What is the Complementarity Assessment (COMPASS) Framework?
The COMPASS framework, known as the Complementarity Assessment, aims to support employers in choosing highly skilled foreign professionals by enhancing clarity and confidence in their workforce planning.
By employing a system based on points, businesses can make well-informed decisions about the qualifications and suitability of prospective candidates.
In addition to meeting the required salary criteria, applicants for the Employment Pass (EP) must successfully navigate through this newly introduced framework.
When Will COMPASS Take Effect?
COMPASS will be implemented as per the following schedule:
- New applications: Commencing from September 1, 2023.
- Renewal applications: Commencing from September 1, 2024.
How is COMPASS Carried Out?
COMPASS functions by assessing EP applications using a wide range of factors that apply to both individuals and companies.
Applications are assigned points based on four primary criteria, depending on whether they exceed, meet, or fall below expectations:
- Exceeds expectations: 20 points
- Meets expectations: 10 points
- Falls below expectations: 0 points
Bonus criteria are also in place, providing additional points to applications that possess sought-after skills or contribute to key economic priorities, thereby generating valuable job opportunities for Singaporeans.
What Are the Criteria for Passing COMPASS?
To pass COMPASS, applicants must:
- Achieve a minimum score of 40 points; and
- Meet expectations on all primary criteria
If an applicant falls short of the required points, they can make up the difference by exceeding expectations or earning bonus points.
What Are the Exceptions to COMPASS?
Applicants are not required to go through COMPASS if they meet any of the following criteria:
- Earn a minimum fixed monthly salary of S$22,500.
- Apply as a foreign intra-company transferee under the General Agreement on Trade in Services (GATS) of the World Trade Organization (WTO) or the relevant Free Trade Agreement (FTA).
- Take on a temporary position for a short duration, such as one month.
