If you are considering a professional role in Singapore, you may hear an employer mention COMPASS. It is the points-based framework used to assess most Employment Pass applications.

The name stands for Complementarity Assessment Framework. It looks beyond the individual candidate and considers how the employer contributes to Singapore’s workforce too.

COMPASS in 30 seconds

  • It applies to most Employment Pass applications.
  • An application generally needs at least 40 COMPASS points.
  • Four foundational criteria assess the candidate and the employer.
  • Two bonus criteria may add points in eligible cases.
  • MOM makes the final decision after reviewing the complete application.

Employment Pass eligibility happens in two stages

COMPASS is important, but it is not the first or only test. Think of an Employment Pass application as having two stages.

Stage 1: Meet the Employment Pass qualifying salary

The candidate must first meet the qualifying salary for their age and sector. The required amount can change, so always check the latest MOM guidance rather than relying on an old figure.

Stage 2: Pass the COMPASS assessment

If the salary requirement is met, the application is then assessed through COMPASS unless an exemption applies. Most applications need a total of at least 40 points.

How the COMPASS points system works

The framework has four foundational criteria. Each can contribute 0, 10 or 20 points depending on how the application compares with the relevant benchmark.

Factors connected to the candidate

  • Salary: how the candidate’s pay compares with other professionals of a similar age in the same sector.
  • Qualifications: whether the candidate has recognised degree-equivalent or professional qualifications.

Factors connected to the employer

  • Nationality diversity: whether the candidate adds to the diversity of the employer’s professional workforce.
  • Support for local employment: how the employer’s share of local professional, managerial, executive and technical employees compares with others in its sector.

This is why a candidate cannot accurately calculate the final result from their résumé alone. Two employers offering the same person a similar role may have different company-level scores.

The two bonus criteria

An application may receive additional points when it supports skills or economic priorities that Singapore needs.

  • Skills bonus: this may apply when the role appears on the Shortage Occupation List and the relevant conditions are met.
  • Strategic Economic Priorities bonus: this may apply to eligible companies participating in selected programmes or activities that support Singapore’s economic goals.

A job title alone is not enough to assume a bonus applies. The employer should check the current occupation list and programme conditions.

Who may be exempt from COMPASS?

Some Employment Pass applications may not need to go through the points framework. Examples can include:

  • Candidates earning at or above MOM’s current exemption salary.
  • Qualifying overseas intra-corporate transferees under an applicable free trade agreement.
  • Short-term roles lasting one month or less.

An exemption from COMPASS is not an exemption from the Employment Pass itself. The employer must still submit the correct application and meet the applicable requirements.

What the application process looks like

  • The employer checks the qualifying salary and estimates the COMPASS result using MOM’s Self-Assessment Tool.
  • The employer identifies possible gaps and gathers the supporting documents.
  • The employer submits the Employment Pass application through MOM’s online service.
  • MOM may request verification or additional documents.
  • MOM assesses the complete application and informs the employer of its decision.

The candidate will usually need to provide accurate education, employment and identity documents. Respond quickly if the employer asks for further information.

What should you ask a prospective employer?

You may not have access to every company-level detail, but you can still ask useful questions before making relocation plans.

  • Does my salary meet the current Employment Pass requirement for my age and sector?
  • Has the company checked this role using MOM’s Self-Assessment Tool?
  • Does the role appear on the current Shortage Occupation List?
  • Are there any qualification documents that need third-party verification?
  • Who will manage the application and keep me updated?
  • What is the plan if MOM asks for additional documents or does not approve the application?

Are there other work or talent passes?

COMPASS is specifically connected to the Employment Pass. Other routes may suit particular circumstances.

  • EntrePass is intended for eligible founders building innovative or venture-backed businesses.
  • The Overseas Networks & Expertise Pass is designed for eligible top talent across sectors.
  • Other work passes may apply depending on the job, salary, qualifications and type of employment.

The Global Investor Programme is a permanent residence route for qualifying investors, not a standard work pass. Each route has separate criteria and should be assessed independently.

The bottom line

Do not focus only on reaching 40 points. First confirm that the role meets the Employment Pass salary requirement, then ask the employer to assess both the candidate-level and company-level COMPASS criteria.

Rules, salary thresholds, shortage occupations and documentary requirements can change. Check the latest Ministry of Manpower guidance before making employment or relocation decisions.

Where to verify: This article is general editorial information, not legal, immigration, medical or financial advice. Requirements can change. Check the relevant Singapore government agency or a qualified professional for advice about your situation.