EP Questions

[vince_kewell]

Hi all,

It's been 2 weeks since the day my company submitted my EP application and I've yet to receive any response from them.

My question is, can I go to Johor Bahru during this weekend if I'm holding a long term social visit pass that is valid for 6 months? Will it affect my EP application (get rejected) ?

[sundaymorningstaple]

You are okay as long as your LTSVP is a multiple entry visa. Otherwise, you might be up the proverbial creek........

[vince_kewell]

Thanks alot for confirming sms.

Somehow, it often comes across my mind that by going in and out of Singapore to Johor Bahru would affect my EP application since they are able to see how often you do that and also ICA's system is linked to MOM's anyway. Or am I being oversensitive?

[sundaymorningstaple]

Bit over-sensitive I'd say. It's only when you have been here for months on end and doing a Visa Run (normal tourist type) every two weeks that they start to get antsy. You'll be fine. I doubt that they expect you to be a hermit while waiting. With a Multiple Entry Visa it no problem.

sms

[cyberpal]

Hi All

I am an Indian having a job offer from a start-up in Singapore.
I have done my Masters for a premier institute in India (IIT) and am working for a top IT MNC since past 8 months.

The company has already applied for the EP, but I wish to know the factors considered while granting a EP:

1. How much weightage is given to the company's profile applying for a EP?

2. How much impact does your work experience have on EP? I have 8 months of work ex in a co. of Microsoft / Google fame.

3. I wish to work in a start-up so that I leverage my entrepreneur skills in the IT Industry. However I am worried if the EP wil be granted to me to work in a small company.

What are my chances of getting an EP given the above mentioned facts?

Any response on the same would be highly appreciated.

Thanks for your time.

[muratkorman]

Hi All

1. How much weightage is given to the company's profile applying for a EP?

I think they check the ratio of employees, local against foreigner should be around 3 to 1. It is just to avoid stacking foreigners and not giving chance to local talent. If the company is a big one, it is very rare not to get EP approved as they have good connections with MOM. But for small companies, they will check these ratios and availability of local talent.

2. How much impact does your work experience have on EP? I have 8 months of work ex in a co. of Microsoft / Google fame.

They expect that you add value to Singapore workforce with your experience. In field where there is lack of talent, you are likely to get your EP without any problem. In fields where local talent is available, it depends on the reputation of the company. In your case, your experience is still beginner level as 8 months is not a big deal, but if your curriculum indicates these 8 months well, you should have a chance.

3. I wish to work in a start-up so that I leverage my entrepreneur skills in the IT Industry. However I am worried if the EP wil be granted to me to work in a small company.

You will be granted to work for the company which applies for you. I don't understand what you really mean in this question.

[Strong Eagle]

Hi All

1. How much weightage is given to the company's profile applying for a EP?

It has less to do with the company's profile and a lot more to do with the job description you are being hired for and how you meet the necessary qualifications. MOM has a pretty good idea if the qualifications are available locally (especially for lower passes).

I think they check the ratio of employees, local against foreigner should be around 3 to 1. It is just to avoid stacking foreigners and not giving chance to local talent. If the company is a big one, it is very rare not to get EP approved as they have good connections with MOM. But for small companies, they will check these ratios and availability of local talent.

There is no local workforce quota for EP (P1, P2, Q1). There is a quota for S pass which is no more than 15 percent of total workforce.

2. How much impact does your work experience have on EP? I have 8 months of work ex in a co. of Microsoft / Google fame.

They expect that you add value to Singapore workforce with your experience. In field where there is lack of talent, you are likely to get your EP without any problem. In fields where local talent is available, it depends on the reputation of the company. In your case, your experience is still beginner level as 8 months is not a big deal, but if your curriculum indicates these 8 months well, you should have a chance.

Work experience counts a lot, especially if you have a run of the mill degree or certification. Specialized work experience counts even more. Especially in the world of IT.

3. I wish to work in a start-up so that I leverage my entrepreneur skills in the IT Industry. However I am worried if the EP wil be granted to me to work in a small company.

Company size has less to do with it than their ability to explain the specialized skills needed and why you are the guy that is needed. If you are relying upon an MSCE and 8 months generic MS Windows experience it would be tough. If you have specialized knowledge and experience (Novell, AD, security) that matches with the stated objectives of the company you have a better chance.

You will be granted to work for the company which applies for you. I don't understand what you really mean in this question.

[cyberpal]

Thanks a tonne for answering my queries.

[cydonia]

Hi Vince Kewell, have you got your EP yet?