Singapore’s Ministry of Manpower (MOM) now requires employers to verify foreign candidates’ educational qualifications through approved agencies for Employment Pass (EP) applications. RMI (Risk Management Intelligence) is one of the 12 companies selected by MOM in 2023 for this role. As a MOM-endorsed verification provider, RMI aligns its screening processes with every MOM guideline. In practice, RMI obtains signed candidate authorisation forms, verifies degrees directly with universities or registrars, and produces reports that include all required details (such as the official MOM Verification Reference Number) to comply with current regulations.
- Official MOM endorsement: RMI has been endorsed by Singapore’s Ministry of Manpower to conduct educational verifications for work-pass candidates. MOM chose RMI as one of 12 authorised background screening companies to verify the credentials of EP applicants. This government approval reflects MOM’s confidence in RMI’s compliance systems, meaning RMI’s reports automatically meet MOM’s certification requirements.
- Rigorous verification protocols: Every qualification is confirmed through the issuing institution. RMI verifies completed degrees via the university’s registrar or administrator, and it also checks that the school or program is officially accredited. By verifying credentials at the source, RMI ensures that only authentic, recognised qualifications are reported, exactly what MOM mandates under the new verification rules.
- Strict documentation requirements: RMI follows all MOM procedures for documentation. Applicants must sign a Letter of Authorisation (LOA) permitting RMI to collect and verify their records. RMI also requires certified English translations of any non-English certificates, as stipulated by MOM. Notably, RMI’s reports include the mandatory MOM Verification Reference Number for each check. This attention to paperwork ensures the final verification report fully complies with MOM’s format and content standards.
- Dedicated case management and quality assurance: Every client call is managed by a specialised RMI case agent who ensures it is thoroughly reviewed through to completion. RMI employs healthy quality control and safe data usage during the process. According to RMI, it has functional systems and procedures that provide quality and efficient screening. This process of control allows for identifying gaps or inaccuracies in cities at an initial stage of work and avoids any delays without affecting the quality of the final report.
- Privacy and Data Security (PDPA Compliance): RMI acts in accordance with the Singapore Personal Data Protection Act. All the information about the individual that is obtained during screening is secured and processed. The ability to ensure the privacy of candidates and reduce risks to employers associated with data protection as a result of PDPA compliance also contributes to compliance in the case of RMI.
- Global reach and turnaround speed: RMI’s network spans over 40 countries, allowing for quick access to overseas education records. MOM reports that most verification checks by approved agencies finish within about 1–2 weeks. In line with this, RMI’s typical turnaround is 7–15 business days for most jurisdictions. Fast and reliable results enable employers to submit EP applications on schedule without compliance gaps.
- People-centred support: In addition to mere technical compliance, RMI places importance on the smooth experience of applying candidates. The RMI team primarily guides applicants through every step, making them feel as though they are part of the team. Using this people-focused strategy will facilitate the timely supply of complete and accurate documentation by candidates, which will help eliminate the risk of incomplete verifications leading to MOM follow-ups and delays in approvals.
RMI background checks at a glance
| Category | Details |
| What is Verified | Education qualifications are checked for authenticity, along with the accreditation status of the issuing institution to ensure it is officially recognised. |
| How Verification Works | RMI contacts universities and institutions directly to confirm records, rather than relying on submitted documents alone, ensuring higher accuracy and credibility. |
| Documents Required | Candidates must provide a degree certificate, passport, and any additional documents depending on the country or institution, including translations if needed. |
| When It Starts | The process only begins after payment is completed, all documents are submitted, and a signed Letter of Authorisation (LOA) is provided. |
| Processing Time | Most background checks are completed within 7–15 business days, depending largely on how quickly institutions respond to verification requests. |
| Final Outcome | A verification report is issued with a MOM Verification Reference Number, which is required for Employment Pass applications in Singapore. |
By handling all these elements, RMI’s screening service addresses the common pain points HR and immigration teams face. Without a specialist partner, employers risk delays in EP applications, missing the correct paperwork, or falling afoul of privacy rules. RMI’s MOM-approved process – from documentation to data security – takes these worries off the employer’s plate. For example, RMI’s dedicated MOM Verification page explains how its service satisfies every Ministry requirement.
Organisations in highly regulated industries can also consult RMI’s MAS Background Screening guide for compliance guidance under the rules of the Monetary Authority of Singapore. In short, outsourcing to RMI helps Singaporean companies meet MOM’s standards efficiently and focus on hiring the right talent, not chasing paperwork.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does an RMI background check include?
An RMI background check primarily includes education verification and institution accreditation checks to ensure qualifications are both genuine and recognised.
When does the background screening process start?
The process only begins after payment is completed, all required documents are submitted, and the Letter of Authorisation (LOA) is signed.
Why does background screening take 7–15 business days?
The timeline depends on how quickly universities and institutions respond, as verification is conducted directly with primary sources.
What documents are required for RMI background checks?
Candidates typically need to provide:
- Degree or certificate
- Passport
- Additional documents (if required based on country or institution)
- English translations (for non-English documents)
What is included in the final background check report?
The final report includes verified results and a MOM Verification Reference Number, which is required for Employment Pass applications in Singapore.