📄

Work Permit System

Details the permits available for semi-skilled and unskilled foreign workers in industries like construction, manufacturing, and domestic work.

Sections

Comprehensive Guide to the Work Permit System in Singapore

The Work Permit (WP) system in Singapore is designed to regulate the employment of foreign workers in specific industries. It is primarily aimed at semi-skilled or unskilled workers from approved source countries. Below is a detailed breakdown of the system, including regulations, costs, procedures, eligibility criteria, and responsibilities for both employers and employees.

1. Overview of the Work Permit System

The Work Permit is a type of work visa issued by Singapore’s Ministry of Manpower (MOM) for foreign workers in industries such as construction, manufacturing, marine shipyard, process, and services. It is typically issued to workers with lower qualifications and skill levels.

  • Validity: The Work Permit is valid for up to 2 years, depending on the worker’s passport validity, employment contract, and security bond.
  • Quota System: Employers must adhere to a Dependency Ratio Ceiling (DRC), which limits the number of foreign workers they can hire relative to their local workforce.
  • Levy: Employers are required to pay a monthly foreign worker levy, which varies by sector and worker skill level.

2. National Regulations

The Work Permit system is governed by the Employment of Foreign Manpower Act (EFMA). Key regulations include:

  • Employers must ensure that foreign workers are employed only in approved sectors.
  • Workers must not engage in any other employment or business activities outside their approved job scope.
  • Employers are responsible for the well-being of their foreign workers, including housing, medical care, and adherence to employment terms.

3. Eligibility Criteria

For Employers

  • Must be a registered business entity in Singapore.
  • Must meet the Dependency Ratio Ceiling (DRC) for the specific sector.
  • Must pay the required foreign worker levy and provide a security bond (if applicable).

For Employees

  • Must be from an MOM-approved source country (varies by sector). Examples include:
    • Construction: Malaysia, China, India, Bangladesh, Myanmar, Thailand, etc.
    • Services: Malaysia, China, India, etc.
  • Must meet age requirements:
    • Minimum age: 18 years old.
    • Maximum age: 58 years old (for most sectors).
  • Must pass a medical examination upon arrival in Singapore.
  • Must have the necessary qualifications or skills (if required by the sector).

4. Costs Involved

For Employers

  1. Application Fee: SGD 35 per application.
  2. Issuance Fee: SGD 35 per Work Permit issued.
  3. Monthly Foreign Worker Levy:
    • Varies by sector and worker skill level (basic or higher-skilled).
    • Example: In the construction sector, the levy ranges from SGD 300 to SGD 950 per worker.
  4. Security Bond:
    • Employers must place a security bond of SGD 5,000 for each non-Malaysian worker.
    • The bond is forfeited if the employer violates MOM regulations.

For Employees

  • Employees are generally not required to pay for the Work Permit application or levy. However, they may incur costs for:
    • Medical examinations (approximately SGD 40–100).
    • Passport renewals or other personal documentation.

5. Standard Procedures for Application and Renewal

Application Process

  1. Pre-Application

    • Ensure the company meets the DRC and has sufficient quota.
    • Purchase a security bond (if applicable).
    • Arrange for worker’s medical examination (if required before application).

  2. Online Application

    • Submit the application via MOM’s Work Permit Online (WPOL) system.
    • Pay the application fee (SGD 35).

  3. Approval

    • MOM processes the application within 1–7 working days.
    • If approved, an In-Principle Approval (IPA) letter is issued.

  4. Post-Approval

    • Arrange for the worker’s entry into Singapore.
    • Conduct a medical examination (if not done earlier).
    • Issue the Work Permit card.

Renewal Process

  1. MOM sends a renewal notice to the employer 6–8 weeks before the Work Permit expires.
  2. Employers must ensure the worker’s passport is valid for at least 7 months.
  3. Submit the renewal application via WPOL.
  4. Pay the issuance fee (SGD 35) and ensure the levy is up to date.
  5. Receive the renewed Work Permit card.

6. Employer Responsibilities

Employers are legally obligated to:

  • Provide Accommodation: Ensure workers have proper housing that meets MOM’s standards.
  • Medical Care: Purchase medical insurance with a minimum coverage of SGD 15,000 per year for each worker.
  • Salary Payment: Pay workers their agreed salaries on time, as per the employment contract.
  • Repatriation: Bear the cost of repatriating the worker to their home country upon termination of employment.
  • Compliance: Adhere to all MOM regulations, including levy payments, quota limits, and work scope restrictions.

7. Employee Responsibilities

Foreign workers must:

  • Work only for the employer and in the job specified in the Work Permit.
  • Reside only in the accommodation provided by the employer.
  • Abide by Singapore’s laws and MOM regulations.
  • Undergo regular medical check-ups as required by MOM.

8. Country-Specific Considerations

  • Source Countries: Workers must be from MOM-approved countries, which vary by sector. Employers should verify the eligibility of workers from specific countries.
  • Cultural Sensitivity: Singapore is a multicultural society with strict laws on behavior and conduct. Workers should familiarize themselves with local customs, such as respecting religious practices and adhering to public cleanliness laws.
  • Language: While English is the working language, workers may benefit from learning basic English phrases to communicate effectively in the workplace.

9. Key Cultural and Practical Tips

  • Strict Laws: Singapore has strict laws on littering, smoking in public places, and drug use. Workers should be aware of these to avoid penalties.
  • Workplace Culture: Punctuality, professionalism, and respect for hierarchy are valued in Singaporean workplaces.
  • Integration: Employers are encouraged to help foreign workers integrate into the local community by providing orientation programs or language classes.

10. Additional Resources

  • MOM Website: www.mom.gov.sg
  • Work Permit Online (WPOL): For applications and renewals.
  • Employment Standards: Refer to the Employment Act for general labor laws.

By understanding the Work Permit system and adhering to the regulations, both employers and employees can ensure a smooth and compliant working relationship in Singapore.