Singapore Work Permits and Visas for Overseas Workers

Singapore is a major economic center in the South East Asia region. This is primarily because of the various economic incentives offered by the Singaporean government, which has encouraged investors both locally and from all parts of the world to invest in the country. On top of that, the Singaporean government does not prohibit foreigners from working in the country as long as you meet minimum requirements and possess the required skills.

Many people are moving to Singapore not only because of the demand for labor but also because Singapore is one of the best cities to work in. A diverse culture, good climate, security, and good living standards are some of the factors attracting foreign workers to Singapore.

Before moving to Singapore, it is critical to process the correct permits as there are several visa types you can qualify for. In this article, we give you a detailed guide on who qualifies for Singapore work permits and the various visa types available.

Singapore work permit or visa

Overseas workers moving to Singapore require an employment visa or work permit before they are allowed to work in the country. There are various work permits that you can qualify for depending on your experience and skills. These visas are valid for two years upon which they can be renewed on expiration. It is critical to note that you do not automatically become a permanent resident simply because you hold this visa.

Any qualified and skilled worker can apply for these permits either through the employer or appointed visa agencies like One Visa Pte Ltd.

Requirements for Singapore work permits or visa

The following conditions must be fulfilled before you apply for the employment visa.

You must be:

•         At least 18 years old;
•         A holder of a valid passport;
•         Qualified for the role you are applying for.

In addition, you are not allowed to engage yourself in a different role apart from the one you are allowed to practice. You should not involve yourself in a different business or even start your own.

The various types of employment visas you can qualify for

You must have a valid employment visa before you start working in Singapore. The Ministry of Manpower issues the following visa types depending on your role and experience:

•         Employment Pass: This visa is available for top-level skilled professionals earning at least $2,600 per month and having the required qualifications.
•         S Pass: This is available for mid-level skilled professionals earning a minimum of $1,700 per month and having passed the assessment for the role.

Singapore work permit fees

The fees for securing a Singapore work permit has risen over recent years. For the employment pass, you are required to pay $70 on application and $150 on issuance or renewal. For the S Pass, you will need to pay $60 on application and $80 on issuance or renewal.

How to apply

The company with which the employee is taking up payment applies for the visa on behalf of the employee. The employer can alternatively seek the services of an employment agent to assist with the application process.

The processes for applying for both the employment pass and S Pass are similar with the following documents attached to your application:

•         Written consent allowing your company or agent to apply for the visa on your behalf;
•         Copy of passport (only the personal information page) and other supporting documents;
•         Copies of academic certificates. These certificates must be verified if they were obtained from an institution that was not listed in the visa application form.

Upon submitting the application successfully, the visa will be processed within three weeks for online applications and eight weeks for manual ones.