In the face of global technological transformation and the rise of hard power, Singapore continues to accelerate its efforts to attract talent.
With a dual background in software and electronics technology, C submitted his EP application on July 14 and was approved just five days later, set to settle in Singapore.
This not only highlights the Ministry of Manpower’s (MOM) efficient approval process for hard tech talent but also reflects Singapore’s policy direction of “aggressively recruiting talent” in AI, semiconductors, and automation.
1. Another tech luminary lands in Singapore!
On July 14, C, who has extensive experience in technology research and development, officially submitted his EP application to the Singapore Ministry of Manpower (MOM). Just five working days later, on July 19, the application was successfully approved, enabling C to settle in Singapore.
This approval efficiency far exceeds the norm. According to the MOM website, online EP applications typically take 10 working days or less to process, while applications through local sponsorship may take up to eight weeks.
Photo: C successfully approved for Singapore EP; unauthorized use of this image will be prosecuted!
This success represents a high level of recognition of C’s professional capabilities and personal qualifications. For Singapore, it further demonstrates its priority support for high-end tech talent.
Singapore has recently launched initiatives like Tech@SG to support tech talent, actively attracting high-level professionals with hard tech backgrounds. As evidenced by MOM’s announcement that “Starting September 2023, tech talent with extensive experience and rare skills may apply for a longer-term five-year EP,” the policy orientation has become increasingly clear.
2. Software Engineering + Electronics Technology Dual Background: Hard Tech Remains Singapore’s Golden Track!
Mr. C possesses a dual disciplinary background in software engineering and electronics technology, aligning perfectly with Singapore’s current “hard technology” strategic layout. According to MOM’s Key Facts, the initial approval for an EP is typically for three years, but for experienced technology talent, it can be extended to three years, or even five years (for shortage talent lists).
Source: MOM, Lianhe Zaobao
3. Professional team provides full support
After submitting the EP application on July 14, C-level executive received approval in just five working days. This efficient process was made possible through the collaborative efforts of the company’s human resources department, a professional immigration team, and the MOM system.
According to the latest official announcement from MOM:
Online applications (EP eService) are typically approved or receive processing updates within 10 working days;
For overseas companies with local sponsors, approval may take up to 8 weeks;
Through the COMPASS quantitative system assessment and reasonable salary matching, hard technology talent often qualifies for expedited approval and long-term visas.
Mr. C’s application team ensured the following two points in document preparation:
Complete Stage 1 & 2 documents: Ensure monthly salary, job description, educational qualifications, and prior project experience align with COMPASS requirements;
Align with the technology sector: Highlight the rarity and technical contributions in algorithm development and hardware control systems to enhance persuasiveness.
After receiving the IPA letter, C swiftly completed entry preparations, medical examinations, and visa activation. Upon arrival, he only needed to collect the card via EP eService or at the MOM Service Center, without additional procedures.
The EP card is typically delivered within a few days, with the entire process proceeding smoothly.
【Conclusion】C’s successful arrival highlights the following points:
Singapore is intensifying its “hard tech” strategy: professionals with a background in both software and electronics are currently in the most favored phase of the policy;
MOM approvals are efficient, transparent, and flexible: online EP applications are generally approved within 10 working days, and tech talent may be eligible for a five-year long-term visa;
Professional teams assist with precise operations: pre-screening of materials, COMPASS penetration, and policy alignment ensure a streamlined and smooth process.
For professionals with hard tech capabilities, C’s experience serves as a valuable model: focusing on professional expertise, ensuring reasonable compensation, and leveraging professional support teams are key to swiftly securing entry qualifications in the STEM field, enabling talent to contribute to Singapore’s tech ecosystem and inject new energy into its local tech landscape.