As part of our APAC Spotlight series, we round up the latest developments across the region. In this post, we look at the recent updates to Singapore’s COMPASS framework introduced by the Ministry of Manpower (MoM).
The Ministry of Manpower (MOM) has released the latest C1 Salary Benchmarks by Sector, which will apply to new Employment Pass (EP) applications from 1 January 2027 and EP renewals from 1 July 2027. While periodic benchmark updates form part of the COMPASS framework, the latest revisions differ considerably across sectors and may have broader implications for workforce planning, remuneration strategies and future EP eligibility.
The salary benchmark forms the first category of COMPASS, C1, Salary. Under C1, the candidate’s monthly fixed salary must meet or exceed the 65th percentile of local Professionals, Managers, Executives and Technicians (PMETs) by sector and age group.
The benchmark table provided by the Ministry of Manpower reflects both the minimum salary thresholds for respective sectors to earn 10 and 20 points under the C1 Salary criterion. These changes should also be taken into consideration together with the upcoming increases to the EP qualifying salary, which will be take effect from 01 January 2027 for new applications and 01 January 2028 for renewals, respectively.
The minimum qualifying salary and COMPASS benchmarks will be reviewed periodically to ensure they remain aligned with Singapore’s prevailing market conditions. Employers are expected to proactively plan their resources to keep pace with the changes.
For more information on the above or any assistance you require on global immigration matters, please do not hesitate to contact Rachel.ang@magrath.sg or hazimah@magrath.sg.
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