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From higher sector-specific salary benchmarks to revised qualification and shortage occupation lists, key changes under Singapore’s COMPASS framework are now in effect, with implications for new EP applications and upcoming renewals.
Starting 1 January 2026, significant updates to Singapore’s Complementarity Assessment Framework (COMPASS) will apply to new Employment Pass (EP) applications, with renewals affected from 1 July 2026. Announced by the Ministry of Manpower (MOM), the changes span salary benchmarks, recognised qualifications, and the Shortage Occupation List (SOL).
Below is a summary of what is changing, and why it matters for employers.
C1: Sector-specific salary benchmarks tightened
Under the COMPASS C1 salary criterion, points are awarded based on whether an EP candidate’s fixed monthly salary meets the relevant salary benchmarks for local PMETs in the same sector. To score points, the salary must meet at least the 65th percentile of local PMET wages for that sector.
MOM updates these benchmarks annually to reflect labour market conditions. The latest set of benchmarks will apply to new EP applications submitted from 1 January 2026, and to renewals for passes expiring on or after 1 July 2026.
Salary benchmarks vary by sector and age group, with required salaries increasing as candidates get older. Employers whose offers fall below the benchmark will not receive COMPASS points under C1, which could affect the overall outcome of an EP application.
C2: Updated education qualification lists
MOM has refreshed the COMPASS C2 qualification lists, with updates taking effect from 1 January 2026. Released in November 2025, the changes cover top-tier institutions and degree-equivalent professional qualifications.
EP candidates with a bachelor’s degree or higher from eligible top-tier institutions will continue to receive 20 points. Group A institutions qualify across all faculties, while only specified faculties qualify for Group B institutions. Employers must select the correct institution and faculty in the EP application.
Certain professional qualifications are also recognised as degree-equivalent and earn 10 points under C2, subject to verification documents being submitted with the EP application.
C5: Changes to the Shortage Occupation List (SOL)
MOM has also updated the SOL and released a new employer guide on using SOL bonus points and, for eligible tech roles, qualifying for a five-year EP.
Employers must ensure job duties and titles match the relevant SOL role and meet all occupation-specific requirements, including qualifications, work experience and registration where required. The revised list adds two healthcare occupations and removes roles such as Cyber Risk Specialist, Cybersecurity Operations Specialist, and Product Manager (Digital). Eligible candidates can earn up to 20 bonus points under C5.
According to KPMG, with the updates, "employers might anticipate greater compliance requirements by integrating these changes into their talent acquisition and renewal strategies at an early stage." The revised salary benchmarks may also prompt the need for a comprehensive review of existing compensation structure, while the updated qualification lists will "demand more rigorous credential verification processes."
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