3 Steps for Work Permit to get a PR

Work Pass
Education

As a Work Permit holder, you probably already know that you cannot apply for a Permanent Resident in Singapore. But, don’t be disheartened!

We have mapped out a solution that could potentially help you overcome this barrier and attain your PR. The key is to upgrade to an SP/ EP to meet the minimum eligibility for your PR application. Read on as we explain how Kenneth & Co. can guide you on this journey!

1. Understand why you shouldn’t stay as a Work Permit

Do you find yourself dealing with problems such as; low income, long working hours, and instability in your career?

Don’t worry! To break out of this cycle, it is as easy as it sounds – all you need is to upgrade your work pass to an E-Pass or S-Pass to meet the basic eligibility for a PR application. Not only can you get a secure higher income and increase stability, but you may also even be able to switch out of your current industry and get a PR in Singapore.

So what is the difference between an EP and an SP?  

Here’s a table we have prepared for you to understand the distinct difference between them.

Table 1.0 (As of 2023)

With a recognized graduate/diploma certificate, you may be able to upgrade yourself to an S-Pass at a starting salary of $1700. *Please note that this may vary for different candidates based on your nationalities, experiences, length of stay in Singapore, type of job, etc. For more information, do speak to our consultants*

2. Decide if you should upgrade to an EP/SP

So you must be thinking, how do I decide then? Easy! First, you’ll need to understand the climate of the workforce for our SP and EP holders.

To receive an S Pass approval, you will be required to meet the quota in your relevant company and have a qualifying salary. Currently, if you are working in the service sector, the S Pass quota is 10%. In simple terms, for every 10 local employees, 1 foreign employee is granted an S-Pass. However, for sectors such as the Manufacturing, Construction, and Marine shipyard sectors, the quota has been reduced to 15% in 2023. That said, with high competition, you could consider upgrading to an EP too. Unlike an SP, there is no levy or quota required for EP holders. Therefore with our KAC new pilot program, you could gain newly acquired skills to fill the talent shortage in some sectors as Singapore has an increasing need for E-Pass holders to bridge skills gaps and supply shortages. *Sign up below to receive a free consultation to access your current situation.*

3. Find out what is required to upgrade yourself

Now that you have understood the importance of levelling upyour work pass status, here comes the most crucial part of the question!

(A)  How do I upgrade my work pass?

Well, this is easy! All you have to do is to bring your education level beyond SPM and upskill to gain relevant work experience in the industry you are keen in. By doing so, not only will you be able to remain relevant to the industry, but you could also potentially open many doors of opportunities.

We encourage you to use the Self-Assessment Tool (SAT) to get an indication of whether an applicant meets the requirements. Candidates can also use the tool to assess their eligibility.

As you know by now, skillsets and education level are high-value qualities in the Singapore workforce. Certifications are necessary for you to ascend your career and gain opportunities.

Without them, your employer will be unable to grant you promotions, higher salaries, and upgrade your work permit.

While your SPM certification may have opened the door to establishing your career in Singapore, more importantly, you are required for you to advance.

(B)  Our Pioneer Solutions

If you are unsure about the type of certificate and courses you should acquire, worry not because we have a solution for you!

Kenneth & Co have partnered with a Top University in Malaysia to produce an exclusive program for work permits holders just like you.

Not only are there a wide array of Graduate courses ranging from managerial (Business Management, Engineering Management etc.) to technical (Occupational Safety & Health etc.), but the lessons are all conducted online and at your own pace.

This way, you can upgrade yourself without having to compromise on your career! What is the next step in your roadmap to PR after achieving better qualifications? Sign up below to find more with 1-1 consultations with our Immigration consultants.

Final Thoughts

Now that you know what is required to be eligible to apply for PR, it is time to make the call. While the journey seems arduous, we assure you it will be worth it. After all, there are no shortcuts to success.

Book an appointment with us now to check out if you are eligible for our program.

Disclaimer: All information is true as of time of publish in Jan 2024, information and data may change beyond this date. For most updated information, always refer to relevant site before making decisions. Kenneth & Co disclaims any liability for any harm caused by using the information provided.

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Ready to begin your immigration and work pass journey? Escape the 75% PR rejection rate. Partner with us to secure your PR, explore overseas work, and upgrade your work pass seamlessly. Act now to unlock a future of opportunities—saving time and money.