SMU welcomes a vibrant international student community, and we are committed to supporting you as you explore career opportunities in Singapore and beyond.
After Graduation
Your Student's Pass (STP), issued by the Immigration & Checkpoints Authority (ICA), is valid only while you are actively studying.
Once you complete your studies:
- SMU will notify ICA of your graduation status.
- Your STP will be cancelled within 30 days of your final examination or assessment, or on the official completion date of your program—whichever comes first.
- You are legally required to leave Singapore or obtain a valid pass to remain in the country before the STP expires.
Staying in Singapore to Seek Employment
If you wish to remain in Singapore to look for a job, you have a few legal pathways:
- Apply through the ICA e-Service.
- Meant for graduates needing extra time to find employment or arrange their next steps.
- Valid for up to 90 days.
- You must apply before your STP is cancelled.
- You may be asked to upload:
- Graduation letter from SMU
- Student Pass cancellation letter
- Proof of sufficient financial support
- Passport bio-data page
❗ You cannot work on a Long-Term Visit Pass. You must convert it to a valid work pass before starting any job.
- You may be issued a short-term visit pass automatically upon cancellation of your STP.
- Typically valid for 30 days.
- Extension requests can be made via ICA eServices.
Gaining Employment
Once you receive a job offer, your employer must apply for one of the following passes:
For foreign professionals with a job offer in a managerial, executive or specialist role
Minimum monthly salary: SGD 5,000 (more for experienced candidates)
Requires recognized qualifications
For mid-level skilled staff
Minimum salary: SGD 3,150 (for new graduates)
Employer quotas and levies apply
For high-achieving talents with job offers or established careers; more applicable for mid-career professionals.
✅ Tip: Use the Self-Assessment Tool (SAT) to check if you qualify for EP or S Pass before applying.
Important Links
Please refer to the following links for the latest updates:
