Singapore to Raise Minimum Salary for Foreign Workers

Singapore is increasing the salary requirement for foreign workers applying for the S Pass, which is a work permit for skilled workers like technicians and associate professionals. Currently, the salary needed is $3,150, with increases based on age, up to $4,650 for those 45 and older. From September 2025, the salary threshold for new applications will go up to $3,300, and for renewals, it will increase to $3,300 by September 2026.

For jobs in the financial services sector, the current threshold is $3,650, increasing to $5,650 for workers aged 45 and above. The new proposed salary for financial services will be $3,800 for new applicants from September 2025.

Additionally, from September 2025, the S Pass levy (the fee employers pay for hiring foreign workers) will rise from $550 to $650 for the basic tier, while the second tier levy remains the same at $650.

The purpose of these changes is to ensure that foreign workers on the S Pass meet the salary standards of the top one-third of local professionals and technicians in Singapore.