Are you an driven Investment Analyst seeking at the “Lion City” as your next career area? Singapore continues to improve its position as Asia’s premier financial hub, but going in this competitive market in 2026 needs more than just a sharp mind for equities or set earning.
With the Ministry of Manpower (MOM) putting into action stricter Singapore Employment Pass (EP) 2026 rules, securing your role at an MAS-regulated firm now depends on a complex points-based method. This guide breaks down exactly what you need to navigate the COMPASS Structure and land a top-tier role in Singapore’s growing asset management sector.
The 2026 Regulatory Landscape: Employment Pass Evolution
In 2026, the Singapore Job Pass (EP) is no longer just about having a duty offer; it’s about proving your “balance” to the nearby office. The COMPASS Framework (Complementarity Assessment Framework) is now the gatekeeper for all finance professionals.
Main Visa Options for Analysts
- Standard Employment Pass (EP): This is for most analysts, managers, and experts. You need to get at least 40 points in COMPASS.
- Customized Employment Pass (PEP): This is good for big experts or deputies who earn more than S$22,500 per month. It gives more freedom because it is not linked to one boss.
- Overseas Network & Expertise (ONE) Pass: This is for very best workers. It is for persons in the top earners or with big successes in finance.
Salary Needs for 2026: Special Rules for Financial Jobs
The MOM has set top salary rules for the money help sector. If you need to work as an expert in a bank, hedge fund, or private fairness firm, your monthly salary must meet these all higher levels.
Salary Levels by Age
The minimum salary package different with your age. It goes up as you get older to match work experience.
Age Examples and Minimum Salary (2026)
- New Graduate (Age 23): S$6,200 for Financial Services, S$5,600 for other sectors.
- Mid-Career (Age 35): Around S$8,200 or more for Financial Services, around S$7,500 or more for other sectors.
- Senior (Age 45+): S$11,800 for Financial Services, S$10,700 for other sectors.
Good Tip: Before you accept a job offer, use the MOM Self-Assessment Tool (SAT). It tells you quickly if your salary is good enough for the age rules in 2026.
These salary rules help make sure foreign workers are paid well and fit the market. Many people already earn above these levels, so it does not affect everyone. But for new jobs or renewals in 2026, you must check carefully.
How to Get 40 Points in COMPASS Framework
To get an EP, you need at least 40 points. There are four main criteria and two bonus ones. For investment analysts, your education and the company’s mix of workers can help a lot.
Main Criteria (C1 to C4)
- C1: Salary Level (0 to 20 points): You get points if your salary is high compared to local workers of your age in the sector. If it is in the top group, you can get 20 points.
- C2: Qualifications (0 to 20 points): A degree from a top university gives big points. Good news: Things like CFA Charter or CAIA are now seen as equal to a degree in many cases. This can give you 10 points.
- C3: Diversity of Nationalities (0 to 20 points): Points if your nationality is not too common in the company’s professional staff.
- C4: Share of Local Workers (0 to 20 points): Companies with many Singaporean workers get points for hiring foreigners.
Bonus Criteria (C5 and C6)
- C5: Jobs in Shortage (SOL): Some special finance duties, like ESG experts or green finance roles, may be on the list. These all give extra points because Singapore needs them for its green aims.
- C6: Strategic Priorities: If the industry does big projects that support Singapore’s economy, you can get some bonus points.
To pass, mix best salary, strong education, and industry factors. Small industries often get automatic points for some criteria.
Best Areas for Investment Analyst Jobs
In 2026, Singapore wants specialists more than general analysts. The market is growing in high-value areas.
Top Growing Fields
- ESG Investment Analyst: Singapore wants to be a green finance center. Analysts who know about environment, social, and governance reports are needed a lot.
- Quantitative Investment Analyst: Duties that mix data study with buying and selling research.
- Alternative Investments: Big increase in private equity and startup money, especially in areas like OUE waterfront and historic place.
- FinTech Research Analyst: Roles about blockchain and new tech in banking.
These areas have good chances because they match Singapore’s plans for the future.
How to Apply and Follow Rules
Hiring foreign analysts follows the Fair Consideration Framework (FCF). Companies must show they looked at local people first.
Important Steps
- Job Advertising: The job must be posted on MyCareersFuture for at least 28 days in some cases before applying for EP.
- Check Qualifications: Degrees must be checked by approved companies to make sure they are real.
- In-Principle Approval (IPA): After applying online through MOM’s EP portal, you get an IPA letter. This lets you come to Singapore.
Checklist for 2026 Applicants
- Check if your university is on the top list for points.
- Make sure your monthly salary meets the financial sector age rules.
- Add skills like ESG or quant to your CV.
- See if the employer is MAS-regulated – this helps with checks.
Follow these steps to make your application strong.
Final Thoughts
Singapore is still a great place for investment professionals. The 2026 EP rules are strict, but they help bring the best talent. If you match your salary and skills to COMPASS, you can join Asia’s top financial center.
Are you ready to move here?
- Share this guide with friends if it helps!
- Comment: What is the hardest part of COMPASS for you?
Disclaimer:
This article is only for information and education. Always check the latest details on the official Ministry of Manpower (MOM) Singapore website before deciding on job or moving plans.