Singapore’s Ministry of Manpower (MOM) has announced refinements to the Complementarity Assessment (COMPASS) framework from January 1, 2026. The changes will affect how employment pass (EP) applications are scored. They will apply to all new and renewal EP applications filed on or after this date, and will focus on two key components that many employers rely on to secure a passing COMPASS score: Criterion 2 (C2) – “Qualifications” and Criterion 5 (C5) – “Skills Bonus via the Shortage Occupation List (SOL)”.
Updated Qualification & Institution Lists (COMPASS C2)
MOM has refreshed the lists that determine whether a candidate’s qualifications earn 10 or 20 points under C2. From January 1, 2026:
Top-tier institutions (20 points)
The list of “top-tier” institutions continues to be split into:
- Group A – all faculties qualify for 20 points
- Group B – only specified faculties qualify for 20 points
Employers must select both the institution and correct faculty/field in the EP form. A mismatch can result in no C2 points, even if the institution is listed.
Degree-equivalent and professional qualifications (10 points)
MOM has expanded the list of professional and degree-equivalent qualifications that can earn 10 points, especially in technical, engineering, hospitality, and applied science fields. Many of these are aligned to international qualification frameworks at a degree-equivalent level.
Notable trends in the 2026 refresh
- Broader coverage of technical, marine, design and applied disciplines.
- Increased recognition of regional and Singapore-based technical/creative schools as their standing grows.
- Some institutions have shifted between Group A and Group B, while others have moved from 20-point recognition to 10-point “degree-equivalent” status, or have been removed.
- If a candidate’s institution or programme no longer appears on (or has moved within) the updated lists, they may lose C2 points and will need stronger scores under other COMPASS criteria to maintain overall eligibility.
Revised Shortage Occupation List (SOL) – COMPASS C5
MOM has also updated the Shortage Occupation List (SOL), which provides up to 20 bonus points under Criterion 5 (Skills Bonus) and, for certain technology roles, can support a five-year EP validity. Key changes include:
- Introduction of new healthcare-related roles, reflecting sustained demand in the sector.
- Removal of several roles from the SOL, including:
- Cyber Risk Specialist
- Cybersecurity Operations Specialist
- Product Manager (Digital)
To benefit from C5 bonus points, employers must ensure:
- The job scope and responsibilities clearly align with MOM’s description of the chosen SOL occupation.
- The EP job title is consistent with the MyCareersFuture (MCF) posting (unless the role is exempt from advertising).
- All occupation-specific conditions (such as minimum experience, particular qualifications, sectoral registrations or licences) are fully met and supported with documentation.
Updated Self-Assessment Tool (SAT)
MOM’s Self-Assessment Tool (SAT) has been updated so employers can model COMPASS outcomes under the new rules:
- The revised C2 qualification parameters are already reflected in SAT.
- The updated Shortage Occupation List will also be reflected ahead of the 1 January 2026 effective date, allowing pre-checks for SOL-aligned roles.
Existing EP holders are not affected for their current pass term by the SOL changes; however, the new lists and scoring will apply when their EPs are renewed on or after 1 January 2026.
At Newland Chase Singapore, we are closely monitoring these updates and supporting employers in navigating their impact. For any assistance with Singapore immigration matters, you may reach us at [email protected].
This immigration update is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for legal or scenario-specific advice. Furthermore, it is important to note that immigration announcements are subject to sudden and unexpected changes. Readers are encouraged to reach out to Newland Chase for any case- or company-specific assessments.
