assess the eligibility of all Employment Pass (EP) applicants.
The two-stage COMPASS assigns points on the applicants’ individual and firm-related attributes across 4 foundational and 2 bonus criteria. Applicants and firms will be awarded points for each criteria to and are required to accumulate at least 40 points to pass COMPASS. The criteria are explained in the table below.
COMPASS scoring table
Applicants can make up the 40 points required through any permutation of the 6 criteria.
The Shortage Occupation List recognises EP holders in occupations that require highly specialised skills that are currently in shortage in the local workforce. The Strategic Economic Priorities Bonus recognises firms participating in a list of eligible programmes in line with Singapore’s strategic economic priorities. These are firms undertaking ambitious investment, innovation, and internationalisation activities in partnership with economic agencies, or firms endorsed by National Trades Union Congress (NTUC) as strong partners on company and workforce transformation activities.
Applicants and firms can approach HR & payroll services Singapore providers to assist them in their application or provide advice on the assessment criteria.
