Singapore announced that minimum qualifying salaries for both S Pass and Employment Pass (EP) holders will increase starting January 2027, as part of changes unveiled in its Budget 2026 speech. Employers are being urged to prepare for higher wage costs for foreign professionals and mid-skill workers under the updated foreign workforce policy.
Singapore raises S Pass, EP salary
Under the revised framework, the minimum qualifying salary for S Pass holders will rise to S$3,600 from S$3,300, while salaries for Employment Pass applicants will increase to S$6,000 from S$5,600 for most sectors. Financial services roles will see even higher thresholds to reflect sector wage norms.
Singapore’s government said the changes aim to ensure Singaporeans remain at the centre of the workforce while still allowing companies to attract skilled foreign talent. Businesses will need to adjust manpower strategies and budget for increased payroll costs ahead of implementation.
