The world has become more globalised, with an increased cultural and economic exchange between nations regularly.
Singapore is one such country – known not just for its marvellous architectural wonders but also for the opportunity it provides to people (especially immigrants).
Being a free-market economy, Singapore also has favourable tax systems and career growth opportunities for people.
It’s no wonder, then, that many people apply here annually for their work visas.
But most people need to know the steps to start working in the country. It’s worth noting that getting work passes for foreigners in Singapore usually involves a stringent process – the knowledge of which is essential for working and living in the country.
This article will explore the various types of work permits and the various work visa types applicable in Singapore.
We’ll also cover the steps required, apart from highlighting some essential tips to help you get them quickly.
So what are you waiting for? Let’s get started.
What is a Singapore Work Visa?
A Singapore Work Visa is a work pass for foreigners in Singapore. The work visa helps foreigners reside and work in Singapore for a designated period. Such visas are a legal requirement and must be adhered to properly.
The work passes the key to unlocking the door to a world of diverse talents, cultures, and ideas, fueling Singapore’s reputation as a global hub for innovation and business excellence.
That being said, there are specific criteria one needs to meet to get short-term work passes for Singapore.
Here’s a quick low-down of the same:
- The individual must own a valid passport.
- The applicant must be at least 18 to 50 years old and a non-Malaysian citizen.
- The applicant is only permitted to work within the scope mentioned in the permit for the time limit allotted to them and at most that.
| Professional Workers | Work Pass Type |
| Managers | Employment Pass (EP) |
| Executives | Employment Pass (EP) |
| Skilled Individuals | S Pass |
| Semi-Skilled Individuals | Work Permit (WP) |
| Trainees | Training Employment Pass (TEP) |
| Students | Student Pass (STP) |
Work Pass in Singapore for Managers and Executives
There are three different Singapore work visa types for a professional worker. Here’s a quick look at the various Singapore work visas for professionals to apply for:
Employment Pass
An Employment Pass is given to those earning at least $3600 or more monthly. It is usually available for foreign executives, managers, and professionals.
Personalised Employment Pass
You can get a Personalized Employment Pass if you already hold an Employment pass in Singapore. For an individual to get this, they need to be a high-earning foreigner – to utilise the benefits that come with it entirely.
Overseas Networks and Expertise Pass
The Overseas Network and Expertise Pass (ONE Pass) in Singapore is an innovative program to attract foreign professionals with exceptional skills, knowledge, and experience in fields such as academia, sports, business, culture, arts, and research.
It applies to artists with talents in various sectors like arts, culture, sports and academics.
Work Pass for Skilled and Semi-Skilled Individuals
Now if you fall under the category of a semi-skilled and skilled individual, you have the liberty of choosing between the following five work passes according to your requirement:-
S Pass
You can apply for an S Pass if you are a skilled middle-level worker with a monthly salary of about $2300 after using the foreign worker levies tax.
Work Permit for Migrant Worker
A strict foreign quota and levy application provides this work pass for working in limited sectors like process or service, construction, marine shipyard, and manufacturing.
The work permit for migrant workers only extends to workers from specific foreign countries.
Work Permit for Migrant Domestic Worker
Work permit for migrant domestic workers is available for people ages 23 to 50. The work permit is given to India, Bangladesh, Cambodia, Macau, Indonesia, Malaysia, and Hong Kong citizens.
Work Permit for Confinement Nanny
This work permit is available to Malaysian nannies who are available to work for about 16 weeks and take care of the child from the time they are born.
The employer is responsible for paying the foreign worker levy.
Work Permit for Performing Artiste
The artists and performers willing to work at hotels, bars, and nightclubs can apply for this pass.
Work Passes for Trainees, Students
Now that we’ve got a fair understanding of the different work passes, it’s time to learn about the various Singapore work visas for students:
Training Employment Pass
A training employment pass is for individuals who aim to train in Singapore for three months.
Training Work Permit
This permit lasts about six months and allows semi-skilled or unskilled foreign applicants to undergo practical training in Singapore.
Miscellaneous Work Pass
Miscellaneous Work Pass is for individuals holding short-term work passes for Singapore. By earning this pass, they can work in Singapore for a time period of about 60 days.
Work Pass Exemption for Foreign Students
This pass is for international students studying Full-time at a reputed institution or school in Singapore.
Tips for Getting a Work Pass
Here are some relevant tips to help you quickly get a work pass in Singapore:
Secure a Job
The first step towards applying for a work pass is to secure a job. You can seek out different jobs by visiting job portals like Foundit or by connecting with people from recruitment agencies.
Consider Niche Industry
It is vital to upgrade your knowledge about the different kinds of work passes and which ones you will need according to your interests. Choosing a niche industry will help narrow your focus towards your goal and help you achieve it.
Hence, choosing a niche industry is crucial.
Prepare your Documents
The third and most important tip is to update your documents before applying. Preparing your documents and sorting them per your requirements can make the application process much more efficient.
Final Thoughts
Your dream of making a career in Singapore is secure if you gain knowledge about the work passes you would need that align with your career and skill.
This article is your guide to learning about the types of work passes available and the tips required to get a work pass in Singapore.
We hope you found value and will use some of these tips to get your work permits and visas for Singapore.
FAQs Related to Singapore Work Visa Types
Q1. How to Apply for a Singapore Work Visa?
Ans1. You can apply for the work visa online by submitting your application on the Ministry of Manpower’s website or by visiting the EP’s online portal.
Q2. What are the Eligibility Criteria for an Employment Pass in Singapore?
Ans2. The individual must fulfil certain criteria to get short-term work passes for Singapore. Here’s what they are:
- The individual must have a valid passport.
- The applicant must be a non-Malaysian citizen at least 18 to 50 years old.
- The applicant is only permitted to work within the scope mentioned in the permit for the time limit allotted to them and not more than that.
Q3. Can I switch Jobs While Holding a Work Pass in Singapore?
Ans3. If you wish to switch jobs, you must inform the MOM by submitting a notification through the MOM’s online portal. The notification should be submitted within seven days of the job change.
Q4. What Documents are Required to Apply for a Work Permit in Singapore?
Ans4. You would need a passport, employment contract, educational certificates, other relevant supporting documents, and a medical examination report (if required).
Q5. What is the Duration of Work Passes in Singapore?
Ans5. The work permit duration is generally valid for two years.
