What is a Training Employment Pass?

Current rules: checked 7 September 2026

This article was originally published on 2023-11-10. The update below supersedes the original pass requirements and salary figures.

Training and short-term passes

A Training Employment Pass is valid for up to three months and is not renewable. A Training Work Permit is valid for up to six months and is subject to the relevant quota and levy. A Miscellaneous Work Pass covers specified activities for up to 60 days. These schemes have different eligibility rules; a visitor cannot start work or practical training simply because an application is pending. Read the current guide.

Sources: the linked current guides cite the relevant Ministry of Manpower eligibility and application pages.

Original article, retained for historical reference

Historical content: The original text below is not current application guidance. Use the dated update above.

If you’re a foreign national seeking an internship or training opportunity in Singapore, you’ll require what is commonly known as a Singapore internship visa, officially referred to as a Training Employment Pass (TEP). Issued by the Ministry of Manpower, the TEP enables foreign nationals to undergo practical training for professional, managerial, executive, or specialist roles within a Singaporean company.

Who Qualifies for the Training Employment Pass?

To be eligible for the TEP, you must fall into one of the following categories:
– A student currently enrolled in an approved educational institution.
– A trainee from a foreign office or subsidiary company undergoing training in a Singaporean entity.

Additionally, you must meet the following criteria:
– Maintain a monthly salary of at least S$3,000.
– Be associated with a well-established and Singapore-registered company.
– If you’re a student, the training must be an integral part of your ongoing course of study.

How to Obtain a Singapore Internship Visa?

The process involves your Singapore employer applying for your Training Employment Pass, divided into three key stages:

1. Applying for the Training Employment Pass:

– Your employer applies online, requiring your Letter of Consent to submit the application on your behalf.
– If approved, the In-Principle Approval (IPA) letter is printed, serving as a pre-approved single-entry visa for your entry within six months.
– Processing time is typically three weeks, potentially extended based on additional document requirements.

2. Required Documents for the Training Employment Pass:

– Photocopies of your passport’s personal details page.
– Recent passport-size photo complying with Singaporean standards.
– Comprehensive training program details, including objectives, type, duration, and location.
– Your educational certificates and, if from India, additional documents like transcripts and marksheets.
– Letters from your school confirming enrollment and stating the training’s relevance to your course.
– Verification of educational certificates through agencies like Dataflow or other global verification agencies.
– Specific documents for applicants from China, including verification from relevant agencies.

3. Requesting for the Pass to be Issued:

– After entering with the IPA letter, your employer can request Pass issuance online.
– The notification letter is printed, allowing travel while awaiting the Pass Card and specifying registration requirements.

4. Documents for Pass Issuance:

– Current Short Term Visit Pass/immigration pass information.
– Proof of accommodation in Singapore.
– Designated delivery address for the Pass Card.
– Disembarkation/Embarkation card.
– Evidence of completed medical examination.

5. Registering Your Fingerprints and Pictures:

– If required, register at the Employment Pass Services Centre (EPSC) within two weeks of entry.
– Bring essential documents, including passport, appointment and notification letters, and any specified documents.

Upon completing the registration process, you should receive your Training Employment Pass Card within four working days.

Understanding and following these steps ensures a seamless process for obtaining a Training Employment Pass in Singapore.

If you have any company-related queries, you may email us at [email protected]. When in doubt, seek legal advice or consult an experienced licensed Employment Agency with the Ministry of Manpower.

Yours Sincerely,
The editorial team at Singapore Employment Agency

For more useful articles and videos, visit the Singapore Employment Agency resource page.
If you would like to submit a question or would like us to do an article on certain topics, please email us at [email protected].

Little Big Employment Agency Pte Ltd is a licensed Employment Agency with the Ministry of Manpower with license number 19C9790.