Work Permits allow semi-skilled foreign workers from a pre-approved list of countries to work in specific industries in Singapore. These sectors mainly include construction, manufacturing, services, process and marine shipyard industries.
We assist Singapore companies with Work Permit applications and other forms of visa applications. Contact our immigration specialist for a free consultation today!
The general requirements for a foreigner to be qualified for a Work Permit are as follow:
Upon approved Work Permits, employers must expect the following:
Note : Excluding MOM fee, Medical, Insurance, etc.
A Work Permit can be renewed six to eight weeks before it expires.
To renew:
What happens if the Work Permit Renewal is Rejected?
In the case of an unsuccessful Work Permit renewal, the employer can submit an appeal with supporting documents. MOM will take around three weeks to process the request.
The employer of the Work Permit holder must apply for a new card within one week if the Work Permit is lost, damaged or stolen.
The new Work Permit card can be collected within four working days after approval.
The employer of a Work Permit holder must cancel the Work Permit if the worker is no longer working for the company or if the Work Permit expires. The cancellation must be made within one week after the last day of notice or one day after the Work Permit expires.
Here are some of the documents needed for the Work Permit application
Note: all documents must be in English or with an English translation done by a certified translation body.
We will advise and assist in the preparation of a Work Permit application.
We will then apply online and ensure that all details are encoded correctly. We will track your application and liaise with MOM if required.
Upon approval, an in-principle approval (IPA) letter will be issued. It serves as a pre-approved single entry visa for the worker to enter Singapore.
The employer must buy a security bond for non-Malaysian and medical insurance. When the worker arrives, they must complete a medical exam with any Singapore-registered doctor.
A request for issuing a Work Permit must then be made within 14 days (for non-Malaysians) or before the date stated on the IPA.
Upon receiving the notification letter, the worker must register their fingerprints and complete photo-taking at the MOM Services Center within a week. The Work Permit card will be delivered within four working days.
An approved Work Permit is usually valid for two years, with the possibility of renewal. However, the validity may be shorter depending on the worker’s passport expiry date and the duration of the security bond.
No, unless they upgrade their work permit to an S-Pass or EP.
All Passholders (e.g. Employment Pass, S-Pass, etc.) and Work Permit holders are eligible for a Singpass Account.
A Work Permit can be renewed six to eight weeks before it expires.
The processing time for a work permit is one week upon submission. However, in some cases, it might take more time.
The Immigration & Checkpoints Authority allows you to apply for a one-time 30-day Short Term Visit Pass extension.