Immigration@SG (IASG) is a specialized immigration consultancy firm in Singapore that helps companies navigate the complex process of applying for Employment Passes (EPs) and other work visas. Here’s how IASG can assist companies in this process:
1. Expertise and Consultation
Initial Consultation:
- Assessment of Needs: IASG begins by understanding the company’s specific needs, such as the roles they need to fill, the profiles of candidates, and any unique circumstances. This allows IASG to provide tailored advice on the best approach to take for the EP application.
- Eligibility Assessment: They evaluate whether the potential foreign employees meet the eligibility criteria for an EP, such as minimum salary, educational qualifications, and relevant work experience.
Strategic Guidance:
- Fair Consideration Framework (FCF): IASG advises companies on the Fair Consideration Framework, ensuring compliance with MOM regulations. This may involve guiding companies on how to advertise job openings on the MyCareersFuture.sg portal and documenting efforts to hire Singaporean candidates before turning to foreign talent.
- Document Preparation: IASG helps companies prepare all the necessary documentation, ensuring that the application is complete and accurate, which can significantly improve the chances of approval.
2. Application Process Management
End-to-End Application Handling:
- Submission of Application: IASG takes charge of submitting the EP application on behalf of the company, using their expertise to ensure that all forms and documents are correctly filled out and submitted according to MOM requirements.
- Liaison with MOM: They serve as the point of contact with the Ministry of Manpower, handling any queries or additional requests for information that may arise during the application process. This can help prevent delays and ensure a smooth process.
Processing and Follow-up:
- Tracking Progress: IASG tracks the progress of the EP application, providing regular updates to the company on its status.
- Handling Appeals: If an EP application is rejected, IASG can assist in understanding the reasons for rejection and in preparing and submitting an appeal, if appropriate.
3. Compliance and Risk Management
Regulatory Compliance:
- Advisory on Legal Requirements: IASG ensures that companies are fully aware of and compliant with Singapore’s immigration laws and regulations, helping to avoid any legal issues that could arise from non-compliance.
- Audits and Reviews: They can conduct audits of a company’s existing immigration processes and practices to identify any areas of non-compliance or risk, recommending improvements as necessary.
Risk Mitigation:
- Avoiding Rejections: By ensuring that applications are thoroughly prepared and meet all the necessary criteria, IASG helps minimize the risk of rejections, which can be costly and time-consuming for companies.
- Addressing Concerns: IASG can help address any concerns or issues raised by MOM during the application process, reducing the likelihood of complications.
4. Post-Approval Services
Onboarding Support:
- In-Principle Approval (IPA) Management: Once the EP is approved, IASG assists in managing the In-Principle Approval (IPA) process, including ensuring that the employee completes any necessary medical exams and other formalities.
- EP Issuance: They help coordinate the final steps for issuing the EP card, including scheduling appointments for biometric registration and collecting the EP card.
Renewals and Extensions:
- EP Renewals: IASG can manage the renewal process for EP holders, ensuring that the application is submitted in a timely manner and that all renewal criteria are met.
- Upgrading Passes: If an employee becomes eligible for a higher-tier visa or permanent residency, IASG can assist with the application process.
5. Tailored Corporate Immigration Solutions
Customized Solutions:
- Bespoke Immigration Strategies: For companies with ongoing or large-scale immigration needs, IASG can develop and implement customized immigration strategies that align with the company’s business objectives.
- Training and Workshops: IASG also offers training sessions and workshops for HR teams to help them better understand Singapore’s immigration landscape and effectively manage their company’s immigration needs.
Conclusion
Immigration@SG (IASG) offers a comprehensive range of services to help companies in Singapore successfully apply for Employment Passes and manage their immigration needs. From providing expert guidance on eligibility and compliance to handling the entire application process and offering post-approval support, IASG ensures that companies can attract and retain the foreign talent they need while adhering to Singapore’s strict regulatory requirements.