MOM mulls 4 changes to workpass framework

This includes a new Overseas Network and Expertise Pass.

To better attract top talent in Singapore, the Ministry of Manpower (MOM) said it will make four enhancements to the workpass framework.

The changes include a new Overseas Networks & Expertise Pass --- a five-year work pass that allows holders " to concurrently start, operate, and work for multiple companies in Singapore at any one time."

The pass will be granted to applicants earning a fixed monthly salary of $30,000 and above, comparable to the top 5% of Employment Pass (EP) holders.

Individuals who fail to meet the salary criterion can still qualify for the pass if they have outstanding achievements across the arts and culture, sports, science and technology, and research and academia.

Application for the new work pass will open on 1 January 2023.

"Pass holders will not be subject to the Fair Consideration Framework (FCF) job advertising requirement and the upcoming Complementarity Assessment Framework (COMPASS). Pass holders will be asked to notify MOM annually of their professional activities, to ensure that they utilise the flexibilities accorded to contribute meaningfully," the MOM said.

MOM said it will also introduce a new benchmark pegged to the top 10% of employment pass (EP) holders, beginning 1 September 2023.

"EP applicants of this quality will continue to be exempted from the FCF job advertising requirement and the upcoming COMPASS. They will also continue to be eligible for the Personalised Employment Pass (PEP)," the MOM said.

The exemption bar for the FCF job advertising requirement and COMPASS will be raised to $22,500 from $20,000. The PEP salary criterion will also be raised to $22,500.

Starting 1 September, the FCF job advertising duration will also be restored to 14 days from 28 days.

Other changes to be introduced by MOM include faster feedback on EP applications, from three weeks to 10 business days; and the option of a five-year EP for experienced professionals filling specific tech occupations on the COMPASS Shortage Occupation List.

"A longer pass duration will give greater certainty to experienced tech professionals as well as businesses in their workforce planning, and allow Singapore to anchor tech capabilities while we develop our local pipeline," MOM said.

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