What is the Basic Salary for Foreigners in Singapore in 2025?

Singapore continues to be a prime destination for global talent, with businesses actively seeking foreign professionals. For small business owners considering hiring expatriates or foreign workers exploring career prospects, understanding the basic salary requirements for foreigners in Singapore is essential. Efficient payroll management and compliance with salary regulations are crucial for smooth business operations.

Minimum Salary Requirements for Foreigners in Singapore

Singapore’s Ministry of Manpower (MOM) sets minimum salary thresholds for various work passes to promote fair employment practices and maintain a balanced labour market. These requirements apply specifically to foreigners seeking employment in Singapore. Employers must structure their payroll systems in accordance with these guidelines to ensure compliance.

1. Employment Pass (EP) Salary Criteria for Foreign Professionals

The Employment Pass (EP) is intended for foreign professionals, managers, and executives. As of 1 January 2025, the minimum qualifying salaries for foreign applicants are:

• All Sectors (except Financial Services): A fixed monthly salary starting from S$5,600, increasing progressively with age, up to S$10,700 at age 45 and above.
• Financial Services Sector: A fixed monthly salary starting from S$6,200, increasing progressively with age, up to S$11,800 at age 45 and above.

These thresholds are designed to be comparable to the top one-third of local PMET (Professionals, Managers, Executives, and Technicians) salaries. (MOM)

2. S Pass Salary Criteria for Foreign Mid-Skilled Workers

The S Pass is designed for mid-skilled foreign employees. Effective from 1 September 2025, the minimum qualifying salaries for foreign applicants are:

• All Sectors (except Financial Services): At least S$3,300 per month.
• Financial Services Sector: At least S$3,800 per month.

Older foreign candidates will continue to require higher salaries to qualify. The finalised qualifying salaries will be announced closer to the implementation date, based on prevailing local APT (Associate Professionals and Technicians) wages. (MOM)

✅Payroll giving you headaches? From calculations to tax deposits, our in-house team handles everything. See how we simplify payroll here.

3. Work Permit Salary Guidelines for Foreign Workers

There is no fixed minimum salary for foreign Work Permit holders. However, employers must adhere to sector-specific wage requirements and provide fair compensation. The Local Qualifying Salary (LQS), which determines the number of local employees who can be used to calculate a firm’s Work Permit and S Pass quota entitlement, is currently S$1,600. (MOM)

3. Key Salary Trends and Considerations for Foreign Workers in 2025

• Cost of Living Adjustments: Rising living costs in Singapore necessitate offering competitive salaries to attract and retain foreign talent.
• Industry-Specific Compensation: High-demand sectors such as technology, finance, and healthcare often offer salaries exceeding minimum requirements for foreign professionals.
• Fair Hiring Practices: Ensuring equitable pay between local and foreign employees promotes a fair and inclusive work environment.

Summary

The basic salary for foreigners in Singapore depends on the type of work pass and the individual’s qualifications. Employers must stay informed about salary regulations affecting foreign employees to remain compliant and competitive in attracting global talent. Staying updated on evolving wage trends and payroll regulations will help businesses navigate Singapore’s dynamic job market effectively.

Complete Payroll Management Service

Don’t let payroll complexity slow you down. Our team handles everything—from employee payments to tax deposits and filings. We manage compliance deadlines, calculate withholdings, and ensure timely payments. Plus, your payroll seamlessly syncs with your books.

Unlike firms that outsource to third-party providers, we handle your payroll in-house. Get expert support and direct access to your Customer Success Manager via SMS for any questions.

Ready to get started? Chat with us now, email [email protected], or use our  contact form.

Here are some articles you might find helpful:

Overcoming Procrastination: A Guide for Small Business Owners in Singapore

Unlocking the Power of APIs: How Small Businesses in Singapore Can Benefit

Letter of Consent vs. Employment Pass in Singapore