Guide · Updated Apr 2026
First time working in Singapore?
Everything a JB commuter needs — from work pass to Singpass, in the right order.
EP / S Pass / WPCommuting from JB6 stepsChecklist included
→
Overview
1 image covers everything
Full process overview
Moving from JB to work in Singapore involves more steps than most people expect. Here's a clear breakdown of what you need, in the order you need to do it.
Work pass first — everything else depends on this. Your employer applies, not you.
Get a SIM card — start with prepaid, convert to postpaid after Singpass.
Rent a room (optional) — if relocating to JB, choose your area based on commute time.
Bank account — open before your pass is issued. Bring your IPA letter.
Fingerprint & collect pass — follow your employer's instructions for MOM appointment.
Register Singpass — then convert your temporary SIM to a permanent plan.
1
Work Pass Application
3–8 weeksYour image here
1080 × 1350px
Displayed at 200px wide
Work Pass Online Application Process
Step 1 · Before anything else
Your employer applies on your behalf
You cannot apply for an EP, S Pass or work permit yourself. Your employer submits the application through MOM's Online portal. Make sure they have everything they need from you.
Check your eligibility — EP needs min SGD 5,600/month, S Pass min SGD 3,300
Provide passport copy + educational certificates to employer
Wait for IPA letter — valid 6 months after approval
EP OnlineFree to apply
!
If your application is rejected, your employer can appeal within 3 months. Common reasons: salary below threshold, qualifications not recognised. Contact MOM directly if unsure.
2
Get a Singapore SIM card
Before day oneStep 2 · Temporary first, permanent later
Start with a prepaid SIM — convert after Singpass
Get a tempory SIM at any telco shop on arrival. You'll need a local number for work. After registering Singpass, you can convert to a permanent plan using your FIN.
Buy prepaid SIM at 7-Eleven or any telco shop
SGD 15–30 for prepaid with 30 days data
Convert to permanent after Singpass is ready
Temporary firstConvert later
Your image here
1080 × 1350px
Displayed at 200px wide
Singtel / Starhub / M1 prepaid SIM
Sponsored · Singtel
Best SIM plans for JB commuters
Singtel Combo plans from SGD 10/month — includes data roaming to Malaysia.
3
Rent a Room
Optional · if relocatingYour image here
1080 × 1350px
Displayed at 200px wide
JB/SG housing areas near checkpoints
Step 3 · Optional
Choose the right area for your commute
Where you live in JB matters a lot for your daily commute time. Areas near Woodlands Checkpoint have very different traffic patterns compared to Tuas. Consider commute time first, then rent budget.
Near Woodlands: JB City, Skudai, Tampoi — RM 1,200–2,500/month
Near Tuas: Gelang Patah, Nusajaya, Bukit Indah — RM 1,000–2,200/month
Check our JB housing guide for detailed area breakdown
See JB housing guide →
4
Open a Singapore Bank Account
Do this earlyStep 4 · Before your start date
Get your salary account ready
Most Singapore employers credit salary to a local bank account only. You can open one before your work pass is issued — just bring your IPA letter and passport to any branch.
Bring IPA letter + original passport to bank branch
Choose DBS, OCBC or UOB — all accept IPA holders
Maintain min balance (SGD 500–3,000 depending on account type)
In-person required~1 hour
Your image here
1080 × 1350px
Displayed at 200px wide
DBS / OCBC branch visit
Sponsored · CIMB
Open a SG bank account from JB
CIMB FastSaver — no min balance, 1.8% p.a. Open online in 10 minutes with MyInfo.
5
Fingerprint & Collect Your Pass
Follow employer instructionsYour image here
1080 × 1350px
Displayed at 200px wide
MOM Services Centre
Step 5 · After IPA approval
Register biometrics and collect your physical pass
Your employer will arrange an appointment at MOM Services Centre for fingerprint registration. Bring all the required documents. Your physical work pass card will be issued or mailed to your employer.
Follow your employer's instructions for the MOM appointment
Bring original passport + Notification Letter + Appointment Letter on the day
Fingerprint registration is mandatory for EP and S Pass holders
Physical card issued or mailed within 5 working days
MOM Services CentreBy appointment only
!
You must complete fingerprint registration within 2 weeks of starting work. Do not delay — your employer is also responsible for ensuring this is done on time.
6
Register Singpass & Convert Your SIM
You're almost done!Step 6 · Final step
Set up Singpass and go permanent
Singpass is Singapore's digital identity — you'll need it for almost everything: CPF, tax, government services, and converting your temporary SIM to a permanent plan. Register online using Singpass app.
Register at singpass.gov.sg or any SingPost outlet with your work pass
Set up Singpass app on your phone — enables face verification
Convert temporary SIM to permanent using Singpass/physical work pass
singpass.gov.sgFree
Your image here
1080 × 1350px
Displayed at 200px wide
Singpass app setup
You're all set!
Once Singpass is registered and your SIM is converted, you're fully set up as a Singapore worker commuting from JB. Welcome to the causeway life.