True benefits of EPEC

[cafecafe]

A friend thinks of applying for EPEC .
Should he or should he not?
Ant there REAL benefits in gaining employment by having the EPEC?
Feedback appreciated.

[sundaymorningstaple]

NO.

The EPEC ONLY allows the job seeker to know that he will not be rejected because of HIS qualifications.

It does not mean that the EP will be granted however. This depends also on the company applying for the EP. They also have to justify the reason that they want to hire a foreigner instead of a local. If you have a common plentiful degree then, while you might be qualified, the MOM might not grant the employer the Pass as they can hire a local just as easily.

sms

[Strong Eagle]

The only possible benefit you might have with an EPEC is that you could stay in Singapore up to one year to look for a job... but you cannot work... and if you do find a job, the company must apply for an employment pass... which as SMS noted, is not guaranteed.

So, look at it this way. If your friend could qualify for a P1 EP then the chances of getting the EP would be quite high. A P2, not as high, and a Q1 pass, harder still, but not impossible.

[cafecafe]

Thanks!

My friend got a degree - imo he might as well do a few border runs as opposed to the hassle (may be) involved in obtaining the EPEC.

[sundaymorningstaple]

It's not that big of a hassle at all. Have him do the online checker to see if he will qualify for it. If he does, have him give it a try. Doesn't hurt.

http://www.mom.gov.sg/publish/momportal ... icate.html

[wcs]

I would just add on that locals are not meant to rent an apartment to a person without a valid residency permit, so the EPEC lets you get a roof over your head too as you look for a job.

But if you have friends here then it is not that big a deal!

[connecticket]

hi..

I didn't deem it necessary to start a new thread for this....I am currently planning to apply for the EPEC..I got in touch with a consultant here who said he'd be willing to help me through the process for a fee of S$600....I felt it was a little too much...so my query is - is the application process so complex that i'd need a consultant or is it something I can manage doing myself?

thanks,
connecticket

[sundaymorningstaple]

Anybody with a modicum of common sense can fill it out as good as paying someone to do it. Additionally, it's so easy, I'd have to wonder about the capabilities of the person if the couldn't do it on their own. Now applying for Landed PR is a different kettle of Fish and you almost need an authorized agent to do that (but even then it's not that hard as long as all the t's are crossed and the i's are dotted).

sms

[connecticket]

thanks sms...yeah until I'd seen the form I wasn't sure what information it would require...I've submitted it myself.....

[muhammadnoman01]

Hello Sms
I am looking to relocate to singapore, I have the qualification which is in demand in singapore i.e ACCA and a UK bachelors degree
what do u suggest, should I get EPEC and arrive there over LTSVP or should I apply for LPR
what increase more chances to get the job
EPEC is easy and free while LPR demands six month time and S$1500
ur advice will be appreciated

[sundaymorningstaple]

If you are an ACCA, then try to get an EPEC. I would caution you that, while they are hiring accountants (especially those with financials as well), it's harder for a foreigner to get hired as there are literally thousands of well qualified locals here with similar qualifications. This, coupled with the current tightening up of the 'foreign talent' influx will make it very hard, but not impossible, especially if you have niche experience that is in short supply. Otherwise, if possible, I wouldn't quit my day job just yet. At least not until after the elections which will probably be held sometime during the 1st quarter 2011. (Not been set yet).