Is a medical examination always required for the S Pass?
No. MOM states that the In-Principle Approval (IPA) letter tells you whether the candidate needs to go for a medical examination after arriving in Singapore. Check the IPA before booking anything — some candidates do not need one.
When is the S Pass medical examination done?
After the candidate arrives in Singapore. The IPA gives you 60 days to bring them into Singapore and get the pass issued, and the medical examination is part of the formalities within that window.
What tests are included in the S Pass medical examination?
The tests required are those set out on MOM's medical examination form, and the IPA states whether an examination is needed at all. Bring the form and the IPA with you — we complete exactly what MOM has asked for. Anyone who tells you the tests without seeing your IPA is guessing.
Who can perform the S Pass medical check-up?
A Singapore-registered doctor. The examination is done in Singapore after the candidate arrives.
What do I submit to MOM to get the S Pass issued?
When getting the pass issued, MOM asks for the candidate's completed medical examination form — or a medical declaration form — along with the completed declaration form attached to the IPA, passport details, medical insurance details, and other information listed on MOM's page.
Does my S Pass holder need a Primary Care Plan?
Possibly. MOM requires a Primary Care Plan (PCP) for workers who stay in dormitories that can accommodate 7 or more workers, or who work in the Construction, Marine shipyard or Process (CMP) sectors. If PCP applies, you must declare that you have bought it before the S Pass can be issued.
When do I buy the Primary Care Plan?
MOM's sequence is clear: the candidate is examined, and if they are certified fit to work, you then buy the Primary Care Plan for those required to have it. Don't buy it before the medical result is known.
What if the candidate's visit pass expires before the medical results are ready?
MOM allows you to extend their Short-Term Visit Pass. Submit the request 7 to 14 days before the STVP expires, and upload the doctor's memo stating the date the medical results can be collected. Submit it late and overstaying fines may be incurred.
Can you give me an example of the extension timing?
MOM's own example: if the Short-Term Visit Pass expires on 17 February, you can only submit the extension request between 4 and 10 February — that is, 7 to 14 days before expiry.
Is the S Pass medical examination the same as the Work Permit medical examination?
No. For Work Permit holders, MOM restricts where the examination may be done, depending on whether the worker is on the Onboard programme or requires a Primary Care Plan. The S Pass process is different: the IPA states whether a medical is needed, and it is performed by a Singapore-registered doctor after arrival.
Does my worker need to fast?
No. Fasting is not required.
What should the candidate bring?
Their passport, the In-Principle Approval (IPA) letter, and MOM's medical examination form. The examining doctor completes and signs the form.
What happens if the candidate is found unfit?
The doctor will explain the finding. A candidate who is not certified fit to work will not have their S Pass issued, and MOM's sequence — medical first, then Primary Care Plan — means you will not have bought the PCP unnecessarily.
Is the S Pass medical examination subsidised?
No. It is an employer's cost and is not covered by CHAS, Healthier SG or other national subsidy schemes.
How long is the notification letter valid?
Once the pass is issued, MOM emails a notification letter valid for 1 month from the date of issue. It allows the candidate to start work and travel in and out of Singapore while waiting for the pass card.
