Singapore has one of the most prosperous and developed economies in the world, known for its free-market policies and competitive business environment.
It’s no wonder that over 1.3 million foreign workers were part of Singapore’s workforce in 2018, representing more than 20% of the country’s total population. With its high salaries, attractive job opportunities, and favorable tax system, Singapore is a magnet for foreign professionals seeking career opportunities.
To work in Singapore as a foreign national, you’ll need a Singapore work visa, also referred to as a work pass. This article provides an overview of the different types of work visas available in Singapore, along with application procedures and the possibility of bringing family members.
Types of Singapore Work Visas
The Singapore work visas are classified into four main categories based on the type of work and the skill level of the worker:
- Work visas for professionals
- Work visas for skilled and semi-skilled workers
- Work visas for trainees and students
- Short-term work passes
1. Singapore Work Visas for Professionals
Professionals looking to work in Singapore can apply for one of the following passes:
- Employment Pass: This pass is for foreign professionals, managers, and executives earning a monthly salary of at least S$3,600.
- Personalized Employment Pass (PEP): Available for high-earning individuals or current Employment Pass holders, the PEP offers more flexibility in terms of employment.
- EntrePass: Designed for foreign entrepreneurs and investors who want to start or run a business in Singapore.
*Note*: For these work passes, foreign worker quotas and levies do not apply.
2. Singapore Work Visas for Skilled and Semi-Skilled Workers
If you are a skilled or semi-skilled worker, you can apply for one of the following visas:
- S Pass: For mid-level skilled workers with a minimum monthly salary of S$2,300. Foreign worker quotas and levies apply.
- Work Permit for Foreign Workers: For workers in sectors such as construction, manufacturing, and marine shipyard, available to nationals of specific countries.
- Work Permit for Foreign Domestic Workers (FDW): For domestic workers aged 23-50 from countries like Indonesia, Malaysia, India, etc.
- Work Permit for Confinement Nannies: Available to Malaysian nannies for up to 16 weeks after a baby’s birth. A foreign worker levy applies.
- Work Permit for Performing Artists: For performing artists employed in public entertainment venues such as bars or hotels. Foreign worker quotas and levies apply.
3. Singapore Work Visas for Trainees and Students
There are specific work permits for foreign students or trainees:
- Training Employment Pass: For trainees seeking short-term employment (up to three months) in Singapore.
- Work Holiday Pass: Available for young adults (18-25 years, 18-30 for Australians) under specific Working Holiday Programs, allowing them to work for up to six months (one year for Australians).
- Training Work Permit: For foreign students/trainees undergoing practical training for up to six months.
4. Short-Term Work Passes
In most cases, foreign nationals on a short-term Visit Pass cannot engage in any work-related activities. However, in special circumstances, such as for journalists or public speakers, a Miscellaneous Work Pass may be issued, allowing work for up to 60 days.
Students studying in Singapore with a Student Visa may also be allowed to work under certain conditions, such as being enrolled in approved institutions.
How to Apply for a Singapore Work Visa
The process for obtaining a Singapore work visa involves several steps:
- Find a Job: First, you must secure a job in Singapore, as it is your employer or an employment agency who will handle your visa application.
- Employer Submits Application: Your employer will submit your work visa application through EP Online, the Ministry of Manpower’s (MOM) online platform, and pay a processing fee.
- Approval: If approved, your employer will receive an In-Principle Approval (IPA) letter, which you can use to enter Singapore.
- Rejection: If rejected, your employer will receive an In-Principle Rejection letter.
- Travel to Singapore: Using the IPA letter, you can travel to Singapore.
- Visa Issuance: Upon your arrival, your employer applies via EP Online to get your work visa issued. Another fee is paid for the work pass.
- Notification Letter: Once the work pass is issued, you’ll receive a notification letter allowing you to start working.
- Registration: Within two weeks, you must register at the Employment Pass Services Centre (EPSC).
- Receive Work Pass: After registration, you will receive your work pass card within four working days.
Can You Bring Your Family Members With You to Singapore?
Certain professionals and skilled workers are eligible to bring their close family members, such as spouses and children under 21, to Singapore with a Dependent’s Pass. Other family members can apply for the Long-Term Visit Pass (LTVP).
Singapore offers a wide range of work visas tailored to different professions and skill levels. Whether you are a high-earning professional, a skilled worker, or a student, Singapore has a visa option suited to your needs.
The application process is straightforward, but it’s important to secure employment before applying. With its thriving economy, excellent job opportunities, and attractive living standards, Singapore remains a top destination for expats.
If you need more specific guidance, refer to Singapore’s Ministry of Manpower website for detailed visa application procedures.