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, there are 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 recognised 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:
