Singapore

What changed

The Ministry of Manpower (MOM) in Singapore has made big improvements to the Primary Care Plan (PCP) for migrant workers. These changes start on 1 April 2027. Four new main operators, called Anchor Operators, will now provide primary healthcare services. New annual fees, called capitation rates, mean that healthcare costs will be lower or the same for almost all employers. The improved PCP also sets a standard $5 payment, called a co-payment, for both visits to a clinic and video calls with a doctor (telemedicine). It aims to make clinics easier to reach. There will also be a central online system, an enrolment portal, for employers to use.

What changed

Singapore's Ministry of Manpower (MOM) has changed the qualifying salary rules for Employment Pass (EP) applications. They have also updated the Complementarity Assessment Framework (COMPASS) scoring system. These changes start immediately for new EP applications. They will start later for renewals.

What changed

The U.S. Department of State keeps Singapore at its Level 1 Travel Advisory. This advice tells U.S. citizens to take normal safety steps. This is because Singapore is generally safe for travellers. It means the travel risk for Singapore has not changed.

What changed

Singapore has updated its Shortage Occupation List (SOL) under the Complementarity Assessment Framework (COMPASS) for Employment Pass (EP) applications. The current SOL applies to new and renewal Employment Pass applications from 1 January 2026. It identifies occupations where Singapore has a shortage of skilled workers. Candidates working in listed occupations can receive bonus points under COMPASS C5, and eligible technology professionals may qualify for a 5-year Employment Pass.

What changed

Singapore has made clear the rules for renewing the Overseas Networks & Expertise Pass (ONE Pass). This includes the salary proof that pass holders must provide when they apply for another five years. The ONE Pass is a personalised work permit for top talent in areas like business, arts, culture, sports, academic work, and research. To renew the pass, the pass holder must meet one of two conditions: * They must have earned an average fixed monthly salary of at least S$30,000 in Singapore over the previous five years; or * They must set up and run a company based in Singapore that employs at least five local staff. Each of these staff must earn at least the current minimum salary for an Employment Pass. The guidance also explains what proof is needed to show salary. If applicants are using employment income, the Ministry of Manpower (MOM) needs salary documents for the relevant time. This includes payslips and, if it applies, tax documents or proof of other income. This guidance mostly makes clearer how the existing renewal rules are checked and proved. It does not create a completely new way to qualify for the ONE Pass.