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Singapore Visa Guide

For International Tech Professionals

Singapore is Southeast Asia's leading financial and tech powerhouse. It offers a highly structured, points-based work permit system evaluating candidates on credentials, salary, and diversity.

Avg Tech Salary

SGD $6,500–$11,000/month

Cost of Living

High (135/100)

Residency Pathway

Difficult

Work Visa Pathways

Employment Pass (EP)

⏱ 3–8 weeks📅 Up to 2 years (renewable)

The standard work visa for skilled professionals. Applications are evaluated under the COMPASS points-based system.

Salary ThresholdSGD $5,600/month (scales up with age; tech benchmark is higher)

PR (Permanent Residency) PathwayEligible to apply for Permanent Residency (PR) after 6 months, though approvals are highly selective

Tech.Pass

⏱ 1–2 months📅 2 years (renewable)

An exclusive visa for elite tech founders, leaders, and technical experts. Bypasses the need for company sponsorship.

Salary ThresholdSGD $22,500/month

PR (Permanent Residency) PathwayDirect Pathway Available

Relocation Cost Estimates

Expense Item	Estimated Cost
MOM EP Application Processing Fee	SGD $105
EP Card Issuance Fee	SGD $225
Visa Medical Exam (if required)	SGD $50–$80

Essential Tips for Relocation

Personal tax rates in Singapore are extremely low (0% to 22%), resulting in very high take-home pay.

Under the COMPASS system, holding a degree from a top university or filling a critical shortage role (e.g. Cybersecurity, AI) grants substantial points.

Housing rental is very expensive. Factor this carefully into your salary negotiations.

English is the working language, and the city is exceptionally clean, safe, and connected to all of Asia.

Ready to find a tech job in Singapore?

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