What is the
Fair Consideration Framework?
Definition Intent
Use this page to understand what "Fair Consideration Framework" means in the Singapore immigration system.
Advisory Intent
Once the definition is clear, move to an advisory guide if you need to know how FCF affects a real PR profile.
Decision Intent
If you are choosing between routes or statuses, use a comparison guide rather than stacking multiple glossary pages.
"The Fair Consideration Framework (FCF) is Singapore's employer-fairness regime requiring employers to give fair consideration to Singaporean candidates before hiring foreign professionals on Employment Passes. Employers must advertise positions on the national jobs platform for at least 14 days before applying for an EP for a foreign candidate (with exceptions for certain salary levels and roles)."
Key Facts
Employers must advertise roles on Jobs Bank for 14 days before most EP applications
Employers with discriminatory hiring practices may be placed under added scrutiny
Watchlisted employers face restrictions on new EP and S Pass applications
Hiring patterns are monitored — companies with disproportionately low Singaporean headcounts attract scrutiny
FCF exemptions exist for roles above a high salary threshold and certain specialised positions
FCF and Singapore PR — What You Need to Know
Applicants employed at FCF-watchlisted companies may face additional scrutiny in their PR applications — ICA is aware of employer hiring compliance records. While a FCF issue is an employer problem, not the employee's fault, it can raise questions about the validity and terms of employment. Applicants at scrutinised employers should ensure their employment records are impeccably documented.
Book a profile assessmentRelated Terms
The Employment Pass (EP) is Singapore's primary work authorisation for foreign professionals, managers, and executives. It allows holders to work in Singapore for a qualifying employer and is the most common pass held by PR applicants.
The Immigration and Checkpoints Authority (ICA) is Singapore's government agency responsible for border control, immigration, and the issuance of identity documents. ICA processes all Singapore Permanent Residency (PR) and Citizenship applications and is the sole authority in making approval decisions.
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