A Singapore Work Permit is a legal document issued by the Singaporean government that allows foreign nationals to work in Singapore legally. This permit is a crucial requirement for foreign workers who wish to be employed in Singapore and is typically tied to a specific job or employer. It is part of Singapore's efforts to regulate its labor market, ensure the welfare of foreign workers, and manage its workforce efficiently. Different types of Work Permits are available, depending on the worker's skills, qualifications, and the industry in which they will be employed. This document outlines the eligibility criteria, application process, and other important details for individuals seeking employment opportunities in Singapore.
How to get a work permit in Singapore?
To initiate the application process for a Singapore Work Permit, it involves several key steps, primarily the responsibility of the employer or employment agent (EA) and the worker:
- Application Submission: The employer or employment agent (EA) is responsible for submitting the application. In most cases, this step takes approximately one week for processing.
- Preparation for Workers' Arrival: The employer or EA must prepare for the arrival of the workers. The time required for this step varies based on individual circumstances and the nature of the employment.
- Issuance of the Permit: After ensuring compliance with any vaccination requirements (if applicable), the employer or EA can get the Work Permit issued. This step typically involves immediate processing once all necessary conditions are met.
- Fingerprint and Photo Registration (If Required): The worker, in some cases, may need to register their fingerprints and photo. This step is not applicable to all applicants and is only required when specified.
- Receiving the Card: The employer or authorized recipients will receive the Work Permit card. It is typically delivered within five working days after the completion of fingerprint and photo registration, or document verification.
Work permit in Singapore: visa
The Work Permit in Singapore is a visa designed for foreign workers looking to work temporarily in the country. This visa is typically issued for specific types of jobs, including construction, manufacturing, and service-related roles. To obtain a Work Permit, the foreign worker must be sponsored by a specific employer who submits an application to the Ministry of Manpower in Singapore. It's important to note that each type of Work Permit has its unique requirements and criteria, and its issuance depends on the qualifications and the degree of need for the worker in that particular position.
Work permit in Singapore: application requirements
The requirements for obtaining a Singapore Work Permit, particularly an Employment Pass, are as follows:
- Company Registration: Your company must be registered in Singapore.
- Job Offer: The employee should have a formal job offer from your registered company.
- Job Responsibilities: The employee's role and responsibilities must align with the description specified in the work permit issued by the authorities.
- Valid Passport: The employee must hold a valid passport.
- Minimum Salary: The applicant must be offered a salary of more than $4,500.
- Role Specifics: The employee should work in a managerial, executive, or specialized role within the company.
- Academic Qualification or Experience: The applicant should possess either a credible academic qualification from a university or significant relevant experience as a specialist in their field.
Temporary work permit in Singapore
A Temporary Work Permit in Singapore is a type of visa issued to foreign workers who are temporarily employed in the country. It is typically granted for a short duration and is intended for specific types of work, such as construction, manufacturing, or service-related jobs.
To obtain a Temporary Work Permit in Singapore, your employer must submit an application on your behalf, justifying the need for hiring a foreign worker. Once the application is approved, you can apply for the work visa.
To obtain a Temporary Work Permit in Singapore, your employer must submit an application on your behalf, justifying the need for hiring a foreign worker. Once the application is approved, you can apply for the work visa.
Type of work permit in Singapore
Singapore offers several types of work permits for foreign workers, each catering to different categories of employees. Some common types of work permits in Singapore include:
- Employment Pass (EP): The Employment Pass is for foreign professionals, managers, executives, and specialists who are offered skilled employment opportunities in Singapore. It is typically issued to individuals with recognized qualifications and relevant work experience.
- S Pass: The S Pass is intended for mid-skilled workers in various industries, such as manufacturing, construction, and services. Applicants must meet specific eligibility criteria, including a set minimum monthly salary.
- Work Permit: The Work Permit is typically issued to semi-skilled or unskilled foreign workers in sectors like construction, manufacturing, and marine industries.
- Dependant Pass (DP) or Long-Term Visit Pass (LTVP): These passes are not work permits per se but allow the dependents of Employment Pass or S Pass holders to reside in Singapore. DP holders can work with a Letter of Consent (LOC) from the Ministry of Manpower.
- Miscellaneous Work Pass: This is for individuals who work on a short-term basis in Singapore for specific projects, events, or activities.
- EntrePass: Designed for foreign entrepreneurs who wish to start and operate a business in Singapore, this pass is tied to the business they set up.
- Personalized Employment Pass (PEP): This pass is for high-earning Employment Pass or S Pass holders who want to switch employers without reapplying for a new work pass.
- Training Employment Pass (TEP): Issued to foreign professionals undergoing practical training in Singapore as part of a training arrangement.
- Work Holiday Pass (WHP): Available to university students and recent graduates from specific countries, this pass allows them to work and holiday in Singapore for a limited duration.
Work permit in Singapore for Indian
Indian nationals planning to travel to Singapore for work purposes are required to apply for a Singapore work visa. The application process can be completed online, and there is no need to submit your physical passport offline. Once your work visa is approved, you will receive a digital copy, and there is no requirement for a physical visa stamp in your passport for entry into the country. As part of the application process, you will typically need to provide a copy of your passport, demonstrate proof of sufficient funds, and fulfill any other specific requirements related to the type of work visa you are applying for.
Work permit in Singapore for Malaysian
Malaysians seeking to obtain a work permit in Singapore have various visa options based on their job type, education, experience, and salary level. These include the Employment Pass, EntryPass, Personalized Employment Pass (PEP), Overseas Network & Expertise Pass (One Pass), S Pass, Work Permit for migrant workers, Work Permit for migrant domestic workers, training visas, and Working Holiday visas for eligible candidates. Each pass has its specific requirements, and applicants need a job offer from a Singaporean employer to apply. Some passes also allow the option to bring dependents to Singapore. Salary requirements and eligibility criteria can vary based on the type of pass and may be subject to regular updates.
For example, the Employment Pass for Malaysians as of September 2023 may require applicants to meet a minimum qualifying salary, be fully vaccinated against COVID-19 (including boosters), and pass a points-based assessment framework called COMPASS. The salary requirements for other passes, such as the S Pass, may also depend on factors like age and the industry. The application process for these passes typically starts with the employer initiating the application, followed by an approval process that may take varying amounts of time.
For example, the Employment Pass for Malaysians as of September 2023 may require applicants to meet a minimum qualifying salary, be fully vaccinated against COVID-19 (including boosters), and pass a points-based assessment framework called COMPASS. The salary requirements for other passes, such as the S Pass, may also depend on factors like age and the industry. The application process for these passes typically starts with the employer initiating the application, followed by an approval process that may take varying amounts of time.
Work permit in Singapore for Ghanaians
While Ghanaian citizens can work in Singapore if they have a job offer and have been granted an employment pass by the Ministry of Manpower, it's important to note that, in general, there is no preferential treatment based on the fact that both Ghana and Singapore are Commonwealth countries. The employment pass application process and requirements are typically the same for citizens of all countries.
It is indeed unusual that the Ghanaian High Commission in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, is not cross-accredited to Singapore, despite its proximity. The cross-accreditation of embassies and high commissions is often a matter of administrative and diplomatic agreements, and it may be influenced by various factors. In this case, the cross-accreditation to Singapore is managed through the Ghanaian Embassy in Tokyo, Japan, which also has an Honorary Consulate-General.
It is indeed unusual that the Ghanaian High Commission in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, is not cross-accredited to Singapore, despite its proximity. The cross-accreditation of embassies and high commissions is often a matter of administrative and diplomatic agreements, and it may be influenced by various factors. In this case, the cross-accreditation to Singapore is managed through the Ghanaian Embassy in Tokyo, Japan, which also has an Honorary Consulate-General.
Work permit in Singapore for mom
In Singapore, foreign nationals who wish to work need a valid work permit. If you are a mother and you want to work in Singapore, you will need to meet certain requirements and follow the appropriate procedures. Here are some key points to consider:
- Employment Pass (EP): The Employment Pass is a common work permit for professionals, managers, and executives. To be eligible for an Employment Pass, you typically need to have a job offer from a Singaporean employer. The employer will apply for the pass on your behalf. The eligibility criteria for the EP include a minimum monthly salary, relevant qualifications, and a job offer from an eligible company.
- S Pass: The S Pass is for mid-skilled workers. If your job falls into this category, your employer can apply for an S Pass on your behalf. The requirements for the S Pass include a minimum monthly salary, qualifications, and a job offer from a qualified employer.
- Dependant Pass (DP): If you are the dependent (e.g., spouse or child) of a person holding an Employment Pass or S Pass in Singapore, you may be eligible for a Dependant Pass. This pass allows you to live in Singapore and also work without the need for a separate work pass. However, the type of employment you can engage in may be restricted, and it's essential to check the specific conditions.
- Work Permit for Foreign Domestic Workers: If you are seeking employment as a domestic helper (e.g., nanny or maid), you may need to apply for a Foreign Domestic Worker Work Permit, commonly referred to as a "maid's permit." There are specific requirements and processes for this category.
Part-time work permits in Singapore for international students
Students in Singapore are permitted to work part-time for up to 16 hours per week while their courses are in session and can work full-time during their scheduled breaks. However, there are specific conditions and prerequisites that students need to meet if they want to combine work and study in Singapore. These conditions include:
It's important to note that students who are studying at institutions not listed as approved institutions or those who have arrived in Singapore as exchange students are not eligible to engage in either part-time or full-time employment.
If a student wishes to work for more than 16 hours per week in a part-time job during their studies, they must apply for a special work permit.
- Enrollment as full-time students in an accredited college or university.
- Possession of a valid Student Pass issued by the Immigration and Checkpoints Authority (ICA).
It's important to note that students who are studying at institutions not listed as approved institutions or those who have arrived in Singapore as exchange students are not eligible to engage in either part-time or full-time employment.
If a student wishes to work for more than 16 hours per week in a part-time job during their studies, they must apply for a special work permit.
Work permit in Singapore: new rules
Starting from September 1, 2023, there will be a new two-stage eligibility framework for Employment Pass (EP) candidates. Besides meeting the required qualifying salary (Stage 1), EP candidates will need to successfully complete a points-based Complementarity Assessment Framework (Stage 2).
Work permit in Singapore: processing time
The processing time for Singapore work permits for professionals is significantly faster when applications are submitted online, with approximately 80 percent of online applications being processed within seven working days. In contrast, manual applications may take up to six weeks to complete.
For Singapore S Pass applications, the processing time is typically 7 working days when submitted online, while in-person applications can take up to 5 weeks for processing. Work Permits in Singapore usually require 1 to 7 working days for processing. The processing times for work visas for trainees and students in Singapore can vary, ranging from 7 to 5 weeks.
When applying online, a Training Work Permit in Singapore can be processed for interim approval in just 1 working day.
For Singapore S Pass applications, the processing time is typically 7 working days when submitted online, while in-person applications can take up to 5 weeks for processing. Work Permits in Singapore usually require 1 to 7 working days for processing. The processing times for work visas for trainees and students in Singapore can vary, ranging from 7 to 5 weeks.
When applying online, a Training Work Permit in Singapore can be processed for interim approval in just 1 working day.
Work permit in Singapore: cost
The cost of a work permit in Singapore can vary depending on the type of work permit and the duration of the permit. Here are the general costs for some common types of work permits in Singapore:
S Pass:
Employment Pass (EP):
S Pass:
- Application fee: S$75
- Issuance fee: S$100
- Multiple Journey Visa (if required): S$30 for each entry visa
- Miscellaneous Work Pass Fees: S$35
Employment Pass (EP):
- Application fee: S$105
- Issuance fee: S$225
- Multiple Journey Visa (if required): S$30 for each entry visa
- Miscellaneous Work Pass Fees: S$35
Income tax for work permit holder in Singapore
Non-tax residents are individuals who have stayed and worked in Singapore for less than 183 days in a tax year. Here are some key points to note regarding the tax treatment of non-tax residents in Singapore:
Taxation of Individual Income:
Tax Relief:
Personal Income Tax Rate:
Other Income:
Taxation of Individual Income:
- Non-tax residents are generally only taxed on their individual income earned in Singapore. Income earned outside Singapore is not subject to Singaporean income tax.
Tax Relief:
- Non-tax residents are not entitled to tax reliefs and rebates available to tax residents. Tax residents may be eligible for various tax reliefs, such as those for children, parents, and housing expenses, but these are not applicable to non-tax residents.
Personal Income Tax Rate:
- Non-residents in Singapore are subject to a flat 15% personal income tax rate on their employment income earned in Singapore. This rate is applied to the gross income, and there are generally no deductions allowed.
Other Income:
- Income earned in Singapore other than employment income, such as rental income or director's fees, is typically taxed at a prevailing non-resident tax rate. As of your information, it was set at 22%, with plans to raise it to 24% in YA (Year of Assessment) 2024.
