From September 1st, 2023, companies in Singapore that wish to hire foreigners on an Employment Pass (EP) will need to verify their educational qualifications using the Complementarity Assessment Framework (COMPASS) to ensure their authenticity, according to the Ministry of Manpower (MOM).
Employers will be required to submit third-party verification proof for applicants with diploma-level qualifications and above.
What is Complementarity Assessment Framework (COMPASS)?
The Complementarity Assessment Framework (COMPASS) is a system used in Singapore to evaluate applications for an Employment Pass (EP).
It awards points based on four attributes and two bonus criteria, including educational qualifications, salary, nationality diversity of the firm, and the company’s support for local employment.
The system aims to ensure that EP applications meet certain criteria and are not fraudulent.
What does this mean for employers of foreign manpower in Singapore?
Employers will be required to submit third-party verification proof for applicants with diploma-level qualifications and above.
The Complementarity Assessment Framework (COMPASS) will enforce this requirement, awarding points to EP applications based on four attributes and two bonus criteria. Educational qualifications are one of the attributes, and a degree-equivalent qualification earns 10 points, while qualifications from a “top-tier institution” can earn 20 points.
If points are not needed under qualifications, employers do not need to submit verification. The verification requirement will take effect in September for new applications, while for EP renewal applications, it will take effect in September 2024.
The Employment of Foreign Manpower Act Seminar (HRLAW® EFMA)
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Our expert speaker will provide insights into the legal framework and practical considerations for hiring foreign workers in Singapore.
The seminar will include more about COMPASS as well.
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